Jerry Robbin

The 2009 MX-5 Miata Grand Touring is the third-generation design, but with a mild restyling and improved gas mileage. The MX-5 is in the same class as the Pontiac Solstice and Saturn Sky, but has a retractable top option. This in-expensive roadster is small, lightweight and fun to drive.

Driving Experience

The Miata’s has fantastic handling due to the 50/50 weight distribution and precise rack-and-pinion steering. The Miata is fun-to-drive but has minimum engine power. but does give you a sport s car feel!

The Miata’s 6-speed manual transmission adds a thrill to your drive experience. With the retractable top down going through winding turns is a blast and can only be appreciated as sheer entertainment.

Safety

The MX-5 has the mandated front airbags, and because there’s no backseat for carrying children or small adults, the passenger’s airbag can be deactivated. Side-impact airbags are standard, as are antilock disc brakes. The Grand Touring I was test-driving had electronic stability system with traction control.

Under the Hood

My test drive had a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with a six-speed manual transmission, The Miata’s with a six-speed manual 0-60-mph in 7.5 seconds, which is respectable. Mazda estimates fuel economy at 22-mpg city/28 mpg highway.

Inside

The MX-5 is small, but this two-seater provides a lot of creature features and ample driver/passenger space. The MX-5 had driver’s seat height adjustment; the seats give you excellent support with impressive side bolstering. The door and center armrests are w padded and the stereo system has an auxiliary audio input for MP3 players. My test drive even had heated seats.

Outside

The styling definitely says Miata, which has its own character. The grille is now larger and the headlights have a more unique shape. The rear bumper is also deeper and wider, with a more prominent crease on the side. The tailpipes are now flush with the bumper. The wheels, in both 16 and 17 inches, are new designs. The side sills and taillights are also new, but it’s not easily to distinguish them from the 2008’s.

My MX-5 came with a power-retractable hardtop. The retractable hardtop stores behind the seats, but does not sacrifice trunk space. The trunk isn’t large but has 5.3 cubic feet of cargo space.

Summary

The 2009 Mazda Miata is an affordable, fun to drive roadster that you should take for a test drive before you decide on your next purchase!

Specifications

Engine Type 2.0L DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine with variable valve timing (VVT)
Horsepower 167 hp @ 7,000 rpm (MT); 158 hp @ 6,700 rpm (AT)
Torque 140 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm
Redline 7,200 rpm (MT); 6,700 rpm (AT)
Displacement (cu in / cc) 122 / 1999
Bore x stroke (mm) 87.5 x 83.1
Compression ratio 10.8:1
Fuel system multiport electronic fuel injection with tuned air intake
Recommended fuel Premium unleaded
Valve train 4 valves per cylinder, variable valve timing (VVT) with timing-chain-driven camshafts
Engine block Aluminum alloy
Cylinder head Aluminum alloy
Emission control type Tier2 – BIN5 (Federal) – LEV-2 ULEV (California)
Ignition system
Exterior Dimensions
Wheelbase (in) 91.7
Track, front (in) 58.7
Track, rear (in) 58.9
Length, with front license plate holder (in) 157.3
Width (in) 67.7
Height (in) 49.0
Minimum ground clearance, laden (in) 4.6
Interior Dimensions & Capacities
Headroom (in) 37.4
Shoulder room (in) 53.2
Hip room (in) 50.6
Legroom (in) 43.1
Cargo volume (cu ft) 5.3