RF vs. Soft Top MX-5 Miata - Pros, Cons, and why I chose the Soft Top!

[@JamesPlaysWithCars]

Are you Team RF or Team Soft Top? Comment below!!

[@nd2fast]

Team RF, sorry! 😜

[@JamesPlaysWithCars]

@@nd2fast Nuuuuu

[@Greggory1987]

Team RF all day long :)!!

[@waynekempton7160]

It seems that you chose the soft top over the RF for all the same reasons I did. We live in southern California near the beach and having a garage. I think the soft top looks better than the RF with the top down and we seldom have occasion to drive with the top up. Plus, we were buying a 2019 Gt-s and the only Gt-s within 500 miles of our house was a soft top... and, happily, in my wife's favorite color, the Soul Red Crystal Metallic.

[@JamesPlaysWithCars]

@@waynekempton7160 That's a fantastic spec--I was intending to get a GT-S at first but then found an amazing deal on a Club/Brembo/BBS and got that one instead. And yes, SoCal + garage is a perfect combo for getting a soft top!

[@Lulumaikalani]

RF fan here. Just got a 2021 GT manual in Deep Crystal Blue. LOVE it so much! I’m a 73 year-old granny that loves ripping around in that gorgeous little car. Used to have an RX-8 years ago & I thought that was fun......but this is the most fun I’ve ever had! It’s so hot!

[@JamesPlaysWithCars]

Love it!! I hope to still be zipping around in a little sports car when I'm 73 as well!

[@northcackalacky4694]

Ecd You rock! Mazda red is also really Hot! I'd go with white

[@Lulumaikalani]

@@northcackalacky4694 I really considered red, but was told by a couple people at my dealership that it is susceptible to chipping due to the layers of paint used to achieve that color. Don’t really understand that, but I’m thrilled with what I got. They had a red one available exactly like the blue, so it’s not like I was having my arm twisted to go for the blue. White is not available, at least for this year, in the RF. I’ve had it since the middle of June - love it so much! Makes me feel 18 again!

[@EjinRenos]

@@Lulumaikalani this is untrue. The red just shows it more readily cause of a white base coat of paint. All Mazdas. All colors. All models. Same problem. It's their new paint method with some thin waterbased paint. And this isn't just Mazda. Most Japanese automakers suffer this as well as some American. European oddly still seems solid.

[@juliuspaolocabarles9941]

I smiled reading this.😊

[@vlj1133]

The RF looks better with the top up. The soft top looks better with the top down, and top-down driving is the main reason most people buy a Miata. The RF has three main advantages: parking lot security (thieves can't simply cut the top open to get into the cabin); long-term durability; a (very slightly) quieter cabin with the top up. The soft top has these advantages: a much better top-down driving experience, since it's a true convertible and not just a coupe with a hole in the roof; much less noisy wind buffeting with the top down; more headroom; none of the RF's massive blind spots and claustrophobic feeling with the top down; much faster to put the top up or take it down; weight reduction equivalent vs the RF of driving solo vs having a passenger; slightly quicker acceleration; costs thousands less. Honestly, the only solid reason for getting the RF is if one has to park the car outside every day, either at home or work. Then, sure, I wouldn't want to expose the soft top to thieves, and, especially, the elements. Perhaps if one lives in Seattle or Portland, where the top will probably need to be up more often than not since it's always raining, sure, the RF also makes sense there. Excepting those two scenarios, the soft top is superior the vast majority of the time one is behind the wheel. Bottom line, unless one prioritizes top-up driving over top-down driving, which is anathema to the entire MX-5 experience, then the soft top is the superior option for most people. One would really have to value that top-up look in order to forego the far greater number of advantages the soft top brings to the table.

[@bariton3779]

I live in an area with intense sun, extreme heat and cold, and high precipitation without a garage. I almost got the soft top until I saw this video. It was super helpful and well put together, nice job!

[@JamesPlaysWithCars]

Glad it helped!

[@dlg5485]

I am planning to buy a 2021 MX-5 RF Club and, although the soft top is a bit lighter and offers slightly better visibility, the RF is better in every other way, in my opinion. I like that it's secure and can't be cut open. I like that it's a much quieter with the top up. This car will be my year-round daily driver and I spend a lot of time on the highway, so minimizing sound intrusion is important to me. The RF also looks WAY sexier than the soft top to my eye. The $3000 price differential is a lot, but I've waited a long time to make this purchase and will be keeping this car forever, so the extra expense isn't a huge factor. The bottom line is that you can't go wrong either way because the MX-5 in either configuration is a special car and will bring you miles of smiles!

[@JamesPlaysWithCars]

100% agree that both are awesome, but RF is definitely more practical for daily driving. Enjoy your MX-5!!!

[@AlisoViejoMan]

Where the hell do you live where you got to worry about it being cut open? Don't you have a garage?

[@dlg5485]

​@@AlisoViejoMan Of course but if you actually drive your vehicle, it's not always going to be locked away. Duh!

[@EnochLight]

@@AlisoViejoMan - why would you think everyone has a garage??! And you can get your soft top cut by anyone anywhere - doesn't matter the neighborhood. In fact, nicer neighborhoods are where the criminals shop. Don't ask such judgemental questions.

[@le0redd104]

A smart criminal just breaks the window. lol in a matter of under a minute, all your stuff is gone, so be sure you'll have a garage for the Miata if you know you don't live in a good neighborhood

[@chadex77]

So I have owned both. I bought the first generation ND in club model with the softtop and recently bought a 2021 RF GT. For me the top down experience in the soft top is better but I prefer the security and quietness of the hardtop!

