Mazda MX-5 NC2 // Can the MX-5 be a long distance car?

[@Brockthedog315]

I have a 2010 grand touring PRHT with suspension and premium packages. My daily driver. Love going top down in the winter. My favorite car I’ve ever had and I’m over 60. Nice review.

[@JJonCars]

Brilliant, sounds a pretty much perfect car :) Thank you, and I like your username 😂

[@toshibavoodoo]

Exact with me!!

[@hollyibbotson5290]

I went for the 2016 all options version too as my retirement car. Spent all my life on motorcycles, so this was just perfect, about the same luggage space, and I can still see the sky. Rome next 😊.

[@yankee2yankee216]

Revving that car to redline is not abuse. That’s what it was made to do! That’s just one of the great things about the MX-5 Miata.

[@Thomas-z1y6s]

I have a 09 grand touring soft top 6 speed which I purchased new. I have owned many cars including sports cars. All in all for the price I can say for me this one is the best. This little sports car makes you smile as soon as you drive it. For those who luv cars it certainly has its place. The car talks to you especially thru twisty roads, like it is on rails. You do feel part of the car and the driving experience. Even after 15 years of ownership the car still gets waves and compliments. Yes it’s the biggest and the heaviest Mx-5 but for me it’s the best version. For those who love driving a sports roadster this is a great car. I never regret purchasing this car.

[@normanjohnson4648]

I have a 2007 GT which we just did a 12,000 km drive, over 24 days, across Canada and the upper US states. We found the NC a great long distance tourer with a few issues. The seats can get to be uncomfortable in long drives but we used cheap Obus Forme seat pads which worked perfectly. Secondly the amount of luggage you can carry is limited and custom made NC luggage is a must. The NC was dead reliable with no issues (we have 108,000 km on the car after the trip). Also the GT had A/C, heated seats and cruise control which on a long trip is almost a necessity. I'm 68 years old and quite rotund but I still found the car comfortable. We averaged 7.1 liters per 100km and found cruising at 120 kph the sweet point. This an exceedingly good touring car while still being a top down sportscar.

[@teebes2009]

I know my response is a year later, but I have a 2013 Grand Touring PRHT 6 speed which I bought new. This is my favorite car ever! My favorite drive is about 725 miles in about 11.5 to 12 hours in the western 7 US, top down. This seems to be my limit as I found another drive around 13 hours a bit much. Top down and I was still engaged, but I won't do that again. I am 67 years old now. Living the dream. 👍

[@funkingitup1805]

I drove the entire 469mi Blue Ridge Parkway over 3 days of the fall with the top down the entire time in 40F (5C) weather. The heater in the NC sucks compared to the earlier cars, but the seat heater mainly makes up for it. My biggest recommendation to any convertible owner is Icewear Gisla wool helmet (sherpa hat style). It's got fleece on the inside and 100% wool on the outside, and they don't even cost much. That along with some fleece lined pants and a down jacket, and you can get down to freezing and be warm top down.

[@Dollartrumpsign]

You're so calm and composed im gonna subscribe only to you now

[@JJonCars]

😂 Thanks!

[@njpaddler]

My 2014 prht with the premium packages took us on a 700 plus Mile Road Trip 3 weeks after buying it. I expanded our capacity by getting a vacuum cup trunk lid luggage rack. Given that we were at 70 mi an hour for hours in 80° weather the top stayed up in the AC was on so we used the empty space behind the seats for soft bags. It worked out perfectly we loved it we're comfortable cozy and kept switching drivers because the other one wanted to be having the fun. So to answer your question that titles this video, I believe I just did.

[@firedog93551]

Yes it can be a long distance car. I've spent about 8 hours in mine, we turned a 3 hour drive into an 8 hour drive. No issue and I've got modified suspension and aftermarket seats.

[@toshibavoodoo]

MX5 -2012 24hour tours through southwest national parks!! LOVE MY GT!!

[@americanjoe9767]

Once Miata always Miata. But cup holders on center is useless when you have manual. Still the best driver 👍🏻

[@JJonCars]

Haha, maybe that's why they put those cup holders in the new Miata where you can move them about :) Still as you say, great driving car, and not much time for drinking coffee :)

[@Rjhs001]

Brilliant little car. My wife has a 1.8 hard top and it's just fantastic fun as well as being economical, reliable and reasonably practical. Basically, all boxes ticked.

[@JJonCars]

I found myself wanting one after I drove it :)

[@Rjhs001]

@@JJonCars well JJ, one more thing in their favour is that you don't have to pay a lot of money for a really decent one.

[@JJonCars]

@@Rjhs001 yep. That won't remain true in my opinion, so now is the time :)

[@Eliza_daniel1]

What year is you wifes?

