Essential Motoring 101

My first test drive on a very low car, the Mazda MX-5 Roadster is something worth lauding for. I still cannot believe that the car was able contain a six-footer me into its seat during the test drive a week ago. Brought in by Naza World, the Roadster is a classic 2-door street sports car that is able to charge up your adrenalin when you need it. The car is no stranger to the Malaysian market as it made it’s debut about 15 years ago with its infamous retractable headlights. It was the second-generation of the MX-5, also known as Miata in North America, that had the Malaysian public at awe of its convertible roof.

Born for the road

The ultimate chick magnet

 

The third-generation Roadster was the one I tested recently. Compared to it’s predecessor, on first glance, the Roadster showed no dissimilarities. Struggled to spot what’s new on the baby, I finally noticed the headlights and rear lights - they looked more futuristic. The retractable headlights were replaced with a fixed combo headlights that incorporates turn lights and projector lights.

Love ‘em curves on the Roadster!

 

Since it was a hardtop, there was no hope of experiencing wind on the face. As it was quite a sunny day, the air-cond was not powerful enough to keep me cool. I had to make do with the limited head room as well. The seats were plushy to absorb the bumps though. The dashboard doesn’t look futuristic but not too ancient as well. There was no wood trimmings but I kind of like the orangey colour scheme that matches with the silver and grey. Sound system was OK with a double-din head unit that features touch screen.

A good attempt to make it youthful.

The power on this baby is worth shouting about. Generated by a 2.0L engine, the Roadster is a fun car to drive on weekends. It is not a recommended car for daily commuting to work though as comfort is compromised. The engine is mated with a Steptronic gearbox with option to engage in automatic or manual action via the gear stick or the steering-mounted shift paddles.

You dont get this on the PlayStation

The Roadster is fitted with 17″ sport rims with Michelin rubbers - the perfect combo for a more road-sticky ride.

Wheels that kill

The MX-5 is quite basic. Not sure will it still attract new buyers with a price from RM199,999. However, the car spells fun on high speeds. Make sure to find the right route to run the baby if you ever own it, it needs lots of road length for the continuous adrenalin kicks. Get to your nearest Naza World showroom in PJ, Bangsar or in Taman Tun Dr Ismail and ask about the MX-5 today.