[@scottanthony3426]

Good info from a guy who has owned both. I test drove the soft top. At the time, it needed to be my daily and weekend, so that meant a chunk of interstate and it wasn't going to work for me (ended up with a BRZ). But even in soft top, the "top down" experience felt more like a tee top because with the high door sills and tall seats behind me, it just didn't feel super "open" like you would in something with a back seat. But the top mechanism is brilliant. So easy to put up and down. Now that my fun car doesn't need to be a daily, I'll have more options on the next go-round. Still enjoying the BRZ though, although I'm always gawking when I see a Miata.

[@t.k.morris]

@@scottanthony3426 Do you like the BRZ as much as the Miata RF? (not considering trunk space)

[@scottanthony3426]

@@t.k.morris I have not driven a RF. Now that I've had the BRZ several years, it would be interesting to hop into a RF. I do like the convenience of being able to put my jacket in the back seat (between the seats, so I can grab on the way out.) I don't like wearing a jacket when I drive, but live in the rain belt, so it needs to be kept handy. If I'm alone, I can use the passenger side, but when I have a passenger, that doesn't work. I was a bit tall for the soft top, in that it felt like my line of sight was a bit obstructed by the bar atop the windshield. The sightlines out the BRZ are pretty open to the front and if you get the seat on the lower side, all I see are the fender blisters.

[@t.k.morris]

@@scottanthony3426 I went today and checked out the Miatas. Soft top had a little more room than the RF, but I need more room for sure. I am about 6'1" and I had to squiggle in the car, kind of like playing the game twister. Once seated, it felt great like custom fitted into a race car.

[@meme3239]

The best car I have ever owned. I've had 5 over the years and haven't had not one car problem in over 20 years.If your looking for a car that is dependable and will never break down.... This is the the car you will definitely want.

[@melissamcgillivray]

Team soft top! Soft top owner for over 20 years and multiple Miata versions. I wouldn’t dream of anything else. I like the ease of dropping the top. I like the look better and it just feels more like a roadster. I haven’t had any issues with noise or temperature change (I do live in Southern California). Taking care of the top hasn’t been an issue for me. I have covered parking and a car cover if needed. Con I have had assholes break into my car. In twenty years on two occasions my roof has been cut. Both times replaced the top. It is a pain in the ass and a custom job. Pro. On both occasions the custom top has been much higher quality than the stock version.

[@midlifemotors5050]

RF for me too fella. Way more benefits here in Scotland where the winters can be quite harsh!! Great video as usual 👍

[@f.d.6667]

Soft top. No question. 5k cheaper, lighter, lower center of mass, much better situational awareness (top down) and the conversion takes under 3 seconds!

[@danh.5825]

I went with the soft top. My primary goal is to have the best top down driving experience. The targa style RF just doesn't feel the same. This is also a 2nd car and I have a garage, so the advantages of the RF are minimal.

[@scdbrown]

Bought a 21 base sport manual soft top soul red a year ago.. what a crazy value at $26,000.. many of your cruiser bikes will be more than that.. it’s the perfect 2nd car.. so much fun

[@JustinDoesTriathlon]

This was a great video. I think you and I are exactly aligned. I recently test drove both and I'm FULLY on the soft top side. I think the RF looks better than the ST with the top up, but the ST with the top down looks the best out of all of them. Like you said, the ST with the top down is fully wide open; seemed like the RF wasn't actually that open feeling. Also, maybe it's my seating position, but the RF B pillar seemed huge. Luckily I also have a garage and this would be my second as well. But yeah, the ST with top down is just fantastic. Thanks for the vid!

[@JamesPlaysWithCars]

Thanks Justin. Glad you enjoyed the video... and more importantly, glad you enjoyed driving the ST with the top down!

[@Dan-xj9vd]

The MX-5 ND2 is my 3rd car in my garage and It took me at least 7 months to make my mind to finally buy a 2019 Soul Red Crystal MX-5 RF GSP (canadian Club version). At first I wasn't convice to buy a convertible but after trying different MX-5 models and colors (int/ext), I felt in love with this one for 2 main reasons other the fun factor. 1st reason, the climate. I live in Canada and having a hard top extends my fun to the maximum by driving this car from March to December (garage queen during winter). 2nd reason, the head turn factor. That car is not a Ferrari but at least once a week when I park at the store (even on traffic lights) I am getting ask what is that car and how great looking it is. Top up or top down, this car just looks great and exotic for a tenth of the price of a Ferrari! It never happened before to me with a soft top version.

[@JamesPlaysWithCars]

Dan, totally agree re: the RF's ability to be driven in more weather conditions and the exotic look of the RF top. It really does look like very few other cars on the road.

[@ag4allgood]

I could NEVER put my MX-5 Club soft top away for the winter ! Winter tires transform the car into a great handling fun to drive car. The 50 / 50 weight balance is a big help.

[@v10mclaren]

If you had to park your car outdoors would you have still chosen the soft top? I love the mx5 but I am really struggling between the two. Love your videos.

[@JamesPlaysWithCars]

Thanks v10mclaren! If I had to park outdoors I’d choose RF. It would stress me out too much to know the soft top is baking outside under the sun haha

[@jag1963]

I have the soft top. I insisted on it. I drove the RF and it felt like a regular car with a large sunroof. The softop brings the outside to me. I'm able to garage mine and the noise doesnt trouble me at all. I'll replace this in a few years and again it will be a soft top.

[@CalmingSoundZZZ]

Just found your channel. Thanks for this great break down. I like the look of the RF so it's probably RF for me.

