ORIGINAL: Foxy
AutoXman, while the Miata is good and close in performance to the S (on a track, in a straight line it's not even close), the S does have a special feeling to drive. 50-50 weight distribution is really an unusual feeling when combined with the fact that you are sat EXACTLY in the centre of the car. It really feels like the car moves around you, rather you moving with the car. Hope I got that across ok, it's kinda hard to describe, very confidence inspiring though.
I know what you mean, my lincolln would destroy the miata in a striaght line, but be terrible at AutoX. For a 140 HP car it is amazing what the miata can keep up with on a road course or especially autoX. Seems to be the most competitive/affordable option for me at this point.