1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata

This is the original Miata, the car that brought back the affordable two-seat convertible for a new generation. It's light and nimble, with a manual shifter that feels like it was made for your hand and a chassis that talks to you on every corner. The cabin is snug and simple, with just enough room for two and a trunk that fits a weekend bag. These cars are famously durable and easy to work on, which is why so many are still on the road today. This is the only trim for the 1990 Miata, so your choices are the color and whether you want a hardtop later. Its 1.6L I4 makes 116 horsepower and 100 lb-ft of torque, routed through a five-speed automatic to the rear wheels, which is fine for cruising but not as engaging as the manual most Miata fans prefer. You'll get 24 mpg combined from the automatic, which is respectable but trades some of the car's character for convenience.