[@aperson5062]

I have owned two ND RF's and put 40k miles on the first one. I have never heard wind "Buffeting" in either car at any speed. I have heard lots of wind noise, but not the thud thud thud some cars give you with just one windows open or something that I consider buffeting. There is a gushing noise. If you drop the windows about an inch it does seem to quiet a wind noise coming from the intersection of the windows and the cross bar at highway speeds. Second, if it is a weekend toy, soft top for the convertible fun. If it is a daily driver, the extra quietness on the highway, security, and all weather capability make the RF a good choice. Certainly if you daily drive New England winters like I do.

[@pegsy]

This video has made the decision even harder for me! You've pushed me towards the soft top, but I haven't got a garage. Damn.

[@Greggory1987]

I own a 2020 Tesla Model X and a 2021 Miata RF which I LOVE as my daily driver. It took me a 2 months to decide between the soft top and RF. But I fell in love with the security, the looks and styling of the RF. Though the cost was around $45, 000 for the RF Grand Touring....still well worth the investment.

[@JamesPlaysWithCars]

Wow, Miata as daily driver when you have a Model X! That's awesome

[@Greggory1987]

Thanks man :)!

[@CapFlipGaming]

@@Greggory1987 45k? I assume you're up in Canada?

[@Greggory1987]

@@CapFlipGaming Nope, San Francisco.

[@jackanderson2773]

@@Greggory1987 Should be 40,000 OTD or so .

[@AquaDaz1]

Brilliant review. I have looked for years to answers to my questions and you just nailed it. Brilliant editing. Great video ❤

[@althor5550]

I would go soft top. Price of course. But also the quickness of dropping the top, even while driving, is nice. Finally the soft top has a deeper "glove box" and 2 cubby spaces behind the seats as apposed to 1 in the RF. There ain't a lot of room in a Miata so extra space is nice. I agree the RF looks subjectively better, but the soft top is the true roadster!

[@thefallinglink]

I test drove both the soft and hard top back-to-back and preferred the soft top for the following reasons: The soft top can easily be thrown up and down even while moving in about 2 seconds as opposed to the RF's 15 second wait time, so I am more inclined to actually put the top down when I want to The soft top has slightly more headroom than the RF. I'm 6'3" and that extra little bit of space made all the difference. While the RF has less road/wind noise with the top up, on the highway at higher speeds the RF with the top down has significantly more wind noise than the soft top. The RF with the top down does not have the sort of visibility or feel that I am familiar with and prefer in a convertible.

[@MrLvpl]

I'm 6' 3" as well and considering getting one of these. Have you felt cramped since you bought it? Looking at this as a daily driver.

[@ag4allgood]

I have a 2016 Club soft top with the Brembo / BBS package in Artic White. I bought it in the 1st week of March 2017. The RF's were just being shipped to dealers & they were all sold BEFORE they even got driven off the trucks ! There were no deals on them either as MSRP sticker was THE price. I think the soft top does quite well as a daily driver & in 4 season Northern Illinois my thoughts were its comprimised. Well that was wrong. Use the 303 Kit with the cleaner every car wash ( manual only ) with a soft bristle brush & it keeps the top in great shape. Also the 303 Fabric Guard used in the fall one time keeps a nice waterproof finish on the top. Ice & snow have not effected the top. Truly a well designed car that handles even the bad weather days. I left my car stock height so any snow fall under 6 inches is fine. Over that I'll wait for the plows to come before heading to work. Never had the chance to test drive an RF but just by hearing the extra cost / weight / open top noise / reduced vision not a fan ! One thing I do look out for is never parking under trees. I use a sun shade in summer & winter I'll walk the extra steps to keep away from the trees. Leaves / twigs / seeds can plug the top drains causing interior water leaks. Never had one so far by following my rule.

[@normawright292]

I have the 2019 Sport soft top in soul red with black ragtop, black rims and mirrors. It's a badass little car and I love, love it! I wanted a true convertible and the RF is not a true convertible - to me it's like a T-top and those side wings impede your view. Definitely happy with my soft top and glad to be part of the Miata family!!!

[@richardshiggins704]

I think I would go for the RF purely for security reasons and more resistant to vandalism (car parked on street). As a resident of Northern Europe where the weather is damp and cold I feel more insulation is provided by the RF . I always think that the RF is like a miniature Corvette Stingray Coupe of the 60s . The other reason I would buy the Rf is to behold the slick retractable mechanism of the roof ; origami in motion !

[@darren1922]

I had a 2019 ND2 RF Club. Loved it. But sold it so I can upgrade to one with the Recaro/BBS package. Waiting for my next RF....inventory is low right now.

[@gregorybarton5639]

In my 2020 FT GT, there is no buffeting noise. There is a removable plastic optics int he back, I never took it out so maybe its different without it. I prefer the look of the RF and the Targa type top works for me. People have different tastes and needs, this why they make it in multiple configurations. Ive driven sports cars, stick shift since the age of 16 (53 now). In 2006, I even special ordered a BMW 5 series in stick shift. Only one I ever saw. I had Twin Turbo 300Zx's, Mitsubishi 300GT, Porsche 911 and others. For some reason, I think this is the most fun car of all of them. it feels so refined and high end, just makes me want to drive. Love this little car.

[@Thom-Tru]

I’ve got a 2020 RF and love it. I’ve found the buffeting sound is only prevalent when going 65 or more with the windows down. I raise the windows whenever I get on the highway and have great time.

[@EjinRenos]

I've only found that sound to happen in higher speed winds that blow crosswind while driving. Going against or in the same direction of the wind, the noise is the same as the softtop.

[@EnochLight]

@@EjinRenos - not with the windows up.

[@EjinRenos]

@@EnochLight Well... no. But who puts a top down and rolls the windows back up unless they're on a call?

