Ah, the Mazda MX-5—America’s little sports car with a big personality. Some folks adore it for its zippy drives and go-kart vibes, while others think it’s too small or underpowered. It’s the car that ignites passionate opinions, both good and bad. Find out the seven reasons Americans love it—and eight reasons they don’t!

It’s a Budget-Friendly Sports Car

Why spend six figures for some exotic machine when the MX-5 lets you live the sports car dream for a fraction of the price? For under $30,000, you get a fun, rear-wheel-drive convertible that won’t break the bank. Who doesn’t love a good bargain, especially with a stick shift?

Classic Manual Transmission Fun

Americans love to row their gears—at least, the diehard car enthusiasts do. The MX-5 delivers that old-school manual transmission thrill. Shifting through gears as you take on winding roads? That’s a joy in itself. It’s a dying breed in today’s market, but Mazda is keeping the manual flame alive.

Perfect for Top-Down Cruising

You don’t buy an MX-5 for its hardtop. It’s all about dropping the roof and soaking in those sunny summer days. Whether cruising along the coast or just taking a Sunday spin, the MX-5 lets you feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your face—what’s not to like?

Handles Like a Dream

You can’t deny that the MX-5 handles like a dream. Agile and responsive, it hugs corners with the grace of a ballerina. It’s small, light, and makes you feel connected to the road. You might not be breaking land-speed records, but you’ll feel like a race car driver on twisty roads.

Reliability You Can Count On

Mazda is known for its reliable engines, and the MX-5 is no exception. You won’t be spending your weekends wrenching under the hood. For a sports car, it’s surprisingly dependable, with many owners enjoying years of trouble-free driving. This little gem keeps going in a world of finicky, high-maintenance cars.

Fuel Efficiency for a Sports Car

It’s not a Prius, but the MX-5’s fuel economy is nothing to sneer at for a sports car. With around 30 miles per gallon on the highway, you can enjoy all that driving fun without frequent gas station stops. It proves you don’t need a gas guzzler to enjoy driving thrills.

The MX-5 Community is Awesome

MX-5 owners are a friendly bunch! The sense of community is strong, whether it’s waving at fellow drivers on the road or sharing tips in online forums. There’s something cool about owning a car that connects you with like-minded people, all loving the same thing. It’s more than a car—it’s a club.

But… It’s a Tight Squeeze Inside

Now for the flip side: size. The MX-5 might feel like a sardine can if you’re taller than six feet. There’s no escaping it—the cabin is cozy. While it might feel snug for shorter drivers, some Americans just find it too cramped to be comfortable on long drives.

Not Exactly a Powerhouse

Sure, the MX-5 is fun, but with only 181 horsepower, it’s not precisely blowing doors off at the stoplight. Speed freaks might feel underwhelmed when their buddy’s Mustang roars by. For those who want raw power, the MX-5’s zippy handling might not be enough to compensate.

Limited Cargo Space

If you plan a road trip, the MX-5’s trunk might not be your best friend. You’re only hauling a little, with space for a couple of backpacks and maybe a duffel bag. Whether it’s groceries or luggage, that tiny trunk can be a bit of a buzzkill for the practical driver.

Road Noise Can Be a Problem

Driving with the top down is fun—until you hit highway speeds and the wind starts howling like a banshee. Even with the roof up, the MX-5 isn’t known for being quiet. That constant road noise might be charming to some, but it can wear on drivers who prefer a quieter ride.

It Lacks Tech Bells and Whistles

If you’re a tech lover, the MX-5 might feel a bit stuck in the past: no fancy screens, no state-of-the-art driving aids—just a basic, no-nonsense interior. For drivers who want all the latest gadgets and creature comforts, the MX-5 might come off as a bit… bare-bones and outdated.

It’s Not All-Weather Friendly

Snow? Ice? Forget about it. The MX-5 is a summer fling, not a winter warrior. Its rear-wheel drive and light weight make driving in bad weather a real challenge. For Americans who need a car that handles all four seasons, the MX-5 can be more trouble than it’s worth when the snow starts falling.

The Convertible Thing Isn’t for Everyone

For every person who loves dropping the top, there’s someone else who dreads it. The MX-5’s whole convertible vibe can be a turn-off for drivers who prefer the comfort and security of a hardtop. Plus, some Americans want to avoid dealing with the extra hassle of a soft-top’s upkeep.

Safety Features Aren’t the Best

While the MX-5 is undeniably fun to drive, there are certainly better options available on the road. Its small size and minimal safety tech don’t offer the same peace of mind as a bigger car. For families or safety-conscious drivers, the MX-5 is a risk despite its charm and appeal.