That’s the big question, and we don’t have a clear-cut answer other than saying a Miata isn’t always the answer anymore. If you’re shopping between the two, it will boil down to if you need a bit of useable cargo space or if you’re only driving it at the weekends. We would be more inclined to recommend the GR86 for track day antics and everyday life and the MX-5 for weekend road fun and trips with the top down, but it’s not quite that simple.
The only place the GR86 becomes a liability is on longer journeys, particularly with a freeway involved. The ride is a little harsh, and the exhaust starts to drone. On the other hand, it’s a sports car designed to perform, not coset, so a harsher ride and more noise come with the territory.
For $28,400 for a base model or $31,000 for the Premium trim, the GR86 has no weak spot. It’s a swing and a hit for enthusiasts and the perfect demonstration that driving in a straight line really fast is boring: It’s the corners that make life interesting.
