2006 Mazda Miata Convertible

In the Eighties drivers seeking small, two-seat roadsters were left shopping a sea of used Triumphs and Fiats and new Alfa Romeos. Though sexy and fun, these makes were notoriously unreliable. In 1989 the Mazda Miata changed everything by bonding Japanese technology and quality with a shapely body, a near 50/50 weight distribution and a fun-to-drive factor that was revolutionary for the time. For 2006, Mazda has dropped the Miata name, bringing the MX-5 into line with the rest of Mazda's alphanumerically designated lineup. Though the new car shares not a single part with the former, it is still clearly recognizable as the heir to the Miata line — an impression Mazda worked hard to impart. Unlike the first MX-5/Miata, this model comes to the market facing stiff competition from the new Pontiac Solstice, Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder and, farther up the price ladder, the BMW Z4. Should the genre heat up as it did in 1989, other manufactures may soon suit up to do battle with the MX-5.