The Mazda Miata/MX-5 is one of the most successful sports cars of all time. It’s probably the reason why our Miata/MX-5 buying guide is one of the most popular articles on our website – people just love these exciting little sports cars.
It is such a popular car, that when you ask people what sort of car you should buy if you want something sport, it turns out that Miata is always the answer.
The formula that has made the Miata so successful is rather simple:
Combine lightweight, rear-wheel drive, just enough power, excellent handling, and top-down fun with two seats – the sum of the parts being one of the most enjoyable driving experiences on the road.
There’s a reason why even people who can afford far more expensive, powerful and “better-on-paper” cars keep coming back to the Miata … the combination of these various elements is just so good, and keeps getting better over time (especially in a world where cars – although becoming ever more competent – are becoming increasingly detached from the driver).
As mentioned above, part of the formula that makes the Miata/MX-5 so successful is the top-down, two seater nature of the car.
But are all Miatas 2 seaters? Or is there a way to experience the Miata magic but with extra seats, so the whole family can partake?
In this very short edition of Car Facts, we answer that question.
All Miatas/MX-5s Are Two Seaters
It isn’t that complicated – from the factory, all Miatas/MX-5s produced have been two seaters.
That is the entire point of the car, after all!
These cars are “true” 2 seaters as well, insomuch that there is no attempt to install a basically useless rear seat and call it a 2+2 (like you see on the RX-7, for example).
There are two seats on the Miata, and that’s all you get!
However, there have been some brave people who have tried to modify theirs to feature more than two seats, such as this example here:
We would recommend steering well clear of any Miata that has been modified to have more than two seats. It would be very challenging to verify that the modifications have been performed to a competent and safe standard, and even if they were done properly, having more than two seats kind of spoils the whole purpose of the Miata, doesn’t it?
So if you’re asking whether all Miatas are two seaters, the answer is a resounding “yes” (at least for factory-standard cars).
If you want a convertible with more than two seats, then you’ll need to look elsewhere. However, if you’re happy to have a two seat car, then you cannot go wrong with a Miata.
Make sure you read our MX-5/Miata buying guide for detailed information on how to find, inspect and purchase your dream Miata. You might also like to check out our recent article on why the MX-5/Miata is such a popular car.
If you have any questions or queries, feel free to leave a comment below as well.