[@dannygriffith6185]

When I bought my Miata ( 2009 GT) , there were two choices also. The PRH ( power retractable hardtop) & it was about $ 1700. more. I also chose soft-top &am happy I did. Mine has been pampered in a garage for 14 years & is in excellent condition. Kelley Bluebook still values it between 10 &12 K! That's pretty remarkable

[@Dave-sw2dm]

The RF is beautiful! If I was buying a soft top I would probably look for a clean last year NC for the extra room and better seats.

[@waynekempton7160]

Like you, James, I chose the soft top over the RF in our 2019 GT-S. And for most of the same reasons. Since I live in California, the weather does not require me to get an RF. Since I garage my car, no need for the additional protection. If it seems to me that the area I am going is a little sketchy and I might worry about the roof getting slashed, I just drive one of our cars with a solid roof. I like it that it is a "true" convertible rather than a Targa-type, because I almost always drive with the top down.

[@iiimik3]

Soft top all the way! On another note, I wanted to share that I just bought an ND2 and your videos definitely played a roll in my decision to do it. Super stoked on the car and appreciate the info you've shared! Many thanks from another California boy haha

[@kenster865]

I have a 2020 100th Anniversary version which only came with the soft top. I have to park it outside as I have a 2021 LT1 Camaro in my garage. I tried parking both in my 2-car garage but the Camaro takes up too much room. It's a bigger car than you'd think.... As a result the Miata gets to stay in my driveway. I avoid 98-99% of the weather issues that would damage the soft top and the paint with a hi-quality custom-fit car cover! I get mine from Cover King which is near me in Anaheim, CA. They aren't cheap but they do an amazing job in keeping your car pristine even when it rains which it has been doing a lot of in SoCal here in January, 2023. I have found that spending several hundred $$'s on a well-made custom car cover is the hot ticket to preserve your baby if you can't or don't have access to a garage. 👍👍

[@statik47]

Wow! Thanks for that insight! I totally forgot about car covers! Now I'm back to square one as to which I should get....😕

[@johnyaskoveakarpaccio4737]

sell the camaro,pocket alot of cash keep the mx-5(less headaches),then garage the mx-5 with ample garage-space left over

[@tomc8854]

2019 Soft top❗️, bought it new zero options 24 G best bang for the buck out there. RF might be OK for a cold climate but it’s really just a power targa , totally different experience.

[@stevem9603]

I agree! I also have a soft top as a secondary car that I bought this year and I drive with the top down 90 percent of the time. Better looking, lighter, and easier to put the top down. I had a Mercedes SLK 320 hardtop convertible for 13-years. Loved the car, not as fun to drive as the MX-5 (had auto trans) but when the hydraulics started to fail when lowering the top, VERY expensive to repair. MX-5 was the perfect replacement and significantly less expensive.

[@jeffatturbofish]

Keeping in mind that I came from a NC with a PRHT, I picked my new ND2 [same color even!] with a soft top. Faster, lighter = more fun

[@markh5892]

I’m on my third Miata. Unfortunately, I don’t have a garage so all of them have had issues with stains, etc. on the soft top over the years. My current one has a Beige top which is stained with black mildew spots. I’ve used every imaginable type cleaner but nothing really gets it all out. Bottom line is I’m getting ready for another Miata but this time, it’ll be an RF regardless of the pros & cons. What’s 13 seconds to put it up & down plus it’s cool as Hell how it folds up in & out. I’m done with ugly looking soft tops. There really are no cons with a Miata. I’m 61 and bought my first generation Miata back in 1991 when I was a much younger man of 31. I will always have one as they’re absolutely phenomenal cars. Just sayin……

[@JamesPlaysWithCars]

Awesome to hear from a 30-year Miata fan. Definitely sounds like you're a good candidate for the RF. If you get one, enjoy it!

[@jackanderson2773]

I'm on my second - ND2 soft top . If I re - did things would have got a hard top . You're one with the car when you drive them ! New one seems safer and a bit less squirrely than my 03 .

[@lincolnadmirer]

I'm 60 and am over a year and a half into my 3rd Miata. Bought the first one in 1991. If you test drive both versions, the familiarity is with the Soft Top.

[@t.k.morris]

What color scheme are you getting on the new RF?

[@gregblack4581]

The last generation of Miata had the phrt . This top was perfect . I have a rf now but it’s not as good a top as the phrt was .

[@t.k.morris]

After a hard nights sleep trying to decide which version that I wanted to buy, I came up with an entirely different choice. I am going with the Mazda3 Premium Hatch with a manual. I just got to have more room and my wife doesn't want to even ride in the Miata. It will be my car but if she won't ride in it, that would defeat my purpose since I am now retired. And I have to travel to see some of my family. The Miata would not hold all the luggage and gifts we normally take. But due to market conditions, price and availability, I will probably not get one right away. Maybe another nights sleep to think more about it! I have a Honda ST1300 v4 motorcycle to ride so that gives me plenty of outside air time, but I dare not travel with it any more nowadays. Love the conversation here though.

[@gchin6916]

Owned Miatas ( each generation) for 27+ years, I don’t live in an area that has majority of warm weather, I get all 4 seasons, including lots of snow and drive year round including in snow, love the handling and sporty feel. All my prior Miata (gen 1-3, ‘90, ‘99 and ‘09) were all soft top with detachable hardtop. I chose the RF for my location. Have a ‘17 RF LE & ideal and yes it’s true the ST does take a beating if parked outdoor, and hard to keep clean, I had the tan ST, and it was hard to take stains out. RF top is super easy to keep clean. As for the Wind buffering is in both types ST and RF if you have windows up on the highway. The ST with top down has way too much cabin wind turbulence and OEM windscreen is useless and I’ve installed aftermarket windscreen (taller ones to be tad over seatback) and works great. Noise in the ST is much louder and RF is more sound insulated and more ridget than ST. I notice on prior gen with the detachable hardtops the body had less flex.

