2024 MX-5 Miata vs. Toyota GR86 

When it comes to sleek, fast sports cars that are fun to drive, you can’t drive anything better than the Mazda MX-5 Miata or the Toyota GR86. These two sassy sports cars seem to offer drivers a similar experience at first, and they are two of the most well-known, affordable, rear-wheel drive sports cars on the market, but once you start to look closer, the vehicles come with some important differences.

Overview of the Mazda MX-5 Miata

The 2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata, often simply referred to as the Miata, is a legendary sports car known for its exceptional driving dynamics, affordability, and iconic design. However, the car’s appeal doesn’t stop there.

Performance and Engine Specifications

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is typically equipped with a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter inline-4 engine with 181 horsepower (hp) and SKYACTIV®-G2 technology, which provides lively acceleration and responsive performance. Its lightweight construction, near-perfect weight balance, and well-tuned suspension contribute to agile handling and precise steering, making it a joy to drive on curving, twisting roads.

The MX-5 Miata is available with either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission, allowing drivers to choose their preferred shifting experience. Despite its modest power output, the MX-5 Miata delivers an exhilarating driving experience, prioritizing balance and agility over brute force.

Design and Comfort Features

The Mazda MX-5 Miata boasts a timeless and sporty design, characterized by sleek lines, compact dimensions, and a low-slung profile. This includes classic roadster proportions, such as a long hood, short overhangs, and a low center of gravity, all of which accentuate its dynamic performance.

The hardtop convertible is easy to operate and stows away in as little as 13 seconds, allowing for quick transformation from a closed coupe to an open-air roadster. Mazda has also incorporated elements of its Kodo design philosophy into the MX-5 Miata, giving it a modern and sophisticated appearance while staying true to its classic sports car heritage.

Despite its focus on performance, when it comes to comfort, the Mazda Miata offers a surprisingly comfortable cabin for two passengers. The interior features high-quality materials and ergonomic design, creating a driver-centric cockpit that enhances the driving experience. Drivers can also enjoy several standard and optional features to enhance their experience, including a multi-function Commander control, nine-speaker Bose® audio system, and remote engine start.

Overview of the Toyota GR86

The Toyota GR86, formerly known as the Toyota 86 or the Subaru BRZ (in collaboration with Subaru), is a sports car renowned for its dynamic driving experience and affordable price point.

Performance and Engine Specifications

The Toyota GR86 is equipped with a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter flat-four engine, which produces around 228 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, providing brisk acceleration and responsive throttle response. The GR86’s rear-wheel drive (RWD) and low center of gravity further contribute to its agile handling and precise cornering capabilities.

The Toyota GR86 offers drivers either a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The vehicle’s performance-oriented suspension setup and chassis tuning offer a balanced driving experience, making it well-suited for both spirited driving and everyday commuting.

Design and Comfort Features

The Toyota GR86 boasts a sleek and aerodynamic design, characterized by its athletic proportions, sculpted lines, and aggressive front fascia. Its exterior features include LED headlights, a distinctive grille, and functional aerodynamic elements that enhance both performance and aesthetics.

Despite its sporty demeanor, the GR86 offers a relatively quiet and refined interior cabin, allowing for an enjoyable driving experience even on the longest journeys. As a four-seat sportscar option, the GR86 offers plenty of interior space alongside standard and optional features like a touchscreen infotainment system, smartphone integration, Bluetooth connectivity, and dual-zone automatic climate control.

Direct Comparison: Mazda Miata vs. Toyota GR86

Both the Mazda Miata and Toyota GR86 belong to a specific (and rare) class of vehicles — affordable sports cars. However, when you compare the two models directly, a few distinct differences make one vehicle stand out over the other and may lead to a clear choice of which one is right for you.

Driving Experience

The dynamics of both sports cars are understandably top-notch, with performance and handling as the cornerstone of their design and experience. However, numbers cannot tell the story of these two cars when driving. For example, while the Mazda’s hp is lower (181 versus 228), the car’s overall size and weight are also significantly smaller, as the Miata is a classic two-seater sports car, while the GR86 offers four seats. As a result, the Miata offers a lower curb weight and classic convertible driving experience, compared to the Toyota with more interior room and cargo space.

Pricing and Value

Notably, the starting price for both cars is nearly identical. The 2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata Sport, the lowest trim level, starts at $28,985, while the 2024 Toyota GR86 starts at $28,400. On the high end, the 2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring starts at $34,285, and the 2024 Toyota GR86 10th Anniversary Special Edition starts at $34,360.

Mazda MX-5 Miata Advantages

Several advantages are afforded to drivers who opt for the Mazda Miata versus the Toyota GR86. This small car packs a big punch with a strong, solid build that performs, regardless of speed. Like all 2024 Mazda models, the interior of the Miata comes in above and beyond other cars at its price point, offering drivers upscale additions such as leather coverings and premium options as standard features. For those looking for a classic two-seat, convertible sports car experience, there may not be a better option than the Miata.

Get Behind the Wheel of a Mazda MX-5 Miata with DePaula

Are you ready to see and feel the difference for yourself? Stop by DePaula Mazda in Albany, NY, and test drive the 2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata today.