You have to think of it being a five speed plus overdrive although that doesn't make first any better. I agree re the 5 speed MX5 box, my M3W had one and it was a delight to use with seemingly perfect ratio's for that torquey V twin.
Richard
2018 Roadster 3.7 1966 Land Rover S2a 88 2024 Royal Enfield Guerrilla 450 1945 Guzzi Airone