2026 MAZDA MX-5 Miata Vs. 2026 MAZDA MX-5 Miata RF

2026 Mazda MX-5 Miata

2026 MAZDA MX-5 Miata ST

vs. 

2026 MAZDA MX-5 Miata RF

3

Trims

2

2.0L DOHC 4-cylinder SKYACTIV®-G engine

Base Engine

2.0L DOHC 4-cylinder SKYACTIV®-G engine

181 hp

Maximum Available Horsepower

181 hp

Yes

Apple CarPlay®

Yes

Manually retractable

Roof

Electronically retractable

Whether you need to downsize to a smaller vehicle or want something more sporty to drive around Sarasota, we suggest the Mazda MX-5 Miata. You can choose from the Mazda MX-5 Miata or the Mazda MX-5 Miata RF. What’s the difference between these two models? We compare the Mazda MX-5 Miata RF and the Mazda MX-5 specs and other features in more detail below to help you decide which you prefer.

We encourage you to read our guide and schedule a test drive of your favorite Mazda MX-5 Miata at our dealership. 

MAZDA MX-5 Miata Vs. MAZDA MX-5 Miata RF: Trims

The only noticeable difference between these two vehicles’ lineups is that the Mazda MX-5 Miata offers the Sport trim, while the Mazda MX-5 Miata RF only offers the Club and Grand Touring trims. 

2026 MAZDA MX-5 Miata 

  • Sport 
  • Club
  • Grand Touring

2026 MAZDA MX-5 Miata RF

  • Club
  • Grand Touring

Easily find your preferred Mazda MX-5 Miata trim by using the vehicle finder tool on our website. 

MAZDA MX-5 Miata Vs. MAZDA MX-5 Miata RF: Performance

Both of these models share the 2.0L SKYACTIV®-G engine, which means that no matter which model Tampa drivers choose, they’ll be able to achieve the same level of performance. 

MAZDA MX-5 Miata RF & MAZDA MX-5 Miata Specs

  • Standard 2.0L DOHC 4-cylinder SKYACTIV®-G engine
  • Up to 181 hp
  • Up to 151 lb-ft of torque
  • Standard SKYACTIV®-MT 6-speed manual transmission
  • Available 6-speed Sport automatic transmission

Schedule a test drive of any Mazda MX-5 Miata at Cox Mazda. 

MAZDA MX-5 Miata Vs. MAZDA MX-5 Miata RF: Roof

As you’ve noticed, the Mazda MX-5 Miata RF and Mazda MX-5 Miata specs are practically identical. The major difference between these two vehicles is the roof. The Mazda MX-5 Miata offers a manually operated cloth convertible soft top. The Mazda MX-5 Miata RF, on the other hand, offers a hard, electronically operated retractable fastback roof, controlled by a switch in the center console. 

2026 MAZDA MX-5 Miata 

  • Cloth convertible soft-top roof
  • Manually operated

2026 MAZDA MX-5 Miata RF

  • Hard retractable fastback roof
  • Electronically operated via a center console switch

MAZDA MX-5 Miata Vs. MAZDA MX-5 Miata RF: Shared Amenities

Since both models are incredibly similar, you’ll be able to enjoy many of the same amenities with each one. Some of the key features these vehicles share include: 

  • Apple CarPlay® integration
  • Android Auto™ integration
  • Alexa built-in
  • Bluetooth® hands-free phone and audio streaming capability
  • 8.8-inch full-color center display
  • Infotainment system voice command
  • And more

Test-Drive The MAZDA MX-5 Miata Or MX-5 RF In Bradenton

Which Mazda MX-5 Miata will you choose? We can’t make the decision for you, but we can certainly help you decide. We’re conveniently located near Palmetto, and we look forward to answering any questions you have about either model. Don’t forget that we have plenty of new vehicle specials that can help you save significantly on your next purchase or lease.

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