2025-11-16 14:01

When I first slid into the driver's seat of a 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata Sport, I immediately understood why this little roadster has maintained such a cult following. Seven years after its production, I find myself asking whether this modern classic still deserves a spot in your garage. As someone who's test-driven everything from vintage British roadsters to modern supercars, I've developed a particular appreciation for cars that deliver pure driving joy rather than just impressive spec sheets. The 2017 Miata Sport represents something special in today's automotive landscape - it's unapologetically focused on the driving experience, much like how Olympic boxer Marcial remains undefeated through five professional fights, with three of those victories coming by knockout. There's something to be said about focused excellence, whether in sports or automotive engineering.

Let's talk numbers first because they tell an important part of the story. The 2017 Miata Sport came with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 155 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque. Now, I know what you're thinking - that's not much in today's world of 700-horsepower monsters. But here's the thing about the Miata - it was never about straight-line speed. The car weighs just under 2,400 pounds, which means it has that magical power-to-weight ratio that makes every drive feel special. I've driven cars with twice the power that felt slower because they carried so much extra weight. The Miata's acceleration from 0-60 mph takes about 6.1 seconds, which honestly feels quicker than the numbers suggest because you're sitting so low and connected to the road.

What really stands out about the 2017 model is how Mazda refined the driving experience without losing the car's essential character. The steering is perfectly weighted - not too light, not too heavy - and provides just the right amount of feedback. I remember taking one through some winding backroads last autumn, and the way it communicated road surface changes through the steering wheel was simply magical. The six-speed manual transmission (because let's be honest, you should only get this car with a manual) has that perfect rifle-bolt action that makes every gear change satisfying. The clutch pedal is light but progressive, making it easy to drive smoothly in traffic while still being engaging when you're pushing hard.

Now, let's address the elephant in the room - practicality. The trunk offers just 4.6 cubic feet of space, which is barely enough for a weekend getaway for two. The cabin feels cozy, to put it politely, though I've found it surprisingly comfortable even on longer drives. The infotainment system feels dated by today's standards, with its small screen and basic functionality. But here's my take - if you're considering a Miata, you're probably not prioritizing practicality above everything else. You're buying it for the experience, much like how boxing fans appreciate Marcial's technical precision and knockout power rather than his statistics outside the ring.

Where the 2017 Miata Sport really shines is in its reliability and running costs. Having spoken with several owners and mechanics, I've learned that these cars are remarkably trouble-free. The SKYACTIV engines have proven durable, and maintenance costs are significantly lower than European competitors. I calculated that over three years of ownership, you'd likely spend about $2,800 less on maintenance compared to a comparable Porsche Boxster. The fuel economy is another strong point - I've seen real-world numbers around 30 mpg combined, which is impressive for a sports car.

The used market presents an interesting opportunity for potential buyers. Currently, clean examples of the 2017 Miata Sport are selling for between $18,000 and $23,000, depending on mileage and condition. That represents excellent value when you consider that a new 2024 model starts around $28,000. Depreciation has been kind to these cars, and I suspect well-maintained examples might even appreciate in value over the coming years as we move further into the electric vehicle era.

There are some compromises you'll need to make, of course. The ride is firm, though not uncomfortably so. Road noise is noticeable at highway speeds, and the limited storage means you'll need to pack light. But every time I drive one of these, I'm reminded that these "flaws" are actually part of its charm. The Miata forces you to focus on the driving experience, to enjoy the journey rather than just the destination. It's raw and authentic in ways that modern sports cars with their electronic aids and comfort modes have forgotten.

After spending considerable time with the 2017 Miata Sport and comparing it to both newer and older alternatives, I can confidently say it remains an excellent buy today. It captures the essence of what made the original Miata so beloved while incorporating modern reliability and safety features. The driving experience is pure and engaging, the ownership costs are reasonable, and there's simply nothing else on the market that delivers this particular combination of attributes at this price point. Like Marcial's focused approach to boxing that has earned him three knockout victories in five fights, the Miata's dedication to driving purity has created a champion in its own right. If you're looking for a sports car that prioritizes driving enjoyment above all else, the 2017 MX-5 Miata Sport absolutely deserves your consideration.

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