Mazda MX-5 vs. Subaru BRZ: Complete comparison 2026

The Mazda MX-5, also sold in some global markets under the legendary Mazda Miata or Eunos Roadster nameplates, is an iconic lightweight two-seater convertible that has long dominated the affordable sports car segment thanks to its minimalist concept and rear-wheel drive. Standing against it is the Subaru BRZ, an agile coupe developed as part of a joint project with Toyota (closely related to the GT86 and GR86 models, with which it shares almost all its technology), which attracts enthusiasts with the specific character of its naturally aspirated boxer engine and a perfectly balanced chassis with an exceptionally low center of gravity. Let's find out in this detailed comparison which of these two purist Japanese machines represents the better choice on the nearly-new used car market and will bring you true driving pleasure behind the wheel.

The external dimensions of both cars clearly define their completely different approaches to building a sports car. While the Mazda MX-5 in its ND generation (completely dominant in the market for roughly four-year-old used cars) strictly adheres to the philosophy of the smallest and lightest two-seater roadster possible with a length of just 3,915 mm, the Subaru BRZ takes the path of slightly more generous proportions. With a body length ranging from 4,240 to 4,265 mm (depending on whether you go for the first or the newer second generation), the Subaru is more than 300 mm longer. This extra space hides a 2+2 interior layout. If you expect the car to provide not only fun but also occasional transport of bulkier luggage or emergency passengers in the rear seats, the longer Subaru BRZ is clearly a more rational and practical choice for daily use.

The Subaru BRZ has a wheelbase of up to 2,575 mm and a width of 1,775 mm, while the ultra-compact Mazda MX-5 relies on a wheelbase of just 2,310 mm and a more modest width of 1,735 mm. In practice, this difference of more than a quarter of a meter in wheelbase provides the Subaru with incomparably greater directional stability during fast cornering in long bends and gives it a calmer, smoother, and more predictable character when driving in an oversteer slide. From a dynamics perspective, the Subaru's larger footprint will appeal to drivers seeking confidence and a more mature driving experience, while the short and narrow Mazda is ideal for those who crave a nimble, go-kart-like agile car for weaving through the narrowest backroads.

The Mazda MX-5 literally hugs the asphalt with a total height ranging from 1,225 to 1,235 mm, depending on the chosen body style (soft-top Cabriolet vs. retractable hardtop Coupé designated as RF). The Subaru BRZ, on the other hand, has grown to a height of 1,285 to 1,325 mm, making it roughly 6 to 10 centimeters taller. This seemingly slight height difference fundamentally affects the perception of speed behind the wheel. The Mazda's extremely low silhouette maximizes the feeling of connection with the road, which purists looking for the perfect weekend toy will appreciate, while the slightly taller build of the Subaru offers somewhat easier entry and better visibility, giving the car an advantage for more frequent city and daily commuting.

When deciding between the Mazda MX-5 and the Subaru BRZ, driving characteristics and pleasure behind the wheel take center stage, but for many used sports car buyers, everyday practicality and trunk volume can be the deciding factor. Although neither of these cars is, of course, built for family moving, their approach to cargo capacity is diametrically different and fundamentally affects the overall usability of the car. The Mazda MX-5 is a purist two-seater roadster focused on absolute minimalism, while the Subaru BRZ, with its 2+2 interior concept, brings an unexpected level of versatility to the affordable sports coupe category.

The current generation Mazda MX-5 (ND), which makes up the majority of the market for approximately four-year-old used cars, has a truly very modest trunk space. The standard version with a canvas roof (Convertible) offers a basic volume of 130 liters. The RF (Coupe) variant with a power-folding hardtop loses another three liters due to its more complex and space-consuming mechanism, offering just 127 liters. Furthermore, this space is accessible through a relatively narrow opening and cannot be expanded in any way due to the complete absence of rear seats. The trunk is thus sized more for a pair of soft travel bags and is just barely sufficient for a weekend grocery run for two. You simply won't fit bulkier or longer items in it.

