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Mazda MX 5 vs Toyota 86 - Head to Head

1,738 views · Published 23 June 2016 · 5:11 · Indexed 19 October 2026

Channel: Auto Focus · 2016 · Autos & Vehicles

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It may be a small segment of the market but we are always open to the idea of performance cars within reach. In 2012, Toyota gave us the 86 sports coupe and last year, Mazda launched the fourth generation MX-5 in the country. It is now time for these sporty cars to face off in this week's Head to Head.
Fun within reach is our theme in this week's head to head as we pit the Mazda MX-5 and the Toyota 86 together. Both of these cars promise tons of fun under two million pesos.

Open the hood of the Toyota 86 and you are greeted by a 2.0 liter, naturally aspirated four cylinder boxer engine than puts out 200 PS and 205 Nm of torque. In the Mazda MX-5, it is saddled by a 2.0 liter, naturally aspirated inline four engine with 160 PS and 200 Nm of torque. Both are available with either a six speed manual or six speed automatic with paddle shifters.

The Mazda MX-5 employs double wishbone suspension in front and a pair of multi-links at the back. Meanwhile, the Toyota 86 uses struts for its front suspension and a double wishbone setup at the rear. Both these sporty cars transfer their power via the rear wheels. 

Inside, the cabin of the Toyota 86 shows off the car's sporting character. The black interior is contrasted by red highlights on the steering wheel, shift knob, handbrake lever and door panels while imitation carbon fiber trim runs across the dashboard. A set of toggle switches operate the automatic climate control system a trio of knobs shaped like bolts control temperature and fan speed. The instrument panel shows all the basics such as speed, RPM, fuel meter and engine temperature but does not come with a multi-information display. 

Mazda's MX-5 interior on the other hand also features red highlights throughout the cabin and features a colored upper door panel that matches the color of the exterior. An infotainment screen is perched on top of the dashboard while three knobs operate the automatic climate control. The rest of the car's functions are controlled via a scroll wheel near the shifter. The dials on the MX-5 offers a multi-information display that shows fuel economy, range and more.

Speaking of infotainment systems, the Mazda's center screen not only takes care of audio but also displays more vehicle information with a more detailed look at the car's status. It also includes CD, MP3, Bluetooth and auxilary functions. For those not used to scroll wheels when unsing infotainment screens, Mazda's system can also be operated by touch. With the manual transmission, the MX-5 is equipped with six speakers while the top-spec automatic gets an upgraded Bose sound system.



The Toyota 86 on the other hand comes with a 2-DIN audio system although a touch screen is optional on all variants. Toyota's sports coupe packs six speakers in its cabin.

While both serve the same purpose of delivering fun, each come in different bodystyles with the Toyota being a coupe and the MX-5 being a roadster. The Toyota 86 front fascia is best described as aggressive with a deep chin spoiler, sharp-looking headlights and large air intake with a honeycomb pattern. The side features many creases on the bodywork and boldly shows the 86 padge on the fender. The sloping roofline blends into the trunk, giving the 86 a fastback profile. Clear tailights and rear bumper with diffusers complete the look of the 86. For those who want to stand out more, Toyota also offers a TRD package that adds a body kit and a large rear wing.
The MX-5 on the other hand mixes aggressive lines and soft curves throughout the body. Its proportions are classic roadster with its long hood and short trunk. At the front of the car, you will see slim headlights, a large air intake and LED daytime running lights. The wide fenders give the MX-5 a wide stance on the road and the tail lights are a nod to past MX-5s. To enjoy open top motoring, just flip one lever and push the roof back into its compartment. Putting the roof back on is as simple as pulling it up and locking it into place.

These sports cars pack an array of safety systems to keep you out of harm's way. Both are equipped with ABS, traction control and stability control. As for airbag count, the MX-5 comes with four while the 86 has six.

As for prices, the Mazda MX-5 A/T starts at Php 1,860,000 and comes fully loaded. The top spec Toyota 86 with an automatic transmission and Aero Package starts at Php 1,946,000. 

Choosing between the two will be difficult as both offer fun that won't break the bank. Visit your nearest Mazda or Toyota dealership to see which one suits you best. Either way, you won't regret these fun sports cars.

And that concludes our head to head between the Toyota 86 and Mazda MX-5. These two cars prove that you don't have to spend a lot of money to get a thrilling drive.

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