Mazda Miata Alternatives: There’s something magical about the Mazda Miata. It’s lightweight, straightforward, fun, and full of that “zoom-zoom” driving sensation that no contemporary crossover can match. Due to the Miata’s decades-long dominance among reasonably priced roadsters, a whole range of lightweight, rev-happy, and purely recreational vehicles have been inspired by it.
So if you’re a Miata enthusiast seeking for something comparable (but with a different flavor), this list is for you. Some are less expensive, some are more uncommon, and some are even cult favorites. Let’s dive into the 5 best Miata alternatives that deliver that same open-top joy.
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1. Abarth 124 Spider — The Miata’s Italian Twin With Attitude
If there’s one car that feel like a Miata but wears sharper sunglasses it’s the Abarth 124 Spider
Why Miata fans love it:
- Shares its platform with the Miata
- Turbocharged for punchier torque
- Rowdy exhaust note and more aggressive styling
- Sporty suspension tuned for real-world roads
The 124 Spider uses a 1.4-liter turbo engine with 164 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, giving it more low-end punch than the Miata’s rev-hungry 2.0-liter. It’s slightly heavier but more comfortable on rough roads — and on the used market, prices hover around $20,000 making it an absolute steal.
If you want a Miata that spent a semester abroad in Italy, this is it.
2. BMW Z3 — A Retro Roadster With German Charm
The BMW Z3 may have debuted in the ’90s but it still look timeless today. You get long-hood, short-deck classic proportions and a driving feel that blends nostalgia with old-school BMW magic.
Why Miata fans love it:
- Roadster purity — small, simple, and RWD
- Available with playful 4-cyl and torquey inline-6 engine
- Sleek styling with unmistakable presence
Early 1.9 liter Z3 model deliver 138 hp not mind blowing but enough to make the lightweight chassis come alive. The best part? Many clean examples sit between $4,000 and $14,000 making the Z3 one of the cheapest ways to enter the European roadster world.
3. Honda S2000 — The High Revving Legend
If the Miata is the friendly kid next door the Honda S2000 is the wild one who show up with a 9,000 rpm battle cry
Why Miata fans love it:
- One of the greatest 4-cyl performance engines ever made
- Incredible steering feel
- Timeless styling
- Iconic enthusiast status
The S2000’s 2.2-liter engine makes 240 hp revs like a superbike and deliver one of the most exciting open-top drives ever built. Yes it’s heavier than a Miata. Yes, it’s pricier — averaging $28,000–$33,000 and sometimes much more. But there’s a reason it’s a collector favorite.
If you love the Miata’s purity but want more power, more drama, and more revs… this one hits different.
4. MG-TF — A Lightweight British Bargain
The MG-TF is one of those sports cars that never got the recognition it deserved especially in the U.S. where it was never officially sold. But if you can find one you might be surprised by how “Miata-like” it feels
Why Miata fans love it:
- Featherweight mid-engine fun
- Responsive steering and sharp suspension
- Enthusiast bargain
Powered by a 1.8-liter 160-hp engine, the MG-TF combines British styling with clever handling and a playful character. With average prices around $4,000 it’s easily one of the cheapest ways to get Miata-level fun — as long as you don’t mind its rarity and right-hand-drive quirks.
5. Toyota MR2 Spyder — The Lightweight Mid-Engine Miata Alternative
Toyota didn’t want to copy the Miata — so it built something totally different: a mid-engine, ultra-light, minimalist sports car that drives like a baby Porsche.
Why Miata fans love it:
- Mid-engine balance is sensational
- Lightweight and super responsive
- Affordable used prices
The MR2 Spyder’s 1.8-liter engine produces 138 hp and when paired with its compact chassis, it becomes one of the most flickable little sports cars ever made. The best part?You can generally locate one for around $13,000.
If you’ve ever wondered what a Miata would feel like with the engine behind you… the MR2 answers that beautifully.
Final Thought
The Mazda Miata isn’t just a car it’s a blueprint that shaped decade of lightweight sports cars. Each of these alternatives brings its own personality to that formula. Whether you want Italian flair, German retro cool, Japanese high-rev thrills, British charm, or mid-engine agility, there’s a Miata-like machine waiting to win you over.
So if you’re ready to expand your open-top adventures, start with one of these five.
Who knows — you might just find something you like even more than your beloved Miata.
FAQs
Q1. Is the Honda S2000 better than the Miata?
A: “Better” depend on what you want. The S2000 is faster, more powerful and more thrilling at high RPM but the Miata is lighter, simple and more approachable.
Q2. Are BMW Z3 expensive to maintain?
A: They’re generally affordable but part and labor cost more than Miata part. Regular maintenance is key.
Q3. What’s the cheapest Mazda Miata alternative?
A: The BMW Z3 and MG TF often start around $4,000 making them the most budget friendly option.
Also Read: Toyota vs Honda vs Lexus: The Real Winner for the Most Reliable Sedan in 2025