Of course European MX-5 fans know that the 2.0 has a Torsen-style limited slip differential to make up for itself, but that's a part you can order from Mazda and jam under the 1.5 as well. Think of it as the age-old argument between first-generation NA Miata owners, who can never agree whether the 1.6-liter or 1.8-liter engine is superior. Yes, the 2.0 has more power, more torque and an equally lightweight flywheel, but that can't make it as peppy as the Miata's base unit with its featherweight rotating mass. Is there bad news for America? I guess the only downside is that the smaller, 1.5-liter engine, the one that's only available in Europe remains the better of the two Miata motors. It's a noticeable improvement right where you want it the most. And when it's a bit too much and you step on the middle pedal, the RF provides a more linear brake feel thanks to an optimized booster. Through the wheel, you get more assist when you begin to turn, which then gradually fades out as you apply more lock. More importantly, Mazda did some upgrades both to the Miata's dual-pinion electric steering and the brakes.
The Miata RF, and its roughly $2600 price hike over the soft-top, fits right into that picture. So far, Mazda's naturally-aspirated engine strategy has worked out just fine, and with the new "Kodo" design language hitting the spot for more and more people, Mazda is aiming for the same levels of customer emotional attachment that most premium brands enjoy. So instead of directing its limited resources towards expanding production capacity (and thus cutting waiting times), all the money will be poured into the engineering and design departments to make future Mazdas look, feel and drive better than anything for the price. Simultaneously, Mazda is trying to go upmarket. Therefore, the ND was designed with the retractable fastback body in mind from day one. But the RF was born in part because the NC-generation Power Retractable Hard Top actually outsold the soft-top for several years.
#MIATA RF DIM3 UPGRADE#
The roots of that car actually go back to an American Miata coupe concept from 1996, and aftermarket hardtops have provided an easy upgrade since the early days. Back in 2003, Mazda converted the NB Miata into a coupe, but only in limited numbers, and only for the Japanese market.
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