In contrast, the second-generation Subaru BRZ (introduced for the 2022 model year) is much more accommodating in terms of spaciousness and serves as a single car for an individual or couple without major compromises. The basic trunk volume is 201 liters, which in itself means valuable space for several extra bags. However, the biggest advantage of the BRZ is the possibility of simply folding down the rear seatbacks. Although the manufacturer does not state the exact maximum volume in liters in this configuration, the resulting loading area is so long and generous that, according to the tradition of this model, you can reliably fit a complete set of four spare tires for track days, or perhaps a snowboard. This makes the Subaru BRZ a car that is easily sufficient for a weekend shopping trip or a longer vacation.

When choosing a purely sports car, such as the Mazda MX-5 (ND generation, 2015–present) or Subaru BRZ (the transition between the 1st and 2nd generation from 2020–2024), driving characteristics, low weight, and fun behind the wheel are the primary focus. Trailer weight and total towing capacity are intentionally non-existent in these roughly four-year-old used cars, which is also reflected in their technical specifications. For buyers, this means only one thing – if you plan to tow a trailer, you are looking at the completely wrong category of cars.

Neither the Mazda MX-5 nor the Subaru BRZ are factory-homologated for towing a trailer. In the registration documents for both vehicles, you will find an exact value of 0 kg for both the standard and maximum weight of braked and unbraked trailers. No versions differ in this regard – for the Mazda MX-5, zero capacity applies to the basic version with a soft top as well as the RF model and for all engine options (1.5 and 2.0 SKYACTIV-G). The Subaru BRZ is exactly the same; whether with the 2.0i engine in the first generation or the newer 2.4 in the second generation, it does not allow for the attachment of any trailer.

With these lightweight rear-wheel-drive sports coupes and roadsters, designers simply do not account for the installation of a tow bar for heavy loads. Although special mounting kits exist on the market, they serve exclusively for attaching a lightweight bicycle carrier. You can immediately forget about a classic trailer that would be sufficient for a weekend shopping trip at a DIY store or for extra luggage space for a longer vacation with either model.

From the perspective of towing capacity, it is therefore impossible to declare a winner. The absolute absence of towing capability for both the Mazda MX-5 and Subaru BRZ clearly demonstrates their uncompromising sporty character, where every extra kilogram is a burden. If a tow bar is a necessity for you, these weekend models will not satisfy you in terms of practicality, and you will need to add a more versatile daily driver to your garage.

Given that no factory data for towing trailers exists for either model, no values are included in the comparison table below.

Both models represent the embodiment of driving pleasure and adhere to the classic school of sports cars, which means utilizing naturally aspirated engines, rear-wheel drive, and an emphasis on low weight. While most of today's production relies on small-displacement turbocharged units or complex hybrid systems, both the Mazda MX-5 and Subaru BRZ offer high-revving gasoline engines with lightning-fast throttle response. This approach not only guarantees a purist driving experience but also reflects very favorably on long-term reliability and overall efficiency. The fundamental difference lies in the architecture itself – Mazda uses a classic inline-four, while Subaru bets on a flat boxer engine. However, both manufacturers will satisfy both enthusiastic drivers looking for uncompromising sports performance and those who primarily appreciate playfulness and reasonable operating costs in a used sports car.

Mazda MX-5 Engines

In the case of approximately four-year-old used cars (the current ND generation after the facelift), Mazda MX-5's offering consists exclusively of high-revving naturally aspirated four-cylinders from the SKYACTIV-G family. The base is the exceptionally agile 1.5 SKYACTIV-G engine with 97 kW, which scores points for its willingness to rev and excellent fuel consumption. More demanding drivers then reach for the top of the range in the form of the 2.0 SKYACTIV-G version with 135 kW and 205 Nm of torque, which gives the car significantly sharper dynamics. Older and less powerful versions of these engines from the start of production (1.5 with 131 hp and 2.0 with 160 hp) no longer feature in our monitored age category of up to four years. Most cars on the market are equipped with a brilliant six-speed manual transmission with short throws, while a six-speed automatic can rarely be found in the body version with a hard folding roof (RF). Both units strictly burn gasoline and completely do without electrification.

