In a world as scripted as pro wrestling, every once in a while a new superstar bursts on the scene with an undeniable charisma that makes everyone sit up and take notice.

But as time moves on, they get older, softer and flabbier, losing some of that luster that initially made them a fan favorite. But just when you think they’re completely played out, the truly great entertainers remember what made them successful. They reinvent themselves, return to form and come back stronger than ever.

This is more or less the story of the Mazda MX-5 Miata. A complete coup d’état in the world of sports cars in 1989, the Miata turned performance car convention on its head. Not only was a small Japanese manufacturer making a raw, exhilarating roadster, but it was also completely reliable and affordable.

As time rolled on, the MX-5 Miata grew in popularity, performance and, unfortunately, weight. Like most of us, after 25 years of hard work, the MX-5 was no longer as svelte and razor sharp as it once was.