I'm guessing that most of you already know Mazda's little Miata.
Heck, it's been on the road for well over 30 years now…and still draws admiring…even envious…looks.
And while Mazda's latest version of the "RF" has been with us since the '17 model year, this little guy is still likely to draw doubletakes…either top-up or top-down.
Why?
It's fastback / teardrop shaped targa hardtop.
Unlike Mazda's last conventional-looking retractable hardtop, the roof of this new version has an Italianesque curve and slope to it that, to me, makes it look like a 4/5ths scale model of a 6-figure supercar.
The top folds back into the trunk in 13 seconds, but leaves a rear targa-type bar over the back of your head…along with a partial wind-blocking rear window.
In short, it gives you everything that you love about open-air motoring, along with a bit more wind-buffering and overhead protection.
And one more bonus? No loss of space in the trunk.
Basic cloth-top Miatas start in the high $20's. To get the folding hardtop, you'll get a higher level of standard equipment and start in the mid $30's. In my opinion it's worth it.
Why? The folding hardtop gives me 100% of the sunshine I want plus the quiet and the security of a conventional hardtop Best of both worlds…and more. But I'll tell you about that "more" in a moment.
Meanwhile, take a look at what Mazda gives you in the "Club" version of the Miata RF: Bose HD audio, heated Recaro seating, Brembo front brakes w. red calipers, 17" dark alloys, and the famed Miata handling…due to almost perfect 50/50 front to rear weighting.
All Miatas come with a 181 HP 2.0 liter four…and either a 6-speed manual or automatic. "Club" versions, however, are manual-only…and it's an enjoyable and smooth-shifting stick.
Now I realize that 181 HP may not sound like much, but in a small, nimble car like the Miata, it's all you really need. 0-60 comes up in less than 6 seconds.
But it's not the acceleration that brings the smile to the Miata driver's face…it's the handling. You'll find yourself hunting curves and corners…and rarely leaving disappointed.
And as for that "more" that I mentioned earlier? The Miata just might be the sexiest and most enjoyable economy car on the road today. The EPA rates the MX-5RF at 26 City and 34 Highway MPG's. Pretty nice "bonus" to go with the fun, no?
2022 Mazda MX-5 RF
Bob Jackson2022 Mazda MX-5 RF
2022 Mazda MX-5 RF
Bob Jackson2022 Mazda MX-5 RF
2022 Mazda MX-5 RF
Bob Jackson2022 Mazda MX-5 RF
2022 Mazda MX-5 RF
Bob Jackson2022 Mazda MX-5 RF
