This is really my wife's car, but I'll comment on it anyways. This is a great car to drive, and nothing beats putting top down and going for a cruise down to the beach on a cool summer night. The handling is responsive, and there is enough power to get up and go. After 80k miles, the car is still is great shape as well. There are some small paint problems on the top of the trunk, but the paint is still in good shape. The interior still looks brand new as well. The car has also held up fairly well. The only major problems at this point at the fact that the power windows are on the fritz. Also, the O2 sensor went out a few months ago. Then I realized that most replacement parts for Miatas are only made by Mazda, and they are expensive. Other than that, the car still runs great. The car is a great commuter car as it is easy to maneuver on the freeways and parking lots and gets good gas mileage. It is also a great car to take on a Sunday drive. However, it is horrible if you want to go play golf or go to the in-laws for the weekend. Even if you pack light, it is hard to fit everything into the trunk. Also, it is very impractical for families as it does not hold a car seat and it is hard to go on a full grocery run with it.

Perfect weight distribution added to the limited-slip diff and sport suspension with Bilstein shocks, made the handling absolutely perfect. A very economical 1.8L engine with variable cam and enless amounts of torque. Low driving position makes it feel faster than what it really is, so all the fun with less chances of getting a speeding ticket.

Performance: Acceleration, especially with the manual is speedy but not rocket-sled like. Braking is excellent with stock brakes. I have Riken Raptor HR tires on right now which are functioning great in all types of weather except snow/ice. Handling is like your on rails. Every little nudge of the steering wheel is translated to a change of direction. One of the best handling cars I've ever driven. To sum it up, it swallows corners. Supercharger planned in distant future (i.e. when I have money) Build Quality: Excellent craftsmanship and everything is laid out very simply. Would be a very easy to work on car. Modifications require little effort. Few squeaks and rattles on interior, but that is acceptable with the stiff suspension. No repairs as of today. Appearance: Fantastic looking car, but could do with some more muscle. Some say it looks like its smiling, which just reflects how one feels when tossing this thing through corners. The "Classic Red" combo with the tan top is very british sports car like and is a good look for the car. Cost of Ownership: The Miata commands a premium over similar models made by other manufacturers because of it's excellent build quality, good gas mileage, and high demand. I got a good price on the car, and so far, all regular scheduled maintenance has been relatively inexpensive. Fun factor: VERY FUN! I'd probably give it a 9/10, just because it could use a little more power.

Acceleration: Off the line is sluggish, but once the cams change profile, not too shabby. Brakes: Great, no ABS, but I like that cause it makes be a better driver. Handling: excellent, according to data aquisition, higher G- loads through all of the corners than a 911 GT3 tested there by Road & Track. Just PERFECT balance. Fun Factor: This car puts a smile on my face everytime I drive it. Much more so than my GTi, or my mom''s GTO. Cost: Everything's cheap, tires, brakes, oil changes, everything. Even gets about 33mpg on the highway! Appearance: I like it a lot. And I get a lot of compliments on it wherever I go. Issues: some weird rattles have developed in the last year. But then again this car has almost as many track miles on it as street miles. Bottom Line: If you want a cheap, fun car that can be great on the track, this is your ride. I have tons of in-car video footage of me killing much more expensive cars (F430 for example). It's easy to learn on, and a blast once you're good.

Fabulous car to drive. Missing some modern amenities (e.g. Bluetooth), but the driving experience more than makes up for that. Best sports car experience available at the price.