Predicted 5-Year Cost to Own: $42,330
Compared to Segment Average: -$13,141
When you think of a simple sports car, the Mazda MX-5 Miata should come to mind. It’s an affordable roadster, a compact rear-drive 2-seater that continually reminds us of why driving is fun. Indeed, the handling balance of this little Mazda convertible is exceptional. You’ll find yourself coming up with reasons to drive it on weekends.
Another reason the Miata should come to mind? It has just earned the title of Best Sports Car in KBB’s 2021 5-Year Cost to Own ratings. How did the Miata, which starts at $26,830, snag the coveted KBB title?
For starters, the Miata is reliable. It has been built to withstand the rigors of the racetrack, yet it also shines in everyday use thanks in part to its manual soft-top or the RF model’s retractable hardtop that looks great but dips into the headroom a bit. While some may criticize the 2.0-liter engine for producing only 187 horsepower, it feels totally appropriate in the compact Miata, aided by an ability to rev to 7,500 rpm and the slickest manual shifter in the business.
On track or a country road, the Miata shines. Top-down evening drives take on a magical quality. And while it’s true this nimble sports car has sharp reflexes, it’s not too firm or sporty for everyday use, even when you order the Club model with its Bilstein shock absorbers, limited-slip differential, and 17-inch alloy wheels.
Reliable, fun, economical, and easy on tires and brakes, the 2021 Mazda MX-5 Miata, backed by a solid 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, vied with cars that cost six figures to snag the title of Best Sports Car in the 2021 KBB 5-Year Cost to Own Awards.
More 2021 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Build and price your own 2021 Mazda MX-5 Miata to see this week’s Fair Purchase Price, 5-Year Cost to Own, and more, or check out the Mazda MX-5 Miata models for sale today at dealers near you.
You can also see more sports cars or check out the full list of this year’s 5-Year Cost to Own Awards winners.