[@Rjhs001]

Well Daniels, she no longer has it but it was a 2010 with about 85k on the clock.

[@SHEERRAA]

I drive one as a daily 100 kilometers a day over autobahn. I absolutely love it and people love it aswell that see me in it! It's a great car. It just was extremely quiet by factory so u couldn't here any engine sound when reving with roof down. A sports exhaust fixes it and it also makes pops now :D

[@JJonCars]

Brilliant, nice to know I'm not talking rubbish! :)

[@jdm_pixel]

Great review, I owned a s super cheap NC1 GT PRHT for a few months but it was too big of a POS because of previous owners' neglect. Really wanna own another NC someday, hopefully an NC2/3!

[@JJonCars]

Haha, shame about it being a POS - I think some people forget that even these reliable cars actually need looking after

[@FJB8646]

My 2013 soft top club is an absolute blast on long trips. I take it from Michigan to Florida a few times a year with no issues at all. It’s about a 3000 mile round trip and as long as there’s no rain the top is down all the way there.

[@davidzyber7009]

I have a 2021 Grand Touring and have driven to Southern California from Michigan twice….5000 miles round trip. Had a blast both times😊

[@guidonthief]

I'm a big guy and I routinely take my NC on long trips with no discomfort. Mine is a soft top and I think the folding hardtop is not worth the weight and losing what little trunk space you have, and the folding and raising got really easy with the NC, takes one hand and can be done from the driver's seat. If you are planning on leaving the top up, don't forget the big storage tray under the back window, which is big enough for a couple of soft gym bags - but don't forget to empty it before you lower the top.

[@JJonCars]

I think the NC is the best MX-5 for bigger people! Only really realised that now I've tried both the ND and NB.

[@arightpest3367]

The hard top doesn’t take up any more space than the soft top. Mazda are the only car maker smart enough to design the roof without compromising storage no other car company does that without pinching space in the boot. The only space lost is the small storage spaces behind the seats.

[@jedigrawlfang]

I've had three soft-top MX5's; my latest is a hard-top and I would not go back - I know it weighs more, but it just feels more planted

[@sabio2009]

The PHRT doesn’t take any additional trunk space than the soft top. It fits in the exact same space as the soft top. No more…no less. Both types of tops fit between the cockpit & the trunk. The PHRT’s design & implementation is genius. Plus, the PHRT can’t be slashed open.

[@DoktrDub]

Just to let you know that the folding hard too has its own compartment, the trunk space is exactly the same as the rag top 😊

[@ianbradley2153]

I have the 25th anniversary edition with some mods and I love it,great car and awesome in the summer with the roof down and blasting through the twisties on a mountain pass😎

[@JJonCars]

Awesome :)

[@alanclark8837]

Great content as usual, I have just bought a 2007 NC 1.8 with 138000 miles on it, with full service history, I sold my motorbike to buy the car, because of all the thefts & muggings of motorcycles in my area, (Leeds) I decided it was no longer safe to own a motorcycle, I love the MX5, despite the mileage, it doesn't drive like it's done 138000 miles, & currently enjoying the experience of a folding roof Roadster. PS I still have the Astra 1.4 Turbo as my daily.

[@JJonCars]

Thank you Alan. A great couple of cars you have then. Stay safe dude and enjoy the MX-5, it's only just run-in with those miles 👍

[@ZacharySound]

I drove my '99 NB 3 hours each way between two cities several times a year. No issues.

[@JJonCars]

Nice one. The suspension on the NB is quite comfortable to be fair, and it still has the big fuel tank. I'm actually in the process of editing my review for the NB, so stay tuned for that :)

[@buijs1967]

Really nice hobby car, and i fit with 1.92mtr length😀For long distance driving the cruise control is more important than soft of hard top, there is not much difference between them and i think a softtop looks much better.

[@JJonCars]

It's cool that you can fit in one, they really made sure that almost anyone can fit :) That's a good point about cruise control!

[@alexfou3814]

1,92m? Well that s nice you for in one, i actually wondered i am 1,89m, and will soon get mine..so you are comfy enough?

[@johndon7384]

Love the hard top look up or down. Soft top looks a bit cheap. 😁

[@oldatarigamer]

Miatas are low, relatively stiff, and loud even with the hardtop -- it depends on your size, age and tolerance levels as to how comfortable it is over a long distance. The NC is easier to drive longer distances than the NA and NB that's for sure.

[@simongphotography]

I have a 2014 nc3, better than nc2, but I don't have a 50l tank, about 45l max. Get 33mpg from 2.0l and use it daily.

[@Miha-ii3dy]

The newest version of the MX5 is my dream car. Hope I'll be able to afford one some day.

