SPORTS cars are all about fun and the Mazda MX-5 delivers this by the bucketful. The modern classic has had a wealth of updates over the years but it still sticks to its basic recipe of being a real driver’s car with the front engine and rear drive set-up staying the same.

There is a better choice of models and equipment with improved motors and suspension, a stiffer body and sharper handling to help make the latest MX-5 the best ever.

There have been styling changes, too, aimed at giving the car a beefier, more modern look instead of the simple, flowing lines of the earlier model. There are some enthusiasts who say that the new look means a loss of some style – yet nobody doubts the dynamic forward progress made by Mazda.

The real emphasis has always been on the mechanical slickness and balanced handling, which remain the main attractions and guarantee to put a smile on the driver’s face.

With the British weather so unpredictable, the versatile Roadster coupe is proving one of the more popular versions. And the 168ps 2.0-litre, with its short-throw gear change, is also a favourite choice, not necessarily for its outright punch over the 1.8-litre but for its smoother power delivery and better cruising ability.

The MX-5 is often referred to as one of Britain’s best budget sports cars and it is, but with the addition of such a wealth of equipment and refinement nowadays, prices can look rather tall.

Take the 2.0-litre Roadster coupe with an option pack. It can set you back £19,892 on the road, though the price is very competitive when you consider it boasts a lot of extra kit over the base 1.8-litre model.

The real advantage with the Roadster coupe is its retractable roof and rear window, which fold away in a matter of seconds. They disappear into a compartment behind the seats, ensuring no loss of boot space.

The option-pack car is loaded with goodies which include dynamic stability control, traction control, limited slip differential and side airbags. There are Bilstein dampers and special struts for the sports suspension, 16-inch alloy wheels and heated leather seats.

You’ll find the latest versions of the MX-5 line-up are more rewarding to drive, too. The roadster coupe, for instance, feels much stiffer and more responsive than earlier cars and the strong performance of the 2.0-litre enables the chassis to be exploited to its full potential.

The ride is very firm yet well controlled, noise is evident from the road and wind and you’ll have to really dap your foot on the throttle to get the best out the motor. But the great handling, fast acceleration and sporty exhaust more than compensate.

Inside, there is a surprising amount of space. There are plenty of cubby holes for storing smaller items and the boot space is generous enough to swallow a couple of smaller suitcases.

A big advantage of buying the Mazda is that it is well proven and shouldn’t need costly specialist attention to keep it on the road.

General running costs are also good and resale values remain high, partly due to the good looks, durability and reliability of the model.

At-a-glance

Mazda MX-5 Roadster coupe 2.0i option pack. Price: £19,892 (on the road). Top speed: 131mph. 0-62mph: 7.9 seconds. Fuel: 36.7mpg (combined figure). Emissions C02 (g/km): 183. Verdict: One of the best sports cars, strong engines, involving handling and affordable running costs, first-rate electric roof but the car is not very practical.