The 6-speed manual is the enthusiast (and value) choice, carrying a premium over the automatic; the auto's 'penalty' can be offset by rarity, condition or low mileage. The 6-speed automatic itself is well regarded, shifting quickly and fun in manual mode — 'almost' as engaging as the clutched car.
Transmission: manual prized, automatic penalized but capable
Mazda MX-5 Miata (NC) · variant