2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata Review
Fuel Economy
22 - 23 mpg
Summary
What Edmunds.com says
It is more fun to drive a slow car fast than a fast car slow. The Miata defines the spirit of the modern roadster.
Pros
Tremendous fun to drive, excellent steering and handling, glass rear window with defogger.
Cons
Small trunk, drones during freeway trips, tight cabin.
What's New for 2003
Only minor changes are in store for the Miata this year. Base models receive standard 16-inch alloy wheels, a strut-tower brace, larger brakes and a child seat anchoring system. Cloth replaces vinyl on the top of the LS model, and tan leather gives way to a lighter parchment-colored hide. Also, the LS receives aluminum-colored interior trim and, for the first time, black leather is available as an option. New options include a cargo net, an auto-dimming mirror with an integrated compass and outside temperature display and special bezels for the headlights and taillights.
Consumer Ratings & Reviews
The biggest go-kart in the world
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 8 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 7 |
| Comfort: | 5 | Interior Design: | 6 | Reliability: | 8 |
| Fuel Economy: | 7 | Exterior Design: | 7 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
Review
The title sums it up. Extremely agile car and light on its feet, like a go- cart. It's about as roomy as one too. But those who appreciate this car for what it can do won't be concerned about that. Acceleration isn't very strong either but again, if you want straightline acceleration, go buy a musclecar. This car belongs on roads with tight curves. It's easy to drive and own so far. The only improvements would be bigger trunk and more grunt. Otherwise, this is a fine piece of machinery.
Favorite Features
Lightweight, balanced suspension.
Suggested Improvements
Bigger trunk, more grunt.
My Hobby
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 10 |
| Comfort: | 9 | Interior Design: | 9 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 9 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata LS 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
Review
I am a suspension and handling addict and this car answers the call and more. I have the six speed with Bilstein shocks and limited slip differential in triple black. For me the car has just the right horse power as I enjoy using the six speed to make the car go rather than just hitting the gas. I enjoy the interaction with the car and the road especially with the top down.
Favorite Features
I really like the black leather with the black exterior and the sports supsension adds to the fun. It feels like the harder you take a turn the more traction and stick you have. Do not need traction control-keep experience pure. ABS is one saftey exception for me
Suggested Improvements
I do not like the cumbersome installing of the cover. Plus a more effective wind screen behind driver and passenger along with auto sound adjustment with six disc cd in dash would be great. Also I would prefer a maximum performance summer tire as an option with sports suspension.
Great little Roadster in Austin
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 9 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 9 |
| Comfort: | 9 | Interior Design: | 8 | Reliability: | 9 |
| Fuel Economy: | 9 | Exterior Design: | 9 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata SE 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 6M)
Review
Wanted a great 2 seater roadster and got one. I really like the styling and handling. I like almost everything about the car. Only mods so far are oil pressure sending unit change and added front grille. Lots of fun to drive and great gas mileage.
Favorite Features
Styling and handling. Ease of raising/lowering convertible top.
Suggested Improvements
Nothing really comes to mind
Saved my life... best little car
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 10 |
| Comfort: | 9 | Interior Design: | 9 | Reliability: | 10 |
| Fuel Economy: | 8 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata Shinsen 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
Review
I have driven this sweet little car for the last few summers, and enjoyed every minute. Today, I got t-boned on the driver's side by someone running a stop sign, and I'm alive. Really sore, but alive. The outside of the car was really damaged, but the frame protected me well enough, that I can write this review. Not only was she beautiful and fun, but she turned out to be the best car in the most important sense. Thank you.
Favorite Features
The tight turns, and the look of it.
Suggested Improvements
Tilt steering so my husband can drive it.
Zoom Zoom
Overall Rating
| Performance: | 10 | Fun-to-Drive: | 10 | Build Quality: | 9 |
| Comfort: | 8 | Interior Design: | 8 | Reliability: | 9 |
| Fuel Economy: | 9 | Exterior Design: | 10 | ||
Vehicle
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata Shinsen 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
Review
Cup holders are a hassle. Small interior. But I wanted a roadster and got one. The most fun to drive of any car I have driven. Someone traded a BMW Z3 for a Miata the day I was at the dealership, so what does that tell you? This is (in my opinion) the best roadster you can buy. If I get depressed I just go for a ride in my Shinsen!
Favorite Features
Fun to drive. And that's what a car is supposed to be.
Suggested Improvements
Maybe a bigger trunk? But if you want cargo room or luxury, buy a luxury car.
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