Up until a few weeks ago, I needed a new hobby. I've tried golf, and fishing. Nope. I am a photographer of sorts but it's now not really a hobby but rather a chore. Motorcycling is my #1 choice as a hobby but the missus of 31 years doesn't like them, so I have to keep the peace. Exit motorcycles. Enter the Mazda MX-5.
I am a newbie in the Miata/MX5 world. I did a lot of research for 3-4 months and drove some for-sale vehicles, settling on a 1989, well kept, fairly low km red NA. I can't keep driving the thing. We are incredibly blessed to be literally 3 minutes drive from some of Australia's most beautiful country roads. My son and I have set out a nice twisty circuit via Bruxner Park, Bucca Rd, Redbank Rd then home to Coffs Hbr via Coramba Rd. It is a hoot. Waiving at the dairy cows on the deserted roads, wind blowing past my hair...er..um..ears. (Hair is a distant memory).
Here are my initial impressions. The Mazda 1.6 needs to be revved. The harder you work it, the better it feels. The 18" low profiles grip like a rail. The non-powered steering is great. Work the gearbox, touch the brakes, pick a corner apex, hit the throttle and away we go. My son drove the circuit last Saturday and he, Holden man and Mazda skeptic, was very impressed. "Dad, it's just like a go-kart." "Yes son, and keep your mitts off it!"
It's a barrel of fun to drive, and fun is good therapy indeed.
Ozi.
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