Mazda MX-5 Miata

Mazda MX-5 Miata ND (4th Gen)

2016-present

EnthusiastExcellent

1.5L / 2.0L SkyActiv-G I4155-181 hp2,332-2,453 lbsRWD6-speed manual, 6-speed auto

HPDE Overview

The ND Miata is the modern benchmark for affordable track driving. Mazda got the formula right: 2,300 lbs, 181 hp (2019+), and a chassis that is simultaneously lighter and stiffer than any previous Miata generation. The KODO design language gives it legitimately good looks, and the SkyActiv powertrain is designed to rev. On track, the ND feels sharper and more immediate than the NC while recapturing the lightweight magic of the NA. The ND's party trick is its weight. At 2,332 lbs for the base soft-top model, it is within 200 lbs of the original NA while being infinitely more refined, safer, and reliable. The steering is electric-assist (a departure from the NA/NB hydraulic systems), and while purists complain about the lack of road-surface feedback, the steering weight and linearity are well-calibrated for track use. You lose some texture but gain consistency. The 2019+ ND2 with the 181 hp engine and revised gearing is the one to get. The extra 26 hp over the ND1 is significant at this power level, and the gearing changes make the car more usable on track. The Brembo brake package on Club/Grand Touring trims is excellent and handles track abuse with quality pads. The ND is modern enough that you can track it aggressively with minimal preparation beyond fluid changes, pads, and tow hooks.

Strengths

Lightest current-production car you can buy — 2,332 lbs in base formStiffer chassis than any previous Miata generation, despite lower weightND2 (2019+) engine has 181 hp and revs eagerly to 7,500 RPMStock Brembo brakes (Club/GT trim) handle track use with proper fluid and padsModern safety features (stability control, ABS, airbags) provide a safety netMX-5 Cup is a growing professional spec series with a clear ladderCan be tracked nearly stock with minimal preparation — drive it to the event, run it, drive home

Weaknesses

Electric power steering lacks the road-surface feedback of NA/NB hydraulic systemsStill slow on straights compared to anything with a turbo or a V8Limited aftermarket compared to NA/NB (growing but not equivalent yet)New car prices mean depreciation is a factor — you are tracking a $30,000+ carThe RF (retractable fastback) adds 100+ lbs of roof mechanism weight

Why People Love It

The ND is the best Miata ever made for someone who wants to drive to the track, run all day, and drive home. It is modern, reliable, lightweight, and genuinely fun. The 181 hp engine in the ND2 finally gives the Miata enough power that you do not feel embarrassed on straights, and the chassis is stiffer and lighter than any previous generation. Mazda nailed the balance between raw driving engagement and modern livability. You can track it with nothing more than fresh pads, a fluid flush, and tow hooks — try doing that with a 30-year-old NA.

Why People Hate It

The ND is a $30,000+ car that you are choosing to beat on. Depreciation is real. The electric power steering, while well-calibrated, cannot replicate the feel of the NA's hydraulic system, and that loss of tactile connection bothers purists. The aftermarket is growing but not yet at NA/NB levels, meaning some solutions require patience or custom fabrication. And for competitive racing, the ND is locked into MX-5 Cup or multi-marque classes — there is no Spec Miata equivalent yet, so the racing community is smaller.

Best For

Modern track day enthusiasts, daily-driver/track-car combo seekers, MX-5 Cup aspirants, HPDE regulars who want reliability and low maintenance, and anyone upgrading from an aging NA/NB.

Not Ideal For

Budget buyers (the ND is not cheap to acquire), analog purists who demand hydraulic steering, or people who want extensive aftermarket options right now.