Should you buy one?

Yes, but only if you really want a hardtop or automatic gearbox. You see, the Mazda MX-5 RF is a very likeable car, with an unusual style all of its own. But the regular Mazda MX-5 does virtually the same for a bit less money.

The more expensive BMW Z4 comes with a fabric roof and a much higher quality interior, while the Toyota GR86 offers greater performance but no roofless option.

The MX-5 RF is a little heavier than its fabric-topped sibling and the slightly stiffer suspension that compensates means it compromises a little on low-speed comfort. However, the hard-top roof is better at isolating you from the noisy outside world, as well as the weather, so if that means you get to drive it more often in the colder winter months, that makes it more worthwhile, doesn’t it?

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Ultimately, the MX-5 RF almost serves as a relaxed grand-tourer version of the roadster, but it’s a bit of a mixed bag. The engines are a little quieter, the lighter controls make it a little easier to drive, but it’s a shame the wind noise is so great when the roof is open, because when the roof is closed, it’s quieter and more comfortable than the soft-top.

What we like

If you’re likely to cover more motorway miles than average in your MX-5, or particularly like the look of the RF’s lines, there’s much here to enjoy. The RF’s electric folding roof mechanism is super easy to use too.

What we don’t like

Taller drivers, be warned. Although the roofline is slightly taller, headroom is still very tight. Ironically, the roadster’s more supple suspension means the RF isn’t as comfortable as it could be, either. It may sound like we’re nit-picking and being fussy, but in short, the MX-5 hasn’t been ruined in RF form, it’s just not the best version in the range.