Originally Posted by Zala

While I agree with you on a lot of points and the overall theme of your opinion, I disagree that it is today's poor man's sports car. Assuming with thinking about 2 seat coupes and not 2+2 (disqualifies BRZ/FRS), that pretty much puts the latest (ND) and last generation (NC) miata as the crown holder. Say what you want about it, but it's the most affordable sports car you can buy new in dedicated soft top or a hardtop/hybrid couple both countering regular and convertible Z.



You allude to it as well, but the Z is pretty pricey for the target market it is trying to appeal to, which is the affordable sports car buyer. Parts (maintenance and aftermarket), insurance, and fuel consumption do not favor it against other cars said buyer could choose instead.



Personally, I think 1-2 year old prices of these Zs are truly where the price market should have been new. I've purchased a new Z in the past (2010 sport+touring) and a 1 year old used Nismo (2016 tech). It's no surprise that I got way more car for nearly the same cash.



That's probably what hurts the Z the most. A lot of people in this segment have to make a choice rather than have multiple vehicles and lots of other choices have far more practicality, affordability, and/or power for around the same cash spent.



Keep in mind, I love my Z and I'm glad I was able to pick one up before they change from the traditional NA 6 cylinder coupe I find makes it different than my other cars (turbo hatch and a boosted miata coupe), therefore worth having to me.



Again, I agree with you on a lot of points, especially about cars having more than enough power for the street. I personally find any car below a 13Lbs/1HP ratio to be plenty fun for the street. My cars range from 7.9 to 12.8 at this point, so I have a good idea about what's probably too much to fully use around town.



I personally hope the Z evolves and continues to stay relatively attainable and a fun to drive. I find it hard to justify shelling out more than $50k for a loaded car, but I'm obviously spoiled by today's cheap speed options. :-)