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There is usable power from 2,500rpm for cruising and 3,000rpm for acceleration, all the way to the 7,000rpm fuel cutoff. This makes the 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata easy and pleasant to drive just about anywhere, especially on tight and twisty roads. Plus, although shifting is not often necessary, and many times any of two or three gears will be adequate for performance, the six-speed manual gearbox is an absolute joy to use, with fast action and short throws. Add to that the short, rigid driveshaft and optional limited-slip differential that is part of the suspension package, and the power gets to the ground very well.
The 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata's chassis is fully up to the demands of the drivetrain. The engine has been moved back 5.3 inches and is almost completely behind the front axle line. High-strength and ultra-high-strength steel are used in the unibody structure for maximum brawn with minimum weight, and aluminum hood and deck panels further reduce weight. The result is the sort of low-polar moment of inertia handling most commonly associated with a midengine car: quick, agile turn-in and immediate response to driver inputs.
The 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata's performance is aided by the suspension, which uses double wishbones in front and a multilink setup at the rear, with antidive and antisquat geometry for stability during hard acceleration and deceleration. Our test car had the optional suspension package, with slightly stiffer springs and matching Bilstein shocks. It exhibited excellent compliance over wretchedly paved roads, with a high degree of comfort and minimal body roll in cornering. Light, power-assisted steering and a soft touch to the electronically controlled throttle also helped the Miata's nimble fun factor.
With its compliant suspension, great grip, and light-touch handling, the 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata captures the essence of the sports car experience very well.
If it goes, it had better stop. And stop the 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata does--and well, with four-wheel disc brakes that are significantly larger than those in previous models. They feature both antilock and a new electronic brake-force distribution algorithm that works the rear brakes harder yet minimizes the danger of lockup.The Mazda Advanced Impact Distribution and Absorption system was used in the design of the 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata's unibody structure. Different materials of varying thickness placed precisely provide the strength and controllable deformation to protect occupants in the event of front, rear, or side collisions. Both front and side air bags are standard, and dynamic stability control is available.
Mazda's bumper-to-bumper warranty keeps you covered for the earlier of four years or 50,000 miles. During the warranty period, Mazda also offers roadside assistance, although it is just call center support that can find local services for you when needed.
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