Miata as first car? Suggestions?

[Goodspeed]

I don't think you'd have much to lose from going to that dealer and asking for a ride. Tell them you're interested in Miatas but aren't great at driving stick, and they'd probably be willing to let you take the helm somewhere flat and uncrowded to zip around for a bit. The 5 speed is just about the most positive, easy shifting gearbox out there so I don't think you'd have much trouble. They might tell you to pound sand, or they might humor you (and honestly they'd probably be happy to have an excuse to drive it).