the new mx-5 is suprisingly good....fun car to drive. Even though it lacks the power of the skyline - it has great throttle response. For some reason it felt like the take off from the lights was quicker than the skyline (but then again my r33 is now 11 years old). Engine loves to rev, and can do it without any trouble whatsoever. Clutch is very very light, and the handling...omg - just awesome. The 6spd manual was just perfect for quick changes. There is a business park behind monash uni in clayton, where me and my bro took the mx5 for a test drive....just unreal! There was a huge difference over the previous model - the new one is more sportier, and smoother to drive.
But having said all that - whether or not its worth the 45-50k price tag is another thing (specially for a new/demo car). Mazda on springvale rd here in vic wanted to sell me one for 42k - i couldnt afford it. They offered 9k for the skyline as at trade in. for around 30-35k, the new mx5 will def be worth the money i reckon.
But everything else was just mad - good if one is not keen on doing track work or deca or spirited driving - the car is basically a cruiser.