[@shiftintohigh5564]

I would not say my ND1 is loud on the road. Its livable and driveable. Its a 2nd tho. Yes, agreed the RF has to be quieter. And, I agree with you on the astetciics of soft tops vs RF. Great review!👍👍😎🇺🇸

[@ahgongchiu2213]

I still have a 2002 NB for over 20 years and love the top down moments. Today I just bought a 2021 ND Sport and I chose a soft top for easy manual operation, nothing to break, so nothing to fix until I need a new top.

[@t.k.morris]

How long did the 2002 soft top last?

[@Mazda-mx5-dutch-driver-ND2015]

Haha glad to hear you choose the soft top, i already owning for 2 years now, an beautiful ND 1.5 TS+ and its so good. But before i bought this one, i tested it out the RF, and its alsoo to powerfull and like you said, its not an real convertible looking car... i mean its an targa convertible, im just like you, so happy having this beauty ND... and above mine has the red color that mazda always advertising the ND. Greetings from the Netherlands, and some flash lights and honking from mine little cadilac, and above all, have fun everyday in ur beautiful Miata!

[@ivanvelez7668]

ok i have a question. Is the soft top safe when it comes to snow. I ask cause im located in NJ and I dont have a garage to park the miata and winter here we get snow and sometimes i think the soft top would cave in if there would be a blizzard or is the soft top strong enough to hold such amount of snow. I do see that the soft top is a much easier use as far as timing goes when it comes to opening and closing rather than the 13 second wait for the hard top to open or close. I saw a commercial but not sure where if it was on tv or the internet but it was a commercial advertisement of a car cover that removes the snow completely off of the car when removing the cover and ready to drive. I thought hey thats a neat tool. And you can take the cover everywhere and cover the car if its still snowing. You know how they announce on the news, the radio that reminds people to clean the snow off your car before driving.

[@MikaBeeF]

If weight and center of mass is being discussed with the RF, then yaw and rigidity of the chassis shoudl be discussed too, cause a solid connection over the roof can improve yaw and handling by a noticable amount.

[@ursulabklyn_mia6148]

Very helpful comparison. I live in Florida. I don't have to worry about winter temps and have a garage. I like the soft top because it has less rear view obstruction. Thank you.

[@JamesPlaysWithCars]

Absolutely - with the ST top down, I agree that the openness of the cabin towards the rear is just awesome!

[@williamcallaway2228]

It’s been said before, but the soft top looks better with the top down and is more fun to drive with the top down. BUT the RF looks better with the top up and is not as fun to drive. You’re final point is a good one…if you have this car as a second/weekend car, then some of these factors and how we prioritize them change. I sold my 2018 soft top Club and so miss it. Just a big Mazda fan, now driving the ‘21 CX 30 Premium.

[@peterlewis3540]

You buy the RF for added security, and appearance, otherwise, the full soft top convertible is the best option. Its cheaper to buy either new, or on the second hand market, and really the whole point of owning an MX5 is for the full open top sports car experience, There's no doubt the RF looks magnificent, and looks stunning from every angle, and that electric folding roof mechanism, is a masterpiece of design, but none of this really matters. When the sky is a beautiful clear blue, and its baking hot outside, you want to roll down the side windows, and pull the roof down completely, and just cruise along without a care in the world. I can see the point of the RF, but when you have owned a opened topped British Sports car in the distant past ( a lovely rust bucket of a Triumph Spitfire) you just have to go with the full open topped experience, less to go wrong, and much cheaper to repair if things do go astray.

[@islandon22]

Love the RF styling...simply stunning. But to have the soft top is to have a true Miata Roadster. The top is a one finger operation. Albeit, a bit hot in the Mojave summer, but a total joy in these mountains towering over your head. Try it sometime.👍

[@customsoft2010]

James, excellent review. If I could make one additional (relevant) point it would be that those of use who live in colder climates (I'm from Canada), there are not many days where it is possible to drive with the top down, due to the weather. For those of who do not live in sunny California, an RF version is a must. Again great review James. Thank you for that.

[@n3m3sis03]

Also too, there's a privacy factor that comes with the RF vs. soft top. I personally chose the RF because of that reason. I can have the top down and not have other drivers able to see every inch of my interior.

[@aldosalthren]

I'm picking up my RF in 2 days - my girlfriend has the "practical car" of our couple if we ever need to fit more than 2 people and a backpack, but the miata is still going to be my daily driver. Living in new england and having street parking makes the RF almost a requirement.

[@robd7409]

I have a question. You mentioned the battering noise created by the open top. I wanted to ask, does this happen only when the side windows are up, or even when they are rolled down?

[@apurugganan]

Thank you James. Isn't there an after market add-on that could minimize the wind noise that the RF makes --I am just curious. Thank you for the insight re wind noise and I *just love* that you compared it to my favorite (vintage) Ferrari California!)

[@JamesPlaysWithCars]

Hi Andy, I didn’t know about the wind noise reducing products you mentioned but I searched on Google and yes, it turns out they do exist! Glad you enjoyed the video 👍🏼

[@rossotoro3095]

That was the sincere video I was looking for! Thank you! Great job!

[@maxcactus7]

I'm about to purchase my first new car, ever, and it's going to be a 2021 MX-5. This was extremely helpful, thanks, James! I still think I want to test drive each with the top "down" so I can experience the difference firsthand, however. Great channel you have. I hope to see you on the road sometime in So Cal!

