[Miata] First Winter Drive

[Dillon]

I made it.  I-90 was clear all the way from the loop to the Hampshire exit
with no problems.  There were some cars/trucks off the road from earlier in
the storm I assume.

Overall, I have to say I am very impressed with the Miata's winter handling
capabilities.  On the country roads after I got off the highway there was a
lot of hardpacked snow and ice on the roads.  The Miata could easily hold
traction as long as I was easy on the accelerator.

I had one minor scare where i drifted to close to the center hump of snow
and that sent the rear end fishtailing.  I was able to recover by holding
the throttle steady and steering my way straight.  Lots of cars I've driven
would have gone sideways in a heartbeat after a fishtail like that.

On the roads alone I spent some time playing a little and practicing panic
stops and trying to bust the rear-end out.  The car was incredibly
predictable and recovery was easy.

Once I got home, however, I had issues.  The county had plowed a mound over
the entrance to my driveway.  I had to park my car at the local pub and go
get a shovel.  Once I got the car into the driveway, I promptly got it stuck
and needed help to get it parked.

Overall, I have to say I'm pretty happy.  A Miata with snow tires is a real
treat to drive, provided that the snow has been plowed down enough to fit
under the front bumper :)
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