IN the somewhat clinical world of electric cars and hybrids the Mazda MX-5 shines out like a beacon to those who enjoy real motoring.

This trendy little two-seater convertible has been around since 1989, and despite serious competition has managed to retain its love affair with the seat of the pants, wind in the hair driving enthusiast.

And despite the varying and numerous improvements to keep it fresh Mazda has cleverly retained the basic shape - although now with far more flare and stylish contours - so there's no mistaking any of the models built in the last 35 years.

With its front engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration and short throw six-speed manual gearbox the MX-5 is the archetypal roadster.

Today there's an eight-model range including four convertibles and four of the more expensive RF (retractable fastback) models, which have electrically folding metal roofs. There are also three trim levels available and two engine sizes, a 1.5-litre and a 2.0-litre.

Prices range from £28,000 to £37,000.

The model I opted for was the more traditional 1.5-litre, two-seater roadster with its manually folding canvass roof, which can be lowered in seconds even from in the driving seat. And if it rains it's just as quick to put it back up again.

And the nice thing about the MX-5 is that it's one of the few drop-top cars designed to genuinely allow you to drive with the roof folded down without getting buffeted by the wind, helped, in part by a clever little plastic wind deflector that fits in between the seats but is removable in seconds.

The height, or lack of it, means you have to be reasonably agile to get into the car and once inside it's a snug but comfortable fit but with little space for personal items except for a compartment between the backrests and a more discreet but difficult to get to one hidden behind the passenger seat.

In true sports car style the car seems to wrap itself around you as you settle into the comfortable rally-style seats which are not only heated but have Bose speakers built into the headrests for easy listening even with the roof lowered.

In front of the driver there's a three dial binnacle with, as you would expect, the rev counter being the dominant central one. And - a rarity today - there's a leather-bound manual handbrake on the transmission tunnel.

Push the starter button and there's a nice throaty roar from the 132bhp engine, a unit which is perfectly suited to this car, delivering a lively but manageable performance so you can enjoy the MX-5's strengths to the full but still feel relaxed.

The MX-5 is a very agile mover which is perfect for country roads, and the small turning circle ensures easy manoeuvring.

Changes to the car for 2024 include a new LED headlight design which incorporates the daytime running lights as well as new LED rear lights. And changes in the cabin include a larger, 8.8-inch, touch screen and extra USB ports.

Apart from that it's business as usual. But why would you mess about too much with a model that has been going from strength to strength for more than three decades.

There are a couple of things I would have liked to see in the car; a reversing camera (standard on more expensive models in the range) and folding exterior mirrors to help prevent damage when left on car parks but that apart the MX-5 is a great car - particularly when the sun shines.