2000 Mazda Miata: Road Test
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2000 Mazda Miata ▼
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- MSRP: $20,545 -$25,055
- Invoice: $18,857 -$22,990
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Our road test for the 2000 Mazda Miata includes a full evaluation of the 2000 Mazda Miata from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2000 Mazda Miata, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2000 Mazda Miata help you decide if a 2000 Mazda Miata is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Base, auto. | LS, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 5.7 |
Acceleration is brisk; Mazda says 0-60 mph takes 8.0 seconds with either manual transmission, and that feels about right. Automatic-transmission versions aren't nearly as responsive.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Base, auto. | LS, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.2 |
Fuel economy is impressive; our extended-use '99 5-speed averaged 25.8 mpg over 10,000 miles.
RIDE QUALITY
| Base, auto. | LS, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3.2 |
Surprisingly supple for a sports car, even with the stiffer tires included in the Sport Package. Body flex is minimal over bumps, as only sharp impacts shake the cowl and windshield.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Base, auto. | LS, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 9 | 6.8 |
Reflexes are razor sharp with little body lean even in hard cornering. The standard sport-oriented tires didn't fare well in snow, so we fitted a set of four Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice winter tires, and they performed admirably.
QUIETNESS
| Base, auto. | LS, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 3 |
Road, wind, and engine noise are all prominent, though normal conversation is possible at 60 mph with the top down.
CONTROLS
| Base, auto. | LS, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 5.4 |
Controls are handy and rotary dials replace climate-system slide levers. But the console lid is hard to reach and the cover must be left open to use the two poorly designed cupholders.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Base, auto. | LS, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.2 |
Miata's cabin feels just as intimate as before. Six-footers have no excess leg space, but room is otherwise good for two adults.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Base, auto. | LS, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0 | 1.3 |
CARGO ROOM
| Base, auto. | LS, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | 2.8 |
Though not known for its carrying capacity, the Miata has luggage space that more-or-less suits its fun driving mission, with enough trunk room for a pair of small suitcases.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Base, auto. | LS, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 3.2 |
Miata represents front-engine sports-car tradition, while MR2 is a mid-engine design. Both are terrific fun to drive, with Miata offering slightly more cargo room and, in base form at least, somewhat better value. That makes it our Best Buy, one that by any measure is a great sports car.
Total Score
| Base, auto. | LS, man. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 44 | 46 | 41.8 |
Total Score: 45
Scores for all Sporty/performance Cars
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