Originally Posted By: k24a4
a sin that it's an auto, but what were your impressions of the ride and handling?
Lol, the auto is probably one of the quickest shifting autos I've driven. Smooth too, but that's expected since it's an Aisin unit. Have to figure out how to do a drain and fill sometime.
I have to start by saying I love this car. But, being a sporty car though, it rides and sounds like one. The ride is firm, but I'm surprised by how composed it is on the highway for its size and weight. I used to drive an 04 Civic and it could feel insignificant on the highway. I don't get that from the Miata. I don't really have any similar experiences to compare the handling, but it can cut through curves like nothing I've driven before (again I've mainly driven compacts, midsizes, and vans). We have to parallel park in front of our house, and this little thing just slides right in. I think my mom drives better in this car, although she still has to get used to the tighter steering. This car with a small 2l engine feels as fast or even faster than my Maxima with a V6. The exhaust note is kinda nice too. The Bose system is underwhelming for the nameplate. The interior is well built, but the materials quality can be better. The convertible top creates a major blind spot for me since I have the seat all the way back. Haven't had much trouble using the side mirrors for checking lane traffic though. I definitely feel like I have to be extra careful. I love how easy the top retracts even though it's manual.
Being a convertible, road noise is expected and present. Who cares though when you can drive around with the top down?
I'm a bigger guy (6', 220 lbs) and do find it a snug fit, but not uncomfortable. My Maxima feels like a luxo boat though when I get back into it.
The main thing that matters though, is that my mom enjoys it, and she's not the gearhead type. If I ever have the opportunity to get a second car, I'd definitely consider a Miata for myself or something in its class.
a sin that it's an auto, but what were your impressions of the ride and handling?
Lol, the auto is probably one of the quickest shifting autos I've driven. Smooth too, but that's expected since it's an Aisin unit. Have to figure out how to do a drain and fill sometime.
I have to start by saying I love this car. But, being a sporty car though, it rides and sounds like one. The ride is firm, but I'm surprised by how composed it is on the highway for its size and weight. I used to drive an 04 Civic and it could feel insignificant on the highway. I don't get that from the Miata. I don't really have any similar experiences to compare the handling, but it can cut through curves like nothing I've driven before (again I've mainly driven compacts, midsizes, and vans). We have to parallel park in front of our house, and this little thing just slides right in. I think my mom drives better in this car, although she still has to get used to the tighter steering. This car with a small 2l engine feels as fast or even faster than my Maxima with a V6. The exhaust note is kinda nice too. The Bose system is underwhelming for the nameplate. The interior is well built, but the materials quality can be better. The convertible top creates a major blind spot for me since I have the seat all the way back. Haven't had much trouble using the side mirrors for checking lane traffic though. I definitely feel like I have to be extra careful. I love how easy the top retracts even though it's manual.
Being a convertible, road noise is expected and present. Who cares though when you can drive around with the top down?
The main thing that matters though, is that my mom enjoys it, and she's not the gearhead type. If I ever have the opportunity to get a second car, I'd definitely consider a Miata for myself or something in its class.
