The MX-5 is a small, sporty car with a folding fabric roof so it’s never going to be the last word in comfort. It’s a perfectly usable everyday car, however, requiring very little sacrifice in return for the fun it offers.
Tall drivers will certainly find the cabin snug, but that’s the whole point of a compact two-seater and there’s enough adjustment in the seat and steering wheel to satisfy most shapes and sizes. Everything feels well put together and the dashboard is usefully clear and simple, allowing you to concentrate on enjoying the drive.
Practicality – as you’d expect – is limited. The
boot is large enough for little more than a couple of soft bags, although it is easy to access. In-cabin storage is in short supply, but there are a set of handy removable cup holders and a lockable storage cubby. Unlike most modern drop-tops the MX-5’s roof is operated by hand, rather than an electric motor. That’s no hardship, because raising or lowering it is a quick and simple procedure.
Buffetting with the roof down isn’t too bad; with it up the MX-5 isn’t as peaceful as more luxury-focused drop-tops, with a fair bit of noise filtering through to the cabin. If you want an MX-5 that offers better long-distance refinement, the metal-roofed
RF version is the one to go for.
Ride quality is good for such a sporty car, helped in no small part by the MX-5’s low weight. Cheaper versions with smaller wheels, in particular, skip over rough roads smoothly. The more powerful, sportier models have stiffer suspension and larger wheels that give a much firmer, but still surprisingly forgiving, ride.
Whichever version you get behind the wheel of you’ll have a big grin on your face, on even the shortest journey. Few cars, six-figure supercars included, offer such directness and poise, or provide such a rewarding connection between road, driver and machine. While it's rear-wheel drive layout and playful character are a driving enthusiast's dream, the MX-5 is an undemanding everyday car that's happy pootling around town and easy to park.