[@JamesPlaysWithCars]

Awesome!! Enjoy your MX-5!

[@PhilipOII247]

Get the RF man!

[@lincolnadmirer]

I'm Team Soft Top. My 2020 Club is my 3rd Miata. When considering the trade-in of my 2008 Soft Top, I really thought I was going in to buy the RF. After driving them, the decision to go with the Soft Top was an easy one.

[@buzzcrushtrendkill]

Thanks for objective review. It helps me make a more informed decision.

[@warrenandyiching]

Great video. I personally bought an RF. One, because there’s no way my would have let me buy the soft top and Two, living in Portland, OR means rain six months a year. Since I often have to drive the car with the roof up, the increased quietness, stability, and security were mandatory for me.

[@devincutting3198]

All great points, I have some things to add if I may… I have a Gladiator as a second vehicle and honestly with a fiberglass roof you hear everything; if you’re someone who gets bothered by wind noise then you shouldn’t be looking into a convertible (no matter the type) to begin with 😂 As for weather protection, if it’s your baby and you want to keep things as close to perfect as possible…. Invest in a really durable cover for the whole car. It’s well worth it, especially if you like in a colder climate like I do. This also helps keep things as clean as possible so maintenance is a breeze. With vehicle this small you want to be driving much more carefully because you’ll be more difficult to spot right off from other drivers, especially if you’re behind much bigger vehicles as an example, but while to RF is great, you have huge blind spots that can make things a bit more squirrely All these things are my opinion and everyone is able to refute them if they wish, but I just thought I’d add my two cents

[@Chuchu_ETV]

I was convinced I needed an rf, but now I can't "unsee" how much better the soft top looks with the top down..

[@mrtboy]

Love the soft top when it’s open, but I live in a predominantly wet place so the RF provides that open top thrill on fine days but the security and weather proofing on wet days, I have never had buffeting as such, however ther is a bit of roar just behind you at the top of the buttresses, nothing that can’t be helped by cranking the radio and remembering you are in the best sports car you can get for the money

[@db8980]

You covered it all - points really well thought out. Especially the nagging feeling of extra weight up high in the RF. One reason I like the soft top better too. But I hesitate to buy one, even though I've wanted an ND for years. I park outside at work and what you said about cleaning the cloth, and how it degrades in the sun, kind of worries me. I've never owned a soft top so I have no idea how long they last when exposed to the elements.

[@JamesPlaysWithCars]

DB, thanks for watching! Whether you decide to go for soft top or RF (or a different fun commuter car altogether) I hope you enjoy your ride!

[@dharmabenincasa5515]

Get a car cover that’s breathable and water resistant will do the trick

[@rjdavis7503]

Good points to bring up. I also have the RF and like it more for the things you mentioned.

[@dsat1908]

This video was made for m. I had a 2016 soft top Miata club version. I traded that in on an RF 2020 grand touring. I agree with all of your pros for the RF and I agree with the noise factor but let me add one more thing. IF you could drop that top from the key fob that would’ve been a huge advantage. But as I’m sure you aware that is not an option. you have to be in the car with the car running. I’m older and a little heavier and with the soft top I was able to reach in and open and then drop right into the car. You can’t do that with the RF and for an older driver that’s another advantage to get the soft top. I also agree the wide open feel when you’re on the road is much more advantageous. it’s my second car also and I’m not gonna drive it on a cold or rainy day if I’m going to drive the car it’s gonna be sunny and warm and I want to top down and I want that open airy field. Last weekend I drove to Northern Virginia, traded in my 2020 Grand Touring RF on a Soul Red 2022 Grand Touring MX-5 soft top. Love it!

[@stms4411]

The appearance of the RF is the only practical advantage to me. Like James, this is a 2nd car that’s garaged for me. My daily is a gr86 so I have the two main competitors in the segment of very few rwd true sports cars…..this provides me the top down and hard top driving experiences. The RF also cuts into the already limited headroom. Important for me as a 6 footer. Lastly - the top up ST experience feels luxurious compared to the NB Miata I used to have. So the top up experience is plenty quiet for my purposes. Good video

[@timtownsend1171]

Great video. Interestingly, pre-owned examples of the RF in the UK seem to be less than the ragtop version. It's certainly a great looking car in both guises. However, like you, I like the freedom of the ragtop when the hood is down. The RF targa arrangement does seem to be a bit of a letdown after the ragtop. Staying that, I'm not ruling out either version as my next 'toy' but at the moment, the ragtop is winning!

[@faithh6303]

I have a 2023 soft top. I absolutely love this car🥰 and I prefer soft top due to less blindspot and more open feel😊

[@jperes889]

I think the soft top looks better when the top is open. I prefer the RF slightly when the top is closed. I have a soft top mostly because of the price, but i do not regret it.

[@le0redd104]

Imagine driving with your soft-top halfway down... that's how the RF feels lol

[@404fox9]

I personally would like just a fixed roof if that'd be cheaper. I have no love for the convertible factor since I basically live in a forest of a city where it gets hot, cold, and sometimes very wet. Good weather comes for only several days of the year here.

[@vtxdaryl]

Why am I watching this, I’m not buying a Miata but I’m more informed. Great job posting this video.

[@Trigger-xw9gq]

Yup, fully agree on all points, and I recently opted for the ragtop on my 2023 GT. It was mostly due to that open, freeing feeling you get when driving with the top down. With the RF, you don't quite get that.

