No matter the generation or spec, the MX-5 (Miata) has proven itself as a worthy contender in the sports car category. Introduced in 1989, the MX-5 was a relatively tiny little convertible, boasting less than impressive performance figures and a “cute face”. The car may have been difficult to take seriously at first, but it only takes one drive for a person to realize just how well the cars handle.
The MX-5 is the perfect track toy, with its lightweight design and rear-wheel drive layout, and it’s more at home in the corners than it is down the straightaways. While the first two generations were closely related, the NC, or third generation, became a little bigger and shared a platform with the Mazda RX-8. And while early models command a premium, the NC is remarkably cheap because it was the ‘least loved’ model. But with a manual gearbox and 167 hp to the rear wheels, it was a blast to drive, and will forever remain one of the best entry-level sports cars.
