…that is the question! More specifically, I’ve just taken delivery of my first MX-5 and would like to know more about its revered handling and what it really means. With 50:50 weight distribution and rear-wheel drive, what can I now do that I couldn’t in most other cars, and what does pressing “DSC Off” mean to the layman?!
I’ve not long had mine .I had dsc on a MINI it’s a get out of jail free card .Go beyond the cars limits and power delivery to wheels alters to try and get you out of trouble .DSC off means it you that’s in control and from what I have found the Mazda is so different in that you can really feel what is going on at each wheel.
My MX5 hasn’t got it .There have been a couple of times on wet roads that were greasy the tail end got a bit unruly .My advice get a road you know with a few bends and keep driving it .If anything like me you soon realise you press on more .Use the throttle to help balance the car .You may find yourself dropping gears and accelerating out of bends for the shear enjoyment of it.
We have a RX-8 with DSC (Direction Stability Control) and I find the system allows you to have a little bit of fun before it steps in to keep things in check. With DSC on, the back will step out a little on roundabouts if provoked and if left the system applies the brake on one, two or more wheels if things are really bad and also reduces throttle a little.
Another function of DSC is the old fashion traction control on slippery roads but as the name suggests it is to keep you stable in all directions not just forward.
My advice and that of many people is to leave the system on for everyday driving as it allows fun with reduced risk but if you’re on a track turn it off.
What must be remembered is it is not “a get out of jail free card”, like any systems it can only do so much so if you enter a corner too fast the laws of physics still apply and you can still come off badly.
I hope that helps.
I dont have it on my 5.
I’m not really too bothered about that, I quite like going sideways and I dont have to remember if its on or off and adjust my driving style accordingly.