[@andrewbanks786]

Being kept outside for 2 years the soft top on my ND2 has developed some algea in places. Surprisingly easily remedied with the application of Milton sterilising fluid which is normally used for cleaning babies bottles!

[@johntechwriter]

No Miata -- no CAR -- should be parked outside. Even here in Northern California's benign climate, exposure to the elements will prematurely age a car's paint and its internal components. After three years you'll be driving an old car.

[@ag4allgood]

@@johntechwriter There are chemicals I use that protect the soft top / paint in any weather. My car looks like it came off the dealer lot !

[@lynebactol2877]

@@ag4allgood may i ask what chemicals you use?

[@ag4allgood]

@@lynebactol2877 Hi Lyne , I use the 303 Convertible Top Care Kit. Comes with a spray bottle of cleaner I use every car wash with a soft bristle Haartz Rag Top brush. Then once in the fall I use that 303 Fabric Guard that has a spray bottle but I use sponge brushes to apply that Fabric Guard. Wash in a manual spray booth only. Then for the outside hand wash the car / clay bar the car then use a Ceramic Spray Coating like Turtle Wax or Mothers about every 6 months. My car is a daily driver in 4 season Northern Illinois so it has seen lots of bad weather conditions. Really looks good as it approaches 5 years of use in that role !

[@carterbrown7961]

Gotta say I also love the speed of the soft top drop as opposed to the RF. The ~13 seconds feels like an eternity to drop the top on the RF.

[@JamesPlaysWithCars]

Very true!

[@scottanthony3426]

There is a lot to be said for simplicity as well. The RF has motors and a lot of moving parts that could eventually need repair. (Of course I used to think that about power windows 40 years ago, but as it turns out, I've never had an issue with one. I suspect Mazda's RF mechanisms are pretty reliable.) But that quick up'/down on the soft top is genius level simple.

[@aew1513]

Put 40k miles on an 2018 RF GT then traded it in for a 2021 RF GT I've put 20k on so far. Not once have I heard wind buffeting going whup whup whup at any speed. Wind noise is there but it is no louder on the highway with the RF than a 4 door sedan with all the windows and the sunroof open. Which is pretty loud, but I do it all the time. My take after having a Miata RF for several years and talking to many other owners. If it is a toy car that you drive only for fun on sunny days like it is for you, then get the soft top. If you are buying it to be a daily driver, or a primary driver, then get the RF.

[@JR-bt5dy]

2023 GT Soft Top LOVE MINE!!!! Thanks for the video.

[@luke_warmin]

Yoo, first video from you I’m catching so far and it was super helpful my guy. 100% know i am deciding on either a 2017 soft or RF soon so i really needed this. You’re the man. - i still need to get a solid test drive in both first though but soft top is looking like the lead thus far.

[@fruitloopette69]

"I'm not made of money," You made my day. Thanks.

[@isaiahj117]

I really like the points you made. I have test drive both Soft top and RF, personally prefer the Soft top, because it gives me a better view. To me, a garage is a place to park the car, instead of using it as a storage room or other purpose.

[@brandoncomer6492]

If you're using it as a daily driver or live somewhere where it gets cold and snows or rains a lot, RF is the easy choice. If I lived somewhere like California or Arizona or only drove the car seasonally, I'd probably go with a softtop I definitely think the hard top looks better, so gotta disagree there.

[@nativesystems]

Soft Top every time. I have an MX-5 MK3.5 NC Soft Top and love it. The RF is not a convertible, it’s a Targa Top a la Porsche 911 Targa.

[@robertboone8607]

The miata was conceived as a convertable, thus the issues with wind noise in the rf when the top is down at speed. The rf would be a better choice in a larger city due to security issues tho.

[@SanderDavidNorris]

I came for the Miata video but I had to leave a comment because I grew up in Tierrasanta and recognized that you were driving there haha

[@rustinpieces]

I'm in The Netherlands. Sunshine is a rarity here, especially compared to California! Cloudless days - we get perhaps 10 to 15 of those per year. I do have a garage (a rarity as well here, I'm blessed) but the looks of the RF are so cool. And - I'd use it top up 85% of the time anyway. More of a concern would be the very limited luggage space, since htis would become my only car. Now in a series1 (E81) 1-series Beemer, I definitely look for a car with at least similar levels of fun and "feel". Good vid, thanks!

[@Timpala44]

I just drove an MX-5 for the first time today. I am 6' tall and 210lbs. One thing I noticed between the soft top and the RF is that the rear view mirror is slightly larger in the RF That extra inch on the mirror makes it slightly harder to see forward under the mirror. We both preferred the open air experience of the soft top better than the RF. But, the RF does look cooler just sitting there parked. I have also heard about nasty wind buffeting with the FR models. That would drive us crazy.

[@moopet8036]

I have an NC with the PRHT and think it's great. Yes, it's heavier, but I don't notice that at all while actually using the car. I guess the big negatives are that it doesn't have as much storage space because of where the hard top stows itself, and the fact it takes 12 seconds to do its thing and you can't drive at the same time. I had soft top NA and NBs before and think if I ever get an ND it'll be the soft top for all the same reasons you said. The RF seems like a step backwards, but I do see more of them on the road around here than soft tops.

[@babo4752]

About 12 years ago, I had stayed in San diego for learning English. At that time, I found very sexy used car. It was mx-5 miata NB(soft top) That had an unfixable problem. But in my memory opening top was fantastic. After coming back my country(south korea) I've forgot for long time about mx-5. These days I've been looking for new car and It will be RF. I am sure my first hard top will also give me pleasure

[@JamesPlaysWithCars]

Good luck finding the perfect RF for you!