Subaru BRZ Engines

Under the hood of the Subaru BRZ, we find exclusively flat naturally aspirated boxer engines, which provide the car with an extremely low center of gravity and phenomenal stability in corners. The market situation for roughly four-year-old used cars is quite specific for this model, as it hits exactly the transition between two generations. The first generation with the 2.0i engine producing 147 kW ended its presence in Europe at the end of 2020 (with the Final Edition). From the perspective of four-year-old cars, you can either find these last units of the first generation or you have to wait for early examples of the second generation delivered from spring 2023. These already house a larger and significantly more powerful 2.4-liter unit with 172 kW and an increased torque of 250 Nm, which corrected the frequent criticism of the older version for its weaker performance in the mid-rev range. Both types of power units can be combined with a purist six-speed manual or a classic six-speed automatic.

Choosing the right engine is crucial for long-term satisfaction with a purist sports car, and our recommendations are based on real-world performance, fuel consumption, user feedback, and the mechanical reliability of both Japanese legends. The Mazda MX-5 (ND generation) and Subaru BRZ represent two different philosophies for achieving maximum driving pleasure. While Mazda utilizes a traditional SKYACTIV inline-four with an exceptionally high compression ratio, benefiting from the car's extremely low overall weight and emphasizing minimized internal friction, Subaru bets on a unique flat-four boxer engine. Its design allows the car's center of gravity to be placed even lower than that of many exclusive supercars and uses a clever D-4S dual injection system (combining direct and indirect injection) to optimize efficiency and emissions. Both concepts require an active approach and high-revving commitment from the driver, but they reward with completely different characteristics, throttle response, and soundtracks.

For the Mazda MX-5, we recommend: 2.0 SKYACTIV-G 184 (135 kW)

From the current ND generation (2015–present), the absolute best choice for a roughly four-year-old used car is the more powerful 135 kW (184 hp) two-liter, which replaced the older and less powerful version (160 hp) in 2018. Why it's the best choice: This engine represents the perfect compromise between everyday usability and sporty performance. Compared to the weaker 1.5L engine, it offers more confident dynamics and, in most higher trim levels, is automatically paired with a mechanical limited-slip differential (LSD) and sharper Bilstein dampers. Technical advantages: The engine delights with a very flat torque curve, extremely fast throttle response thanks to a lightened flywheel, and a fantastic rev limiter pushed to 7,500 rpm. Furthermore, it surprises with exceptional efficiency – even during more dynamic driving on backroads, real-world consumption can easily be kept around 7 liters per 100 km. Known risks and what to watch out for: SKYACTIV-G engines are mechanically exceptionally reliable. However, always check the vehicle's service history; regular and timely oil changes (ideally every 10,000 km) are key to ensuring the trouble-free operation of the variable valve timing. During the test drive, focus carefully on the manual transmission, specifically whether there is any "crunching" during quick shifts from second to third gear. Although the updated 184 hp version received much more robust transmission internals, synchros can still be worn on cars frequently pushed on race tracks. Who it's for: This high-revving marvel is tailor-made for enthusiastic drivers looking for a playful weekend car with the sky above their heads, but who can also handle a brisk road trip through Alpine passes without compromise.

For the Subaru BRZ, we recommend: 2.0i (147 kW)

