The main complaint handed to the NC MX-5 was that it wasn't as pure as the previous generation. It was seen as both a heavier and softer version that came as a contrast to the uncompromising approach Mazda previously took in terms of minimalism and lightness. Mazda made the NC larger and more comfortable, and with that came that extra size and weight.

The bottom line when looking at it today is that the NC isn't as small and light as the NB generation that proceeded it, or as sharp handling as the current ND generation. However, for perspective, it still only weighs 2,450 lbs. And while it may not be quite as sharp as the aggressive NB Miata, that's a high bar and falling just short of it still leaves an impressive handling car.