Auto Express takes the new 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata and the Toyota GT86 (aka Scion FR-S) to the track to see which can clock the faster lap time in this latest head-to-head battle for bragging rights.

The hardtop does not turn the Miata into a do-it-all grand tourer, nor is the car an all-powerful track-day special to deliver exceptional lap times. Objectively, it is a tiny, compromised car.

Take the mechanical bits of one 1990-2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata, add in a tube chassis for as little weight as possible, complete with some custom body work and go forth. Bauer says the finished ...

Lotus and Mazda have been the masters of offering budget-busting sports cars for the masses; now as a new era blooms for Lotus, has it perfected its formula? And can the mighty Miata still compete?