2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata Video Road Test

We've driven them--every generation of them. We've owned them. We've raced them. We've loved them.

There's nothing quite like the Mazda Miata. Since it was new in 1990, it's set a benchmark for sportscars in handling--and it's stayed a benchmark for 25 years.

It's new this year, and it's been completely reengineered for lighter weight and tighter handling.

READ: 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata First Drive

But how does it stack up in today's sportscar world--a world where you can get 300 horsepower in some family sedans? We took to California's canyon country to sort it all out in the 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata.

Before taking off for a drive, you need to take a long look at the sharp, tight new body Mazda's wrapped around the Miata.

The new ND Miata is a little shorter than the last version at about 154 inches in all. It's a little wider, at about 68 inches, and wheelbase is up to 91.1 inches.

The proportions aren’t strikingly different, but the more you stare at it, the more you see the clarity of the new design. The beltline has more curves, and the hoodline dips down dramatically at the front. It's more sensually proportioned and detailed--a little less subtle, for sure, but definitely more contemporary.

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