Mazda’s reputation for building proper driver’s cars was enhanced when it introduced the MX-5 roadster in the late 1980s. The lightweight sportster was tested for CAR’s December 1990 issue.
Although it was powered by a normally aspirated, 1,6-litre four-cylinder motor, the MX-5’s short ratio five-speed gearbox, quick steering, narrow tyres and 960 kg kerb weight more than made up for the lack of grunt with a fun factor that few modern cars can match. The little roadster managed to sprint from zero to 100 km/h in 10,05 seconds and managed a top speed of 186 km/h.