Is it true that the Mazda Miata MX-5’s magic lies in its mix of light weight, sharp handling, and fun? If so, you’ll find kindred spirits in the Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ, which deliver similar thrills with their own twist, or even the Fiat 124 Spider and Honda S2000 for those who crave unique character and performance. What secrets make each of these stand apart?
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Key Takeaways
- Toyota GR86: Offers similar driving dynamics to the Miata with a focus on handling.
- Subaru BRZ: Known for balance and handling, similar to the Miata’s driving experience.
- Fiat 124 Spider: Provides alternative rear-wheel drive experiences with a classic design.
- Honda S2000: Renowned for precision handling and high-revving engine capability.
- Porsche 718 Boxster: Luxury and performance with mid-engine layout, similar to Miata’s agile feel.
2023 Toyota GR86
If you’re looking for a car similar to the Mazda MX-5 Miata, the Toyota GR86 is a strong contender. Priced from $29,495, it delivers the same affordable sports car appeal with a focus on pure driving experience.
You get a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated flat-four, rear-wheel drive, and a lightweight chassis that makes every turn engaging. Its 228 horsepower propels you from 0-60 mph in 6.6 seconds with a manual, rivaling the Miata’s spirit.
With a chassis shared by Subaru BRZ but unique styling, the GR86 stands out for performance on winding roads and tracks.
2023 Subaru BRZ
The Subaru BRZ is another car that shares a lot of similarities with the Mazda MX-5 Miata, particularly in its focus on driving dynamics.
It’s powered by a 2.4-liter flat-four engine, producing 228 hp, which makes it fun to drive.
Offering practicality with rear seats and trunk space, the BRZ is more versatile than the Miata.
As a sports car, it’s recognized for its balance and handling, appealing to driving enthusiasts who enjoy engaging experiences similar to the Mazda Miata.
2023 Hyundai Elantra N
When comparing the Hyundai Elantra N directly to the Mazda MX-5 Miata, you might notice that both emphasize driving excitement despite their different approaches: while the Miata is a classic, lightweight roadster, the Elantra N is a turbocharged, four-door sedan that doesn’t compromise on performance or value.
The Elantra N features a powerful turbocharged engine, offering 276 hp and 289 lb-ft of torque, making it a strong contender in the sports car segment. Its performance and practicality make it a great alternative for those seeking a fun, everyday sports car.
2024 Chevrolet Camaro
Checking out the Chevrolet Camaro as a sports car option, you’ll find it offers a strong contrast to the Mazda MX-5 Miata.
The Camaro provides more seating capacity and a convertible option, offering a mix of performance and open-air driving. It delivers robust performance, with the four-cylinder version producing nearly 100 more horsepower than the Miata.
The Camaro’s strong performance and practicality make it an attractive choice, especially with its sporty convertible option available.
2024 Ford Mustang
If you’re looking for a sports car like the Mazda MX-5 Miata, the 2024 Ford Mustang offers a different take with its powerful engine options and versatile configurations. It provides a strong driving experience, though it may not match the Miata’s pure handling. Here’s a comparison:
| Feature | Ford Mustang | Mazda MX-5 Miata |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Turbo 4-cyl | 2.0 DOHC 4-cyl |
| Power | 315 hp | Lower |
| Price | $32,515 | $30,515 |
| MPG | Up to 33 hwy | Up to 35 hwy |
| Weight | Heavier | Lighter |
2023 BMW Z4
Following the Ford Mustang’s muscular appeal, the BMW Z4 offers a contrasting experience with its blend of luxury and performance in a rear-wheel-drive roadster format.
You’ll enjoy the Z4’s two-seat layout and advanced technology, but it prioritizes comfort over pure driving thrill like the Miata.
The Z4 tops the Miata with more powerful engines, including a turbocharged inline-six, making it a compelling model for those seeking luxury and speed.
This car is available with sleek drop-top designs, offering a refined driving experience.
2023 Toyota Supra
When considering cars similar to the Mazda Miata MX-5, the Toyota Supra stands out due to its performance and design.
You’ll notice the Supra offers a more powerful driving experience with its turbocharged inline-six engine, producing significantly more horsepower than the Miata, but it comes with a higher price tag.
The Supra’s design focuses on speed and luxury, offering a different driving experience compared to the Miata’s lightweight agility.
