Japan vs Japan — 2015 vs 2005
| MX-5 ND RF | MX-5 NC Sport | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 184 hp | 170 hp |
| Torque | 151 lb-ft | 140 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,998 cc | 1,999 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 6.3 sec | 6.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 136 mph | 135 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.6 sec | 15.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,449 lbs | 2,420 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,310 mm | 2,330 mm |
| Length | 3,915 mm | 3,990 mm |
| Original MSRP | $37,680 | $25,240 |
| Value (Excellent) | $40,000 | $22,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 3/10 | 3/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 2015 Mazda MX-5 ND RF brings quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 2005 Mazda MX-5 NC Sport answers with better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Mazda MX-5. The 2015 and 2005 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 2015 Mazda MX-5 ND RF producing 184 hp and the 2005 Mazda MX-5 NC Sport delivering 170 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mazda MX-5 uses a Inline-4 DOHC SkyActiv-G displacing 1,998 cc, while the Mazda MX-5 relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16-valve MZR with 1,999 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2015 Mazda MX-5 ND RF edges ahead at 6.3 seconds versus 6.5 seconds. On the collector market, the 2015 Mazda MX-5 ND RF commands a significant premium over the 2005 Mazda MX-5 NC Sport, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.