Smaller and lighter than the NC, the ND chassis MX-5 is commonly compared with the original NA. In reality, the ND is more like an NB built with the most refined approach Mazda could muster. It's not as roly-poly playful as the original Miata, and in later models is actually quite a serious little sportscar.
Which is not to say it isn't incredibly good fun. Apart from the electric power steering being less talkative than in previous Miatas, the ND is lean, athletic, and poised. The suspension is slightly soft, which can teach a novice driver a great deal about weight transfer, and is very approachable. Add a few minor suspension tweaks, and it's a wee scalpel of a thing.