This is where the fun starts. The responsive 1.8-liter engine growls entertaininglywhen used hard and delivers good performance. No wheel-spinning excess here, just
power that can be used, and more of it than ever before. The '96 Miata generates 133
peak horsepower, a 5-hp gain over the '95 edition. That may not sound like much, but
it makes a noticeable difference in a car that weighs less than 2300 lbs.
Respectable fuel economy is part of the deal as well. The 5-speed manual transmission
is perfectly matched to the engine, and has one of the most positive short-throw
shifters around. That's a good thing, because the Miata engine thrives on high rpm. We
suggest you ignore the optional automatic; it's simply out of place in this car.
Although the Miata will scoot to 60 mph in about eight seconds, acceleration isn't
really its strongest suit. Handling is. Simply stated, the little roadster begs to be
driven with brio on a winding road. Body roll is minimal, the steering is both light
and pinpoint-sharp, and the extra-cost limited-slip differential allows the driver to
make maximum use of the power available.