2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata First Drive

Specifications


		» Introduction » What’s New? » Miata History » Model Mix » Nuts and Bolts » Safety and Technology » Driving Impressions » Wrap Up » Specifications


		» Get Pricing » Get Email Updates » Get Consumer Ratings » Read More Reviews » Send a Letter » More Auto News

TO THE POINT What’s New? Design and engineering goals centered on handling, while adding features and safety equipment made the project a challenge. Power, interior space, and features are all up, while price is down.
Selling Points: Terrific handling, braking, and steering; slick-shifting automatic with paddle shifters; stability control system; bigger interior
Deal Breakers: Notchy manual transmission, trunk space is improved but is still on the small side, limited storage space in the cabin
Our Advice: Upon our first drive of the new 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata, the results look promising.

MEET THE COMPETITION Mini Cooper Convertible
Pontiac Solstice

Specifications The 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata competes against the BMW Z4 2.5i, Chrysler Crossfire Roadster, Honda S2000, Mercedes-Benz SLK 280, Mini Cooper Convertible, Nissan 350Z Roadster, Pontiac Solstice, Saturn Sky, Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible

Test Vehicle: 2006 Mazda MX-5
Price Range: $20,995 (Club Spec) to $27,260 (Limited Edition) (including a destination charge of $560)
Engine Size and Type: 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder
Engine Horsepower: 170 at 6,700 rpm (manual); 166 at 6,700 rpm (automatic)
Engine Torque: 140 lb.-ft. at 5,000 rpm
Transmission: Ffive-speed manual; six-speed manual; six-speed automatic
Curb weight, lbs.: 2,441 - 2,527
EPA Fuel Economy (city/highway): 24-25/30 mpg (both MTs); 23/30 mpg (AT) mpg
Length: 157.3 inches
Width: 67.7 inches
Wheelbase: 91.7 inches
Height: 49 inches
Head room: 37.4 inches
Leg room: 43.1 inches
Max. Seating Capacity: two
Cargo Volume: 5.3 cubic feet
Competitors: BMW Z4 2.5i, Chrysler Crossfire Roadster, Honda S2000, Mercedes-Benz SLK 280, Mini Cooper Convertible, Nissan 350Z Roadster, Pontiac Solstice, Volkswagen New Beetle Convertible

Photos courtesy of Mazda North American Operations

About Sue Mead
Sue Mead works as a photojournalist and features writer for more than two dozen publications. She has written for Parade, Popular Science, Open Road, the Road & Track Buyers Guide, Men's Journal, Popular Mechanics and Diversion and she has worked as an auto editor for CNN/fn. Sue has co-driven in two of the world's toughest off-road races, the Baja 1000 and the Paris-Dakar Raid. She attended four Camel Trophy adventures for Land Rover North America and has participated in several long-distance adventure drives. She recently completed her first book, "Monster Trucks and Tractors" published by Chelsea House. Sue lives in New England.