[@JJonCars]

Oh yes, they do look fantastic, I hope I'll get one on the channel one day. I'm sure you will! And let's hope Mazda keep making new versions :)

[@Miha-ii3dy]

@@JJonCars They’d be crazy not to, considering how iconic these cars are 😃

[@JJonCars]

@@Miha-ii3dy True that!

[@BarryBethal-yv2oz]

This is a good unbiased review. Them seats look lovely

[@JJonCars]

Thanks Barry 👍

[@jedigrawlfang]

I agree, it's a good honest review; I love my 2010 1.8 NC2 PRHT version, it's much nicer than the 2007 NC soft-top I had before, and better built than the NB Nevada I had before that (I loved that car, but it was prone to rust unlike my current one) - I've had a lovely Cobra Race-type exhaust fitted to my current one (I had to after I heard the Cobra exhaust on the NB when I bought it)

[@deburred-947]

a treat to own - I commute in my 2006 1.8 about 80km several times a week. It's do-able and a hoot to drive. Treat yourself (tank isn't 50 litres btw). Be good!

[@JJonCars]

Nice. What size is it? Everywhere I've seen online says 50L :)

[@deburred-947]

@@JJonCars I usually go well into the red but never get more than 40 litres in when I fill up. I heard an interesting comment that the tank is indeed bigger but you never get to the last few litres because the outlet's designed to maintain a reserve that helps keep the pump cool. I'm not repeating that as fact by the way (YT being what it is!) Cheers, get the top down 👍

[@JJonCars]

Ah, interesting! Cheers :)

[@MG-id7hl]

I bought a 2007 MX5 literally last week. I discovered very quickly that a hat is vital for top down driving. So far, I'm loving it.

[@Eliza_daniel1]

Im looking at getting a 2007 1.8, as im 19 and insurance is higher on the 2.0. How is it? Does urs have the hard top?

[@ajpdaniels]

Good review but a couple of clarifications. I think they actually sold more PRHTs than soft tops. Agreed they are quieter (NC2 on particularly). I don't think the 6 speed are higher geared than the 5s - I think just closer ratio.

[@JJonCars]

Cheers! Didn't know that about the sales figures. Bit of both with the gearbox - the later NC2 had a higher 6th, but the original NC I think the 6th gear might have actually been lower geared than 5th in the 5 speed. I tried to clarify that with a box of text, but it's not easy without boring people to death 😂

[@kevincroft9848]

Nice one Cyril Cyril it's a great spots car . I want to buy one Cyril

[@JJonCars]

Thanks Cyril!

[@JohnCunningham-sy5ug]

I have had a NA really enjoyed it but have had two NC's enough more room and trunk space to travel more comfortably have traveled twice from Southern Michigan down the Blue Ridge to the smokies and did all parkways and skyway and Dragon had a Blast there is another color tour planned for this fall I park it for winter but it's my run around car spring though fall. No it's not a Cadillac. But it is way more fun for the road less traveled. Being retired I smell the rose's and the farmers barn yard on the way.😅 I should mention I installed a Goodwin muffler and it provides satisfying Music. ZOOM ZOOM 😊

[@JJonCars]

You sound like you're living the dream with your MX-5 :)

[@paulscot9417]

Looks very much like my 25th AE model👍

[@waddawa]

How about NC3? Does that have better cruising at 6th gear or is it same ratio than mt5?

[@fredonline]

All that was missing was Passenger Seat JJ - wearing a long blonde wig and Jackie Onassis sunglasses!

[@JJonCars]

😂 😂😂 He was messing about too much in the Mini, so he's relegated to the backseats again 😄

[@tmboosh]

You look like a magician.

[@JJonCars]

And for my next trick, I shall make the roof of this Mazda disappear...

[@tmboosh]

@@JJonCars haha class.... liked and subscribed.

[@ivorwm2291]

My buddy has a 2012 Grand Touring. He drove it 254k miles before it developed and oil leak and died. RIP Moriah Miata

[@JJonCars]

That's a very good innings. RIP

[@ivorwm2291]

Update! My friend bought a new 2022 Grand Sport Retractable Fastback. He gave me the 2012. Moriah is going to get a new engine!

[@geoffhudson5017]

Hmm. If Moray Callum designed the fabrication details/contruction process then I wouldn't trust him to design a paper bag. The number of serious water traps are huge. The rear crash structure is bolted to the tub and THEN painted... ergo it moisture traps and rots out in no time. Yes, it's a lovely car - I have one (NC3) that I love to bits, but I reckon his guide dog could have done a better job with the fabrication/parts layout. Oh yes, with regard to the storage capacity of the car, your review missed about 8% of it. Fold the seat backs forward and you'll find another pair of cubby holes. I guess YOUR guide dog was not present!

