The Mazda MX-5 won't need a whole lot of introduction here of course, the fourth-generation ND model now well established and continuing to tread its righteous path of low weight, zingy naturally-aspirated power delivery and ... let's face it, a certain evangelical zeal among its fans. Among whom we'll include Dan.
Matt, let's say, has yet to see the light. For him and people of the same mindset could something based on the MX-5 and with things we can agree are good - rear-wheel drive mainly - but a totally different image, powertrain and heritage convince him that cutesy roadsters are a good thing?
The protagonists in this battle are an 160hp MX-5 Sport Recaro (basically a 2.0 Sport with nicer seats) and the standard 140hp 124 Spider. For track work the 170hp Abarth version is probably the one you want but that's at least another five grand over the Mazda. And we couldn't get hold of one. Can the standard Fiat hold its head high with a different spin on Mazda's platform? Will Dan stop going on about his 'horse and rider as one' nonsense? Will Matt finally concede?
