Topless Fun Anytime

Mazda's Miata started the whole roadster reincarnation. The 2001 model is the Miata's third major redo, although it's more subtle than the first two. Like many Washingtonians, the Miata keeps growing in all dimensions, but gets more powerful as it ages.

Changes include big things, like more room for passengers and their gear, better balance, and 15 more horses. And little things like dual cup holders with mug handle cutouts. Our tested Miata also had a Bose radio with CD; cruise control; and leather seating surfaces, available in your choice of tan.

With all the changes, Mazda has managed to retain the Miata's character as a sprightly, bold, and delightful driving companion. It dares you to drop the top and find a winding road - even in December!

It's almost the most fun two people can have in a car.

A Little Fun Could Cost You

If the Mazda Miata were a movie star, it would be Jim Carrey - always ready for fun.

But, like Jim Carrey, that fun doesn't come cheap anymore. While it retains the sporting character and splendid good nature of its early days, the price of the Miata has more than doubled. Decked out, the top-of-the-line model with leather and a 6 speed manual transmission costs over $26,000.

Demand is part of the equation. But the culprit, I believe, is the other sporty convertibles from BMW, Mercedes, Porsche and the like. By defining a $30- to $40,000 level for some sporty convertibles, they gave the Miata room to move up in price even though it's not as sophisticated as those other cars.

Now that Toyota's MR2 offers good fun for less money, the Miata may have to cover more territory. And it's sure to have fun trying.