Notes From The Driveway: 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata

It was only a month ago that I drove the fourth-generation (ND) Mazda Miata on the canyon roads of Southern California and wrote a First Drive review for Motor Authority. In that review I concluded that the Miata is an absolutely fabulous car with plenty of power, brilliant handling, and a ride worthy of a family sedan.

CHECK OUT: Barracuda Coming Back As A Dodge?

Sometimes a second go-around tells you more about a car than an initial drive. For the past week, I’ve had the opportunity to drive the 2016 MX-5 Miata on the rugged streets of Chicago. The car I had was the Club model with the manual transmission and the somewhat overpriced $3,400 Brembo/BBS option package. The total? $33,120. After 220 miles behind the wheel, I’m happy to say that my first impression is confirmed: this is a great car. Here are some other observations from my week with Mazda’s outstanding sports car.

It’s easy to live with.

The problem with most sporty cars is the same suspension tuning that creates agile handling also results in a harsh ride. Not so with the Miata, even the Club model, which has stiffer Bilstein shocks and an additional strut tower brace. The Miata soaked up Chicago’s worst potholes and speed bumps without a complaint. The ride isn’t just impressive for a sports car. It’s better than most cars on the market today.

ALSO SEE: Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk: 0-60 In 2.7 Seconds, $79,999?

The top is also delightfully easy to use. By my unofficial count, it takes about five seconds to put it down or pick it up and latch it back into place. I see no need for a return of the power hardtop from the third-generation Miata.