Considering the market for roughly four-year-old used cars, the Subaru BRZ from the end of the first generation's production makes the most sense, for which we recommend the naturally aspirated 2.0i boxer (147 kW / 200 hp). Please note that production of this specific engine ended in 2020 (available 2012–2020), so you will encounter it exclusively as a used car, while the new generation with the 2.4 engine (2023–2024) is still very rare on the market and significantly more expensive. Why it's the best choice: The proven naturally aspirated two-liter represents the most affordable and driver-rewarding entry into the world of genuine rear-wheel-drive sports coupes. Technical advantages: The horizontally opposed piston design has pushed the car's center of gravity to an absolute minimum, giving the car phenomenal agility and predictability in corners. Real-world consumption during normal use hovers around an acceptable 8 liters. A characteristic specific to this engine is a noticeable "torque dip" between 3,000 and 4,500 rpm; however, this naturally and enjoyably forces you to shift actively and keep the tachometer needle near the redline. Known risks and what to watch out for: Main service complications include the very cramped space under the hood, which makes the regular replacement of spark plugs after 100,000 km significantly more expensive and difficult. When inspecting a used car, visually check for oil leaks around the valve covers and insist on a completely cold start – if a harsh metallic clicking is heard from the engine, it may indicate neglected maintenance. For this car, it is absolutely crucial to verify whether the previous owner changed the oil at intervals of 10–12 thousand kilometers. Who it's for: This boxer with its typical mechanical growl is ideal for driving purists and fans of controlled slides who appreciate an honest mechanical connection, love working hard with a precise manual transmission, and care more about cornering speed than raw power when pulling away from a traffic light.

The difference between official figures and real-world fuel consumption is often a sensitive topic for sports cars. Especially for cars bought purely for driving pleasure, the engine's appetite is primarily influenced by the weight of the driver's right foot. Paper figures based on strict homologation standards rarely reflect real-world use on twisty backroads. To avoid unrealistic laboratory data, we looked at the actual experiences of drivers with used cars around four years old.

To get the most accurate and objective picture, we used long-term data from the independent community portal Spritmonitor.de, where owners enter their own refueling records. Given the market for four-year-old cars, we logically included the current generation of the Mazda MX-5 (ND) and, for the Subaru BRZ, covered units from the end of the first and the beginning of the second generation.

When interpreting the data in detail, we encounter several interesting trends. The reigning lightweight king, the Mazda MX-5, benefits incredibly from its flyweight mass and advanced naturally aspirated engine technology. It may come as a surprise to many that the significantly more powerful 2.0-liter engine averages only half a liter more fuel than the smaller 1.5-liter. The traditional myth that a smaller engine automatically guarantees radical savings at the pump is not confirmed here. The more powerful 2.0-liter simply has enough torque to avoid overworking itself during a relaxed cruise through the countryside.

On the other side is the boxer flat-engine concept of the Subaru BRZ. The car is noticeably heavier, and its engines naturally demand a larger helping of gasoline. While the older 2.0-liter from the end of the first generation's production averages 8.5 liters, its successor with the new 2.4 engine saw only a minimal increase in consumption to around 8.8 liters. This slight increase of three-tenths is a huge success given the significant boost in power and driving pleasure.

For the typical driver, these numbers mean a clear division of roles. If you are looking for a sports car for daily commuting ("daily") or spend weekends devouring hundreds of kilometers while watching your budget, the Mazda is a much friendlier choice. With a little practice, its real-world consumption matches even common compact city hatchbacks. Conversely, the Subaru BRZ behaves like a more mature classic coupe, where higher consumption is an inevitable tax. It will be appreciated more by purists who don't plan on crisscrossing the country and whose lower annual mileage compensates for the higher costs.

In conclusion, fuel consumption will be a major deciding factor for many potential buyers. A difference of roughly two liters per hundred kilometers can represent hundreds or even thousands of euros in the medium term with daily use. If operating economy is important to you in a sports car, the Mazda MX-5 emerges as the undisputed winner of this particular battle.

When choosing a used car roughly four years old (models around 2021 and 2022), we encounter very different market dynamics for these two Japanese icons. While one car is an affordable sales hit with wide availability, the other immediately became a sought-after rarity due to European emission limits.

Mazda MX-5 (ND Generation, 2021–2022 models)

The fourth generation of the cult roadster (ND) has been on the market for many years, which means the secondary market is excellently saturated. You can find a used MX-5 relatively easily, with reasonable mileage and a wide variety of trims and colors.

• Price range: For four-year-old models, you will pay approximately €23,000 to €31,000 on the used car market.
• Engine and equipment factor: The cheaper end of the spectrum consists of versions with the basic but rev-happy 1.5-liter engine (1.5 Skyactiv-G). The more sought-after 2.0-liter versions (2.0 Skyactiv-G), especially fully equipped models with Recaro seats, Bilstein dampers, and a limited-slip differential, hold their value much more strongly and move towards the upper price limit.
• Body type: Versions with a retractable hardtop (RF – Retractable Fastback) are traditionally more expensive than the classic soft top by roughly €2,000 to €3,000.

