Refreshing or Revolting: 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

The 2017 Mazda Miata RF with its power operated targa top may have been the biggest surprise from the 2016 New York auto show. The new variant is the closest thing available for those wanting a Miata coupe. It’s also closer to a closed coupe than the previous-generation Mazda Miata PRHT. Here is a look at the differences between the third-generation Miata PRHT and the new Miata RF.

Since we’ve already discussed the styling differences between the third- and fourth-generation Miata roadsters, we’ll focus on the changes related to the retractable roofs.

The power folding roof of the Mazda Miata PRHT disappears almost completely in the same well as the soft-top variant (the front section of the roof is partially exposed from the half-length tonneau cover). But the new Mazda Miata RF keeps its flying buttress C-pillars intact regardless of the roof position.

From the front three-quarter view with the top up, the Miata RF’s faux quarter-windows and fixed C-pillars give the car a racy look, while the Miata PRHT’s roof appears to stop abruptly aft of the doors. From the side profile, the Miata PRHT’s stubby roof and tonneau cover cut lines are even more noticeable with the top up, whereas the Miata RF’s side profile makes it look like a sporty coupe.

 

With the top down, the Miata PRHT looks more like the standard Miata soft-top than the Miata RF looks like the ND roadster. That’s because the RF’s set of C-pillars remain in place after the roof panel is retracted. The new Mazda Miata RF’s side appearance is more like that of a Porsche 911 Targa or C7 Chevrolet Corvette when the roof panel is stowed beneath the tonneau cover.

From the back, the Miata PRHT’s short roofline and shallow raked rear window give it a long deck look. The Miata RF’s fastback C-pillars gives the sports car a racier appearance. Those C-pillars also mask the angle of the rear glass, which appears less raked than on the PRHT model. The Miata RF’s rear window is similar to the second-generation Toyota MR-2, Pontiac Fiero GT, and Honda Del Sol.

Which power-retractable-roof Miata variant do you prefer: the previous-generation Mazda Miata PRHT or the new 2017 Mazda Miata RF? Share your thoughts below.

Last week we looked at the new 2017 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, which received lots of comments.

Fans of the new ZL1 included Patrick Kinnamon, who said: “Definitely refreshing. Whereas the last ZL1’s distinguishing components had a decidedly bolted-on, aftermarket appearance, the new model has a cohesive look that suits its world-beater status.” Imajerk17 echoed those sentiments: “Refreshing. That car looks both slick and really aggressive. It should be a huge improvement over the old car, not only in styling, but also in handling, ride, and acceleration.”

Although most comments were positive, a few people weren’t in love with the new styling: 6stringster said, “I know it’s a great car but it looks too overdone for my taste…they should have made it more sleek rather than muscular…Mustangs look better…” And RodTM thought, “It looks ‘boy racer’ because that’s what GM thinks the video game crowd wants in a car.  Does the Mustang look better? Yes.  Does the Challenger look better?  Yes.”

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