The Miata started life as a concept born in Mazda's California design center by North Americans Bob Hall (formerly of Motor Trend magazine) and Mark Jordan. It was largely a ground-up design with few components shared with other Mazda models. The target design specifications were clear and simple: make it as compact and light as possible with room for two adults to sit comfortably, make it handle as tightly as possible, and have a responsive and reasonably stout powerplant. I guess the whole "reliable and functional" thing was just assumed. Several options were tried out, including a mid-engine design, but a fairly straightforward front-engine rear-drive design won out, and thus the Miata MX-5 was born.

I love my Mazda Miata. It cost me less than $3000 but it's one of the best cars I have ever driven. It was built with a simple purpose: to be a great sports car. Front engine, rear wheel drive, light, no frills. It brings a smile to my face every time I drive it.

Yes, it's a "cute" car. But it's also totally raw. Amazing transmission. Perfect steering. You feel EVERYTHING on the road.

It's yet another example of how building a simple, focused product can lead to success.

Check out this hilarious commercial for the original model:

Any other Miata owners out there?