The Mazda NA Miata holds a special place in the hearts of car enthusiasts. Known for its lightweight design, exceptional handling, and sheer driving joy, it’s a roadster that delivers fun every time you get behind the wheel. But when it comes to the grind of daily life, commuting, errands, and everything in between, can the NA Miata handle it? Let’s dive into the pros and cons of daily driving this iconic car to see if it suits your lifestyle.
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One of the first things you’ll notice about the NA Miata is its compact size, which is both a blessing and a curse. The small trunk, with just 5.1 cubic feet of space, forces you to pack light. If you’re someone who appreciates minimalism or only needs to carry the basics, this might not be a problem. Solo errands, a weekend bag, or a couple of grocery bags fit just fine, and the rear parcel shelf behind the seats offers extra flexibility, provided you’re not driving with the top down.
However, if you’re the type who needs to haul more than the essentials, you might find the lack of storage frustrating. There are no spacious compartments for your everyday items like a laptop bag or sports gear, and if you have a passenger, space for additional items shrinks to nearly nothing. For light daily use, the Miata works. But for anything beyond that, it’s a tight squeeze.
When it comes to reliability, the NA Miata is a standout. Its simple engineering and durable components have earned it a reputation as a car that just keeps going. Regular maintenance, like oil changes and brake jobs, is straightforward and can often be done by DIY enthusiasts. Replacement parts are widely available and inexpensive, making it one of the cheapest sports cars to maintain.
That said, the Miata is not immune to the effects of age. Being a car from the early 1990s, you should expect some wear and tear, such as aging seals, rust, or suspension components that may need replacing. Another consideration is that many Miatas on the used market have been modified by previous owners. While some mods enhance the car’s performance, others may lead to reliability issues if not done correctly. Staying on top of maintenance and inspecting for potential issues will ensure your Miata remains a reliable daily driver.
Comfort in the NA Miata is subjective. The car’s interior is designed to focus on the driver, with everything within easy reach and a cockpit-like feel that enhances the driving experience. In stock form, the suspension and seats offer a decent level of comfort for a car of its size and purpose, making short commutes or city drives enjoyable.
However, the Miata’s snug interior can be a challenge for taller or larger drivers. With limited legroom, tight headroom, and a low seating position, it may feel cramped if you’re over six feet tall. Additionally, many used Miatas have aftermarket suspension or racing seats installed, which can make the ride stiff and less forgiving. If luxury or spaciousness is what you’re after, the Miata isn’t your best bet. But for drivers who enjoy being connected to the road, the compact interior and driver-focused design might feel just right.
The NA Miata excels in forward visibility. Its low dashboard and slim A-pillars give you a clear and commanding view of the road ahead, making it easy to place the car exactly where you want it. Combine this with the Miata’s lightweight design and agile handling, and you have a car that can quickly maneuver out of tricky situations.
On the flip side, safety features are minimal by today’s standards. Early models lack modern essentials like ABS, traction control, and side airbags, with some only offering a single driver airbag. Additionally, the Miata’s small size makes it harder for larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs to notice you, especially in dense traffic. Blind spots created by the soft top and rear pillars further emphasize the need for careful driving. While safety is manageable with attentiveness, it’s worth considering the Miata’s limitations in this area.
The NA Miata is surprisingly capable on the highway, especially for shorter trips. It can easily keep up with traffic, and on scenic highways with sweeping curves, the car shines. Its lightweight design and precise handling make these drives enjoyable and rewarding.
However, the Miata isn’t designed for long-distance comfort. The cabin is noisy at higher speeds, with wind and road noise becoming constant companions. Its small size can also feel intimidating when you’re surrounded by larger vehicles on the highway. Additionally, while the engine is lively, it can feel underpowered when merging or overtaking at highway speeds. For occasional highway use, the Miata holds its own, but extended commutes might test your patience.
One of the Miata’s strengths is its fuel efficiency. Thanks to its lightweight design and small engine, you can expect an average of around 27 miles per gallon, which is impressive for a sports car. It’s an economical choice for daily driving, especially if your routes are mostly city commutes or short trips.
That said, fuel economy can take a hit if the car has been modified with a turbocharger or other performance enhancements. In such cases, aggressive driving can lead to reduced MPG. For stock models, however, fuel efficiency is a major plus for budget-conscious drivers.
The Miata feels right at home in urban settings. Its small footprint makes it easy to maneuver through traffic, fit into tight parking spots, and navigate crowded city streets. The quick and responsive steering is particularly helpful in stop-and-go traffic, where larger cars can feel cumbersome.
However, the Miata’s low profile can make it harder for other drivers to see you, requiring extra attentiveness in congested areas. Additionally, the limited storage space means it’s not ideal for running multiple errands or hauling groceries. For short city commutes and quick trips, though, the Miata is a joy to drive.
The NA Miata keeps things simple. Its driver-focused interior avoids unnecessary distractions, which is part of its charm. For enthusiasts, this simplicity enhances the connection between driver and machine. Upgrading the car with modern conveniences like Bluetooth or a better stereo system is also straightforward and affordable.
That said, the lack of advanced features might be a drawback for some. Early models don’t offer cruise control, advanced air conditioning, or infotainment systems, and aging components like the original radio or climate controls might need repairs. If simplicity works for you, the Miata is perfect, but tech-savvy drivers might find it lacking.
If there’s one area where the NA Miata excels, it’s fun. The lightweight chassis, rear-wheel drive, and nimble handling make every drive an event. Few cars can match the thrill of winding through backroads with the top down on a sunny day. This is a car that prioritizes the joy of driving above all else.
Of course, this focus on fun means sacrificing some practicality. Storage, comfort, and features all take a backseat to the driving experience. But for enthusiasts, that’s exactly the point. The NA Miata is a car that turns even mundane commutes into moments of joy.
The NA Miata can absolutely work as a daily driver, for the right person. It’s reliable, economical, and delivers unparalleled driving enjoyment. However, its small size, limited storage, and lack of modern amenities mean it’s not for everyone. If you value practicality or need a spacious and comfortable ride, the Miata might not be the best choice. But if you’re willing to embrace its quirks, it’s a car that makes every day behind the wheel feel special.
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