[@queroever]

I think the cubby holes behind the seats exist only in the soft top model.

[@JebChode]

Sweet car 😀

[@JJonCars]

It sure is LancashireDashcam!

[@julianhawkins9423]

With a naturally aspirated engine I thought you got your power through the rev range and a turbo you get all your power or 70% of it 😀

[@JJonCars]

Yeah something like that 👍

[@Dudeman9339]

the suspension difference between the NC1 and NC2 is almost literally the same as going from the NB to the ND. Skip the NC1 if you are looking for one of this.

[@njonesyauto]

I test drove a 2012 1.8 with 77k miles yesterday, and I’ve never had so much joy from a car. I get why people call it “slow car fast” now. I’m not gonna be able to sleep till I get one now 🤣 Also what are your thoughts on one with that high mileage?

[@JJonCars]

Yes, slow car fast is right! I was driving the previous generation 1.6, absolutely foot to the floor up a hill, having a great time with all the noise of the engine and wind in my hair.... and behind me some sort of Kia SUV was casually gaining on me 😂 Well, Mazda build very reliable solid engines, so engine wise, mileage shouldn't be a problem. Main thing is how it has been cared for, and of course, checking for rust!

[@njonesyauto]

@@JJonCars this one seemed to be in great condition, clearly has been taken care of. Stunning white colour with black alloys. The dealer even stores it inside a garage which is even better

[@themancuniancandidate2744]

I have a 2007 hardtop, which suits the climate here in Western Australia down to a tee. The leather seats...not so much, unless sweaty thighs are your thing. But with our 300 days of sunshine a year, mine spends most of its time with the roof down, and taking it for a blast to the local wine regions is one of life's great pleasures. I'm 6ft and fit into it with ease. After about 2 hours it starts to get a bit "shall we stop for a leg stretch?", but hey I'm 54; I get that in my Saab 9-5 too.

[@JJonCars]

What a great combo of cars :)

[@themancuniancandidate2744]

@@JJonCars Especially when the 9-5 is tuned to over 300bhp and 340lb ft of torque but looks stock. It's surprised quite a few Golf R and WRX owners.

[@泰-q3g]

Thank you Lotus thank you Elan！

[@cruiserbrahuk5411]

I'd buy one if it wasn't for the rust issues which plague even the newest MX5's. I like to buy a car and own it for a good 5 or more years, impossible with an MX5 without the arches or hidden centre support under the engine rusting to pieces

[@jolkraeremeark6949]

Hmmmm, lots and lots of them around with many years gone by and high mileage. Where do you live that it is so detrimental to the automobile?

[@cruiserbrahuk5411]

England@@jolkraeremeark6949

[@chrischalkley3630]

You missed the 2 storage holes behind the seats.

[@jubbaronny]

They are on the soft tops only as that space is for when the hard top is down.

[@jubbaronny]

I’ve got the same Kuro (Kyoo-ro), but in white with the black accents and decals that i see are missing on the video. I bought it new 10 years ago and been all over Europe in it.

[@JJonCars]

Oh, so that's how you pronounce it, makes sense. Nice one.

[@jubbaronny]

​@@JJonCars It won't be going anywhere again the little shit, it broke down on me in southern Portugal last summer with an intermittent misfire. It's now been under continuous care with 2 garages for the last 7 months (the first garage gave up after 6 months), and they still can't nail down the cause.

[@aaronobrien7821]

Deciding been one of these and a BMW z4 e85 3.0. pro and and cons to both hmm

[@JJonCars]

I'm yet to drive a E85, so can't help you too much there. Good luck :)

[@miskatali6868]

Bro what is the price of this car

[@harrysrcchannel5651]

nice car. i really want a mx5 but the nc 1 is ugly. i prefer the nb2 or the nc2 with the biggest engine, of course 6 speed a heated seats 😀

[@key_b4528]

I'm 1.90. Will I fit in the car?

[@JJonCars]

I'm 184 and there was lots of room for me to put the seat further back. I think you will be fine, but of course I recommend a test drive first just to be sure!

[@alexfou3814]

There s a guy above who is 1,92 and seems fine, I am 1,89m and will get one soon, did you get yours since?

[@deljules1383]

I've got a Porsche 911 and an MX5 and in both cars I get that Nod and i hate it 🤷🏾‍♂️

[@JJonCars]

Haha, why?

[@antoniss1992]

If you are alone..maybe.. if you have a girl with you.. absolutely not!

[@RobustArid379]

Little dinky engine, if it was a 2.8L then everyone would have it

[@JJonCars]

I'm not sure about that - its kinda the point of the car that it has a small, light engine :)