Auto News 5

Miles to date: 26,184
Months in service: 11

We love the Mazda Miata. The tiny, softtop sports car is a rare automotive species that generates unanimous enthusiasm from our staff. We've been smitten with the tossable, toy-like Mazda ever since its 1989 arrival. As proof of its enduring, universal appeal, the Miata can claim eleven Automobile Magazine All-Star awards and our inaugural Automobile of the Year honor. We love the Mazda Miata.

I'm adding the S4 to my informal list of "Cars I'd Buy if I Won the Lotto." Admittedly, there are snazzier choices on which to spend jackpot winnings, but the Audi S4 is unbelievably satisfying to drive. It all starts with the engine, a fantastic supercharged V-6 that provides truly energetic throttle response. It always has enough power, pulling steadfastly in every gear. The sound -- just a tiny hint of supercharger whine -- is exactly what you expect from a sports car, ranging from a growl when slipping the clutch to a bark if you rev-match downshifts. The clutch travel is quite long, but the engagement point is firm and easy to modulate. Like most Volkswagen/Audi products, the six-speed manual is very precise and easy to use but feels a little rubbery at times.