Five-Point Inspection: 2005 Mazdaspeed MX-5

3. Less Flex

The second generation “NB” MX-5 Miata had a stiffer body structure than the first generation “NA” MX-5 Miata. But with a stiffer suspension like what you find in the Mazdaspeed, chassis shutter, shake and flex are more prevalent. Mazda added a strut tower brace up front to compensate the negative side effects as well as other measures.

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It all adds up to make the Mazdaspeed feel as solid as regular MX-5s of the same era. It’s not quite as strong as the third-generation “NC” MX-5, but it’s still less prone to flex than earlier cars.