the c30, v50, s40 is a mazda 3 chassis, actually produced by ford. I did own one (a T5), and they do handle well, but bitch please dont compare it to a miata.
I have owned a miata, and a currently own a mustang, so i feel relevant here. Noone buys an old mustang for lapping; they aint got time for dat. The miata is awesome, I loved mine all 100horsepower when wet and everything they are so much fun. I have always wanted an e30 though, love them, and they do handle well, power is ok.
I didnt help at all.