Performance
Even as the Mazda Miata MX-5 impresses with its lightweight maneuverability, the Toyota Supra steps up the game with exhilarating power and advanced handling dynamics right out of the box.
Unlike the naturally aspirated engines in many Italian sports cars or classic two-seat roadsters, the Supra boasts a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six that delivers 382 hp and 368 lb-ft of torque, propelling you from 0-60 mph in just 3.9 seconds.
Its shared BMW Z4 platform, 8-speed automatic transmission, adaptive suspension, and rear-wheel-drive setup make it a compelling, less expensive sports alternative that offers thrilling agility and balance.
Design
The Toyota Supra’s sleek design is a demonstration of its sporty heritage, featuring a long hood and short rear deck that evoke a classic sports car silhouette.
You’ll notice these key design highlights:
- A bold front fascia with sharp LED headlights and a distinctive grille that signal modern American sports styling.
- A driver-focused cockpit with two seats, emphasizing comfort and control for an engaging drive.
- Aerodynamic features like a rear spoiler and sculpted body lines that reduce drag and optimize mid-range torque.
While not a soft top, its design shares BMW Z4’s platform for low center of gravity and handling finesse.
Pricing
Now that you’ve taken a look at the Toyota Supra’s sleek design, it’s time to reflect on the cost.
The 2023 Toyota Supra base model commands a starting price of $45,135, putting it squarely in the premium category and making it clearly more expensive than the Miata, which often starts at half that sum.
However, if your priority isn’t a brand-new car, you might find cheaper alternatives among used Supra four-cylinder models, with prices that can dip closer to new Miata territory.
For raw affordability, the MX-5 remains unmatched, even if the Supra tempts with its luxury and power.
2024 Porsche 718 Boxster
If you’re hunting for cars similar to the Mazda MX-5 Miata but crave a step up in luxury and performance, the Porsche 718 Boxster immediately comes to mind.
It offers a more luxurious alternative with exceptional handling and aesthetics.
Here are some key features:
- Handling and Sound: Renowned for its mid-engine layout, balanced handling, and exceptional sound.
- Performance: Features powerful engine options for exhilarating performance.
- Interior Design: Offers a more upscale interior with advanced technology.
However, it comes at a higher price point, roughly double that of Mazda Miatas.
2024 Nissan Z
As you consider alternatives to the Mazda Miata MX-5, the Nissan Z stands out as a powerful and modern sports car that rivals the Miata’s driving experience.
The 2024 Nissan Z delivers 400 horsepower from its twin-turbo V-6, offering double the power of the ND Miata, while maintaining rear-wheel drive and sporty handling.
Although the Nissan Z comes at more than double the price, around $42,000, it appeals as an affordable sports car with heritage-inspired styling and advanced features like a multi-link rear suspension for improved control.
This makes the Nissan Z a compelling option for those seeking more power without sacrificing classic sports car appeal.
2023 Audi TT
The Audi TT stands out as a stylish and luxurious alternative to the Mazda MX-5 Miata, offering a more refined driving experience, though it may lack the nimbleness of the Miata.
Here are some key features of the Audi TT:
- Versatile Options: Available in both coupe and convertible formats.
- Performance: Features a powerful engine for a high-performance driving experience.
- Luxury: Offers a refined interior and advanced technology.
Classic and Niche Alternatives to the Mazda MX-5 Miata
You’ve just examined the luxurious side of the Audi TT as a contemporary alternative to the Mazda MX-5 Miata. Now, let’s investigate classic and niche alternatives like the Fiat 124 Spider, Toyota MR-2/MR-S, Honda S2000, and Pontiac Solstice.
| Car Model | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Fiat 124 Spider | 1.4L/1.7L Engines, Classic Look |
| Toyota MR-2/MR-S | Mid-Engine, 1.8L Engine, Agile |
| Honda S2000 | High-Revving, 9,000 RPM |
| Pontiac Solstice | Sporty Performance, Stylish Design |
Conclusion
You’re not just looking for a car, you’re hunting for an adventure The Toyota GR86 and Subaru BRZ are your go-to partners for a fun ride, while the Hyundai Elantra N brings a wild twist with its front-wheel drive. The Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang offer muscle, and the Porsche 718 Boxster provides luxury. Classic options like the Fiat 124 Spider add a touch of Italian flair, ensuring your driving experience is nothing short of legendary