Subaru BRZ (ZD8 Generation, 2021–2022 models)

The second generation of the Subaru BRZ entered the market with a larger 2.4-liter engine. However, compared to the Mazda, it reached Europe only in strictly limited allocations due to strict fleet CO2 limits. These cars didn't stay at dealerships for long, and their exclusivity fundamentally distorts the classic used car market.

• Price range: A used second-generation BRZ (approx. 4 years old) usually ranges from €31,000 to €39,000 on the market.
• Depreciation: Extremely low. The ZD8 generation BRZ holds its value with a tenacity rarely seen in this class. Many lightly used cars are sold for amounts that almost mirror the original list prices of new cars at the time.
• Availability: Very limited. On domestic classifieds portals, you will usually only come across a handful of units, and many buyers eventually have to search for their dream BRZ abroad (primarily in Germany), where prices are similarly high.

Indicative price comparison (cars approx. 4 years old)

While buying a used Mazda MX-5 represents a classic and safe bet with plenty of room for negotiation, acquiring a newer generation Subaru BRZ is more like a strategic investment in a low-volume car.

When comparing common modern cars, we would usually start with a general note that both vehicles received a five-star Euro NCAP rating; however, for these purist sports models, we must emphasize a completely different context and, above all, the year of testing. Euro NCAP testing protocols continuously evolve and become stricter over time. Increasingly demanding frontal impact simulations, stricter cyclist detection, or solutions for crisis scenarios at intersections are being introduced. For this reason, percentage results from different years cannot be directly compared, as today's methodology is incomparably tougher.

The Mazda MX-5 (ND generation) underwent European crash tests in 2015. According to the protocols of the time, which are now milder, it received a solid four-star rating. It lost valuable points mainly for the absence of advanced assistants such as autonomous emergency braking (AEB), which was not standard equipment. Conversely, the car earned an excellent score for pedestrian protection (93%) thanks to the standard active pop-up hood. If you are considering buying a roughly four-year-old used car, it is necessary to take into account that the official validity of this 2015 rating already expired at the beginning of 2022, and the car would likely not achieve the same percentage result according to the latest and strictest standards.

On the other hand, the second-generation Subaru BRZ (introduced for the 2022 model year) has not yet been tested by Euro NCAP at all. For this reason, there is no official crash data for the second generation on the European market, and it is intentionally missing for the Subaru in the table below. However, the absence of European crash tests does not mean a reduced level of protection. From overseas safety tests, we know that the BRZ has excellent body rigidity and overall brings a significantly more modern suite of active safety features from the Subaru EyeSight family – although it is good to realize that the full range of assistants was for a long time tied exclusively to versions with an automatic transmission.

In the final comparison, the Subaru BRZ offers a more modern and comprehensive safety package, as it benefits from a newer design and the presence of assistance technologies that better correspond to today's standards for accident prevention. Mazda MX-5 provides a proven mechanical foundation with good passive safety, but its active safety features already fully reflect the age of the platform itself.

In addition to standard equipment, each of the models offers several unique features that perfectly reflect their different approaches to driving experiences and can be decisive when making a choice.

Mazda MX-5: Connection between driver and car and the sky above

• Roof construction and design: Mazda offers a choice between a classic canvas roof (Soft Top), which can be folded and raised with one hand directly from the seat in a few seconds thanks to an ingeniously simple mechanism, and the RF (Retractable Fastback) version with an electrically folding hardtop for better acoustic and thermal comfort in colder months.
• Audio and infotainment: A prominent and very clever feature of higher trim levels is the premium Bose audio system, which uses speakers integrated directly into the seat headrests. This ensures clear music sound and intelligibility of phone calls even when driving fast with the top down.
• Chassis and stability: Cars from recent production years boast the unique Kinematic Posture Control (KPC) technology. This electronic system imperceptibly brakes the inner rear wheel when cornering, which mechanically "pulls" the body down, suppresses body roll, and gives the car maximum confidence without the need to install uncomfortably stiff shock absorbers.
• Jinba Ittai philosophy: Everything in the interior is strictly subordinated to the driver. The minimalist approach means perfectly shaped controls, an analogue tachometer in the center of the field of vision, and an emphasis on pure mechanical feedback, complemented by an ideal 50:50 weight distribution.

