Should you wait for the ND3? or go for a used ND2.

Summary

In this video, the creator takes the Mazda MX-5 Miata ND2 for a relaxing drive, discussing its performance and the upcoming ND3 refresh. While appreciating the Miata's fun, spirited driving experience, they express concerns about the new ND3’s added technology features like emergency braking and adaptive cruise control, which they feel may detract from the pure driving experience. The video compares the ND2 and ND3 models, suggesting that potential buyers might find better value in a used ND2, particularly with winter approaching and prices dropping. Overall, the Miata remains a great car for enthusiasts, whether new or used.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Mazda Miata (ND2) is an exhilarating car that reinvigorates the driver's passion for driving and enjoying spirited road experiences.
• 😀 The upcoming Miata ND3 refresh includes added tech features such as adaptive cruise control and emergency brake assist, but the speaker is skeptical about their relevance for a sporty manual car.
• 😀 The ND2 offers a pure driving experience with 181 horsepower, and the speaker finds it to be a more enjoyable and focused car compared to newer models that add unnecessary tech.
• 😀 The ND3 refresh could cost around $35,000 or more due to added features, which the speaker believes may not be worth the price considering the car's core purpose.
• 😀 The speaker suggests considering a used ND2 as a better value, especially if you're looking for a more affordable option, with prices possibly dropping during the colder months.
• 😀 The Miata has a strong modding community, and modifying an ND2 is a great option for car enthusiasts who want to personalize their ride.
• 😀 The new ND3 refresh introduces new exterior colors, but the speaker prefers the classic colors like orange and black, with the deep green and tan interior being a standout option.
• 😀 While the ND3 will likely have some desirable tech updates, the speaker believes the driving dynamics will remain largely unchanged, meaning older Miatas still offer excellent value.
• 😀 The addition of adaptive cruise control and other safety features in the ND3 is seen as unnecessary for those primarily interested in the Miata’s driving experience.
• 😀 The speaker emphasizes that the ND2 Miata offers the same horsepower and driving thrill as the new model, making it a solid choice for anyone looking for a fun, affordable roadster.

Q & A

What are the main differences between the Miata ND2 and ND3 models?

The ND3 will feature some updated tech, including a track mode button and emergency braking assist, but the speaker feels these additions don't significantly improve the driving experience. The ND2, on the other hand, is preferred for its pure driving dynamics without the added features that may not be necessary for a manual car with 180 horsepower.

Why is the speaker not a fan of emergency braking assist in the ND3?

The speaker had a negative experience with a similar system in their 2020 Honda Civic SI, where the emergency braking assist would activate randomly even when there were no cars around. They feel this system is unnecessary, especially in a manual car like the Miata, which is meant for a more engaging driving experience.

What is the suggested price range for the new ND3 Miata?

The speaker estimates that the price for the ND3 Miata will be around $35,000 to $36,000 due to the added safety features like adaptive cruise control and emergency braking assist.

Should buyers opt for a new ND3 Miata or an older ND2 model?

The speaker suggests that buyers consider purchasing an older ND2 model, especially with the winter season approaching, when sports cars tend to drop in price. The ND2 offers the same driving dynamics and performance at a lower price, making it a better value for those who want a Miata for spirited driving.

What is the advantage of buying a used ND2 Miata according to the speaker?

A used ND2 Miata, especially from 2018 or later, offers the same horsepower and driving experience as the ND3 without the extra cost of added technology features like adaptive cruise control. The speaker believes buying a used ND2 would be a more economical choice, especially with cars dropping in price during the winter months.

How does the speaker feel about the tech updates in the ND3, such as LED headlights and adaptive cruise control?

The speaker doesn't see these updates as significant improvements to the Miata's driving dynamics. While the LED headlights look nice, they don't believe the changes, like adaptive cruise control, are necessary for a car designed for spirited driving.

What do Miata owners typically look for when purchasing the car?

Miata owners typically seek a fun, spirited driving experience, not necessarily advanced tech features. The car is meant to be enjoyed for its handling and driving dynamics, making it popular among those who want a car that provides a pure driving experience.

Why does the speaker suggest waiting to buy a Miata during the winter months?

The speaker mentions that during the winter, sports cars like the Miata tend to drop in price as they sit on car lots longer due to the cold weather. This can be a good opportunity to purchase a used Miata at a more affordable price.

What is the estimated value of a used ND2 Miata according to the speaker?

The speaker estimates that a used ND2 Miata in good condition with relatively low mileage could be found for around $25,000 to $26,000, providing a great value for buyers.

How important are driving dynamics compared to tech features for the Miata?

For the Miata, the speaker emphasizes that driving dynamics are far more important than tech features. The car is designed for enthusiasts who value performance and the thrill of driving rather than advanced safety or convenience features.