There’s no better feeling than driving along with the top down on a hot summer day. With the wind in your hair, nothing but blue skies and your favourite track on the stereo, there’s finally something to smile about after the deep, dark winter months. The appeals of soft top motoring are very obvious, and there’s no better way to experience them than with a Mazda MX5. Now in its third generation, the MX5 has been going strong since 1989, and has shown no sign of slowing down. It is without doubt one of the most popular roadsters ever produced because it is the true definition of value. Compared to the big BMWs and Mercedes, the MX5 could be bought with pocket money- it is cheap. But it also punches well above its weight, and the quality of drive puts the aforementioned big boys to shame. With the Mazda then, you get a lot of bang for your buck. The Mazda MX5 doesn’t rely on technology to make it go, like some other car manufacturers. Good old fashioned engineering keeps it straight and true. Instead of tiptronic, hydroelectric, supersonic gears, you get a straight forward manual. And a steering wheel. Simplicity is where the MX5 comes into its own. It is just a “get in and drive” kind of motor. And boy does it deliver- the handling is sharp and precise, there’s mountains of grip to take you round even the tightest of corners, and then enough grunt to give you a surprise on the way out. Add to that an easy to operate convertible roof and you can see why the Mazda is so popular. If paying full price for a brand new one is just not possible, go second hand! One of the best places to look for a used car for sale is the internet. There are loads of second hand car sites out there, but two of the best are Teletext cars and Carsource, simply due to the amount and quality of cars listed. You’ll definitely find a bargain as a typical used car for sale can carry a huge reduction from retail price. The Mazda MX5 is a masterpiece of motoring. You don’t need a PhD to operate it, just get in and go. And keep going. It’s a real driver’s car, and is almost addictive. Without doubt, Mazda have created something extra special. So put the top down and see for yourself!