[@SwoOlley63]

RF looks much better imo then there’s the added security and reduced cabin noise. To me it’s a no brainer. RF all the way. Obviously if you don’t have the $$ your probably going to go for the rag top. At the end of the day, you’ve still got your ass in a great little roadster. Enjoy life !!

[@PaulG106]

Thank you very much - very good and honest breakdown of pros and cons. Helped me solidify my choice!

[@brianberezowski5352]

AWESOME video .. THANK YOU for sharing your views. I own a 1991 British Racing Green Miata. LOVE it .. living in Canada, (Northern Ontario) summers are short so I drive it when I can. When the sun 🌞😎 is out I call it a "Zoom Zoom day". Again, thank you for sharing your thoughts on the soft top vs the hard top. Almost time to put it in storage for 6 months.😥 Best regards from CYQT. 👍🇨🇦👍

[@JamesPlaysWithCars]

I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Cheers from SAN!

[@jeffwertz2953]

Nice video. I have the RF but I agree with what you said. And I love how fast you can drop that soft top!. Just a tip because yours sounds like the factory exhaust. I swapped out the axel back muffler with a Goodwin Racing with a Roadster Sport Super Street exhaust and WOW what difference in the whole experience. Best $500 I've ever spent. It transforms the car for me. And you can install yourself in about 20 minutes.

[@ag4allgood]

I spent a little extra & got the Flying Miata Hush O Matic active exhaust. It does not open fully until WOT then its louder. Early morning pulling out of the garage down the quiet neighborhood street does not wake up neighbors. Perfect sound too ! Agree the axle back exhaust makes a big difference over stock exhaust.

[@t.k.morris]

Any links of where to purchase your choice? Part number? etc....?

[@Jeff-fy1fp]

Both are really good cars. We recently went from an older soft top to an RF. The RF works out better for longer drives and for inclement weather. But if I was buying for nice weather and drives under 50 miles, I’d spring for the soft top.

[@cashtrail4648]

Might be too late for a question, but that buffeting starts to happen from what speed ? I rarely drive on highway. I'm in the market for an ND, and I'm not sure whether to go for the ST or RF. Also, being in a hot climate (Mediterranean coast) the choice isn't obvious. Some people say to get the RF because it's actually often too hot to have the top down. What's your experience in CA, which has a similar climate ? Thanks

[@oscardeharo]

I bougth a ST miata because is very quick to open the roof. There is another difference you did not mention. The calibration of the suspensión is diferent in both models. The ST is more tail happy, and the RF is more refined.

[@JamesPlaysWithCars]

Wow, I did not know that the ST is slightly more tail happy. Always great to learn new things from the comments!

[@t.k.morris]

From other reviews I have listened to, it is associated with rigidity that the soft top does not have. One person said it was like Mazda softened it up to make it feel that way for enjoyment and still be able to keep traction. More like body roll in a bigger heavier car. ????But, I do not know? I am trying to decide which one I want to buy! I am leaning towards the RF because of daily driver security, easier maintenance for the roof, looks, lots of rain and snow around Chattanooga and no garage to park it in yet.

[@sverrir]

Thanks for the video. My car is 2017 1.5L MX-5 RF. I bought it slightly used with about 3800 miles on the meter. I knew about the wind buffeting but since I bought the car used I was not able to choose the soft-top. I agree with all your points and I would like to add one more, if you plan on keeping MX-5 RF for long time I would guess that the motor for the roof will require maintenance in the future and it may also impact the battery of the car.

[@zealotscout]

I have a question I'm on a bit of the short end of the height spectrum. I sat inside what I believed was either a 2018 or 2019 RF. And moving the seat forwards slightly moved the seat upwards to get good visibility, which is good the height was perfect. I believe its because the seating is on a inclined rail, so the closer you go the higher up you are. Is that still prevalent for both rf and soft top models?

[@hoymikey]

Got my 2022 Soft top, loving it 🍻

[@andrewfuentes9785]

Desire to purchase a 22, but read and was informed they will not be available for some time. Are they available now?

[@hoymikey]

@@andrewfuentes9785 that's what I got here, same same for me

[@MadelnMachines]

I don't really get why people make such a big point of the 'openness' of the soft top vs the RF. There's barely any difference when driving. Do you really notice about having a 360 soft top view when you're really just looking forwards 99% of the time? I didn't know the GT had a double layer canvas top. Where did you find that out?

[@JamesPlaysWithCars]

Hi Made in Machines, I guess there’s something for everyone! I love the open feel of a drop top, with the bright cabin and ease of seeing to the sides whenever you change lanes, etc. But if that doesn’t resonate with you, RF may be the more practical choice. I don’t recall where I first learned that the GT has a different top. It might have been at the dealership, and confirmed by subsequent online research as I was shopping for my Miata.

[@krisrocker437]

@MadeInMachines, I agree with you. Not many people say this in their videos though. This is what I observed when I sat in the RF immediately after test driving a soft top - unless I looked at the blind spots for changing lanes, 360 experience didn't matter much. I mostly use my side mirrors to change lanes (not a safe thing but I have been doing that for years). And, I live in Seattle where it rains 8 months a year. I will most likely go with a RF but Soft top with top down looks sexier!

[@teekay_1]

I can say that with the RF that up to about 60 MPH the RF has very little additional noise in the cabin with the top down.

[@hughsnow830]

Deciding between a base soft top vs a GT soft top. The RF doesn't do it for me after cost, appearance, weight, another thing that can break & lack of vision. I was not aware of the single ply vs double ply soft tops. That might be enough to steer me to the GT. Another issue is that dealers carry way more new GTs than base. In Phoenix currently, I'm only seeing 1 base available vs 20-30 GTs.