The Miata's advantages in the market are that it has little competition — and none with anywhere near its two decades of refinement and evolution. There's almost a $10,000 span between the base-priced soft-top and a Grand Touring hardtop loaded with every option I could pile on — including the automatic transmission, Premium Package and run-flat tires — for a total of $32,090 with the destination charge. Even so, this is below the starting price of a Honda S2000 ($34,995), let alone luxury roadsters from Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz (base priced from around $35,000 to $46,000). Fortunately, the fun comes standard in the most affordable model.

If fun isn't your thing, don't drive the Miata. In fact, don't even look at one. And don't click on the thumbnails to the right. You might be tempted.