So Jalponik, in more than one article (you only linked one) blamed Autopilot, even though several commenters (myself included) proved it wouldn’t be possible simply because of the rate of acceleration that had to happen and where it happened.

Months later, what we already knew is proven.  Now you decide to lean towards…

This.

And as a former Miata owner, replacing a top is expensive too.  Leave nothing of real value in the car. 

To be fair bad power steering and horrible brake pads would actually make it a little easier to drive in the snow. People tend to have issues when they over-correct. Agree with everything you've said though.

Side note for the Aussies that own Falcons in the room: Your late model Falcon is designed from factory to J turn as a requirement of various state law enforcement agencies. A J turn can actually be performed with stability control 'on' and is tested repeatedly by Bosch engineers to ensure it can perform the maneuver…