Subaru BRZ: Low center of gravity and track practicality

• Engine and chassis concept: At the heart of the Subaru is the iconic naturally aspirated Boxer four-cylinder engine. Thanks to horizontally opposed pistons and a flat design, the engine is mounted extremely low, which fundamentally lowers the car's center of gravity and contributes to lightning-fast reactions during quick changes of direction.
• Telematics and track functions: The second-generation BRZ is equipped with a modern digital instrument cluster that completely changes visually when switched to Track mode. It offers a linear tachometer optimized for quick reading and displays advanced telemetric data such as a G-force meter, stopwatch, or precise operating fluid temperatures.
• Safety electronics: Subaru successfully integrates its advanced EyeSight assistance system even into its sports coupe (standard primarily on automatic transmission versions in cars around four years old). It includes adaptive cruise control and pre-collision braking, making the BRZ a surprisingly comfortable and safe car for long highway journeys.
• Space and everyday usability: Unlike the strictly two-seater Mazda, the BRZ offers a 2+2 interior layout. While the rear seats serve more as a bulky storage space or an emergency option for children, folding them down creates a flat surface. Subaru prides itself on the design, ensuring that a set of four spare tires and tools for a weekend "track day" fit perfectly into this space behind the front seats.

Mazda MX-5 is a genuine purist roadster aimed at drivers seeking a maximum connection with the machine and the joy of open-air driving. Its featherweight and playful character make it the perfect toy for weekend backroads, but due to minimal practicality and a cramped cabin, it requires significant compromises from the owner for daily use.

Subaru BRZ represents a fantastic sports coupe that combines a precise driver focus with a much higher level of daily usability. Thanks to its more powerful engine, closed cabin, and larger luggage compartment, it is the ideal choice for car enthusiasts who want a car capable of serving for regular commuting as well as regular weekend visits to racing circuits.

Based on our own CarAudit inspections, breakdown statistics, and long-term owner experiences, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems that buyers of used cars of these models should watch out for.

For the fourth generation (ND), especially the updated versions after 2019, the Mazda MX-5 is considered a highly reliable car. Nevertheless, it has specific ailments related to its lightweight construction. During a physical car inspection, we recommend focusing on the following areas:

• Bodywork and paint: A typical weakness is the very thin layer of eco-friendly paint, which is extremely prone to stone chips, primarily on the front grille and the aluminum hood. On versions with a canvas roof (Soft Top), the drainage channels can occasionally become clogged, leading to water leaking into the interior and a risk of floor corrosion.
• Transmission: In manual transmissions of the early ND generation years, rapid wear of the 2nd and 3rd gear synchros occurred. The update for four-year-old cars (the so-called ND2) largely solved this problem, but with frequent track use, the shifting can still show increased mechanical wear and poorer operation when cold.
• Engine: The naturally aspirated Skyactiv-G four-cylinder engines are among the most reliable on the market. Exceptionally, in units with higher mileage or those previously pushed hard on the track, slight oil consumption may appear.
• Interior and electronics: Older versions of the MZD Connect multimedia system can occasionally suffer from "ghost touch" (unintended touches on the screen caused by a faulty touch layer) or gradual delamination of the display due to heat.

The second generation of the Subaru BRZ (and its twin, the Toyota GR86) brought a larger engine with higher power and better body rigidity, but it struggles with one much-discussed mechanical problem that a comprehensive vehicle inspection should primarily focus on.

• Engine and lubrication (RTV silicone): The most well-known and serious problem with the FA24 flat-four engine (2.4 Boxer) is the excessive use of silicone sealant (RTV) on the oil pan from the factory. Loose pieces of silicone can fall into the pan, clog the pickup tube, and cause fatal engine damage due to insufficient lubrication. Many owners therefore have the pan preventively removed and the pickup tube cleaned immediately after the break-in period.
• Oil pressure drop on the track: During aggressive driving on a race track, especially in long right-hand corners, a momentary drop in oil pressure can occur in this generation. If you are buying the car primarily for "track days," the installation of special baffle plates in the oil pan is strongly recommended.
• Clutch and transmission: In manual versions, squeaking or humming of the clutch (throw-out) bearing appears relatively early; it is undersized and often requires premature replacement.
• Chassis and wheels: Similar to the Mazda, the paint is very soft and prone to chipping. A specific feature of the Subaru (and the previous generation) is the relatively fragile factory wheel studs, which can break during frequent wheel changes at the track – it is recommended to replace them with high-strength ones.
• Interior: Rattling of plastic parts in the interior and an overall lower level of cabin soundproofing is unfortunately the standard that must be expected with this driver's tool.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key. Here are several specific points to focus on for these two models, as sports cars are often pushed to the limit by their owners. If you want to be completely sure about the condition of the chosen vehicle, the best solution is a comprehensive car inspection.

When choosing a Mazda MX-5:

• Condition of the soft top and drainage channels: Water in the interior is a common problem with convertibles. Check the canvas for wear in the folds. Much more important, however, is checking the drainage channels behind the seats. If they are clogged with leaves and dirt, water does not drain and accumulates in the cabin. During the inspection, feel the carpets behind the seats and in the trunk to see if they are damp or smell of mold.
• Cold manual transmission operation: The manual transmission in the ND generation has a reputation as one of the best on the market, but it can be troublesome in some units. During the test drive, try shifting with a completely cold engine. Shifting from first to second gear may be stiffer, but it should not grind or offer extreme resistance.
• Infotainment and the so-called "ghost touch": The displays of the MZD Connect multimedia system can suffer from delamination or spontaneous touch activation (the screen reacts as if you were touching it) after a few years. During the test drive, leave the navigation or main menu on and watch if the system clicks by itself, switches stations, or changes the map.
• Chassis corrosion protection: Mazda has historically struggled with rust protection, and the ND generation is no exception. Even on approximately four-year-old cars, surface corrosion can appear on the control arms and subframe. A physical inspection of a used MX-5 on a lift is an absolute necessity to reveal if the car was driven frequently in winter on salted roads.

When choosing a Subaru BRZ:

• Maintenance history and the risk of oil starvation: The flat boxer engine is very sensitive to oil quality and quantity. In current generations (especially with 2.4l engines), problems can occur with excess sealing silicone (RTV) in the oil pan, which clogs the pickup tube. Check the service book – the oil should be changed after a maximum of 10,000 km. During the test, monitor the oil pressure (if the onboard system allows) and the smoothness of the engine's pull without hesitation.
• Clutch release bearing condition: During the test drive, stop, roll down the windows, and press and release the clutch pedal several times. If you hear whistling, squeaking, or mechanical rustling, the clutch release bearing is likely nearing the end of its life. This is a typical BRZ ailment that soon results in the need to replace the entire clutch kit.
• Signs of excessive track use: People often buy the BRZ for driving at the limit and so-called "track days." Carefully inspect the tire sidewalls (for "feathering" or tearing), the brakes, and look for signs of aftermarket modifications (marks on the shock absorber bolts). To rule out hidden damage to structural parts or the chassis after off-track excursions, a detailed technical inspection of the car is recommended.
• Interior and chassis noises: The stiffer suspension setup of the Subaru BRZ means that interior plastics take a beating on poor-quality roads. When driving over bumps, listen for significant thumps or creaks from the dashboard and the trunk area. While plastic creaking is more of a cosmetic flaw, metallic clicking from the rear can mean worn shock absorber mounts.

Sources: ADAC, novinky.cz, forbes.cz, autojournal.cz, motorvize.cz, autoperiskop.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.