I've always dreamed of buying a convertible, but the impracticality of owning one makes it hard to fork over all that loot.
I've noticed that prices for older model Miata's have dropped drastically over the past year. It seems like for under $3000, I can own a very nice 1991 model Miata.
Does anyone own an older model Miata? Any problems? Mazda has always had a reputation of being very reliable automobiles, but buying a 10 year old car sort of scares me. But for a car to fart around in, it may not be that bad.
I don't think you'll find a very nice one for $3,000, although I hope you do of course. More like $5,000 for a very clean, well-maintained car that you don't have to do anything to, or much to. If you buyta $3,000 Miata that needs a top, four tires and a little bodywork, it's a $5,000 Miata after all.
Not much to worry about on the older Miatas (most early defects have probably been fixed by now anyway) but as you say, a ten year old car needs a good looking-over. And like any car, after 150K miles or so, the thing's pretty worn out. So I'd stay with 100K miles or under if you can.
Looks like I won't be getting a Miata any time soon. My parents nixed that idea saying the car was too small. Ah well.....I guess I'll just have to drive my Volvo for a while longer. Maybe I'll upgrade the stereo again..........
Anyway......Thanks for all the help you guys gave me. Y'all really know your stuff.
sorry to hear that sisko, but...too small? too small for what? not exactly the vehicle I'll be taking my clothes to the laundrymat with but hey...we all have to make a few sacrifices in our lives...ok, hopefully *prays* I get my 2000 Miata tomorrow....well see what happens
I agree with Shifty on the $3k Miata. I found that even $5-6k samples aren't in the best shape. If you can spend $8k or so, you can find a low mileage Miata with all the servicing current.
What's $8k when the average transaction price for a new car is $24,800? (source: NADA)
Point out to your parents that reputable studies show that, for younger drivers, the probability of a crash increases as the number of passengers in the vehicle increases. (They'll probably remove the back seat in the Volvo)
Let us know what you find, that is really cheap. When I was looking 6 months ago, decent '94s were going for at least twice that much. I would look at it with a very suspicious eye.
Ha Ha! I got approved for credit... On my own. No co-signer needed. My first NEW car... It's a demo but it's all the same.. Working at a dealership has such nice advantages sometimes ) I'll sign and pick it up tomorrow! I'm so excited! It's gonna be such a fun toy for the summer... can't wait till the weather get's nicer. One question though... does this thing have tilt wheel? LOL... who cares, fun and comfort don't always have to mix.
Prices seem to have dropped around here, and Edmunds values are much lower now than when I purchased mine. I'm still right around the target price, but it's no longer the steal it was back then.
Bad news though - I was hit today by a careless Saab driver. He changed lanes right into me, "CRUNCH". It was an awful sound. Noone was hurt, but Blanca suffered a damanged passenger side quarter panel and door.
Interestingly, the brand-new Saab 9-3 suffered far more damage. His bumper fell off completely, wires hanging all over the place, and some lights broke. I think he had hood and quarter panel damage to.
So I'm off to call his insurance and collect, then to the body shop. Bummer.
At least noone was hurt, and the Miata held up like a champ. No frame or suspension damage, and he hit me hard.
I haven't had to chance to run to the place that ran the ad for the 94 Miata for $4500. It does sound like a sweet deal. I'm in the middle of moving into a new apartment, and you know what a pain that is. Hopefully, they'll still have it over the weekend. I'd love to take a look.
But honestly, it does seem that prices for the Miata's have gone down dramatically. I think with the inception of the new model, the older ones have depreciated alot.
Crashton6 could be right also. Selling a convertible in January must be like selling a snowmobile in June. Ha, ha. But I'll tell you, I have visions of driving around in a convertible soon. The weather's turning nice and it would kick [non-permissible content removed] to hit the road with a 360 degree view.
I live in Northeastern PA, and have been driving a 96 Miata for 1 1/2 years. I'm sure I don't have to tell you that I love it. However, I've been thinking about selling it in favor of something that is better in the winter. This winter, I've been driving it when at all possible. OK, my question is--has anyone ever put snow tires on one and driven it on snow-covered roads (I'm not talking about several inches, but covered)?
when you say covered, are you saying more then several inches or do you mean just covering the pavement. A lot of people worry about snow, and many will reccomend you get a winter car. The one and only problem with the Miata in the snow is clearance, and it would take quite a few inches to get to that problem, which would mean you live in an area where it snows a lot and the streets aren't plowed. Otherwise stick some snows on, (better yet, get some steel 14 inch rims for it too, and you will get by just fine. Rwd in snow tends to be a bigger problem for people who haven't tried it yet!
I see Miata's all the time around Toronto in the winter, and I myself drove a 5.0 mustang without any problems. I'll be buying my Miata with no concerns about the winter.
on miata.net, a '90 with 140K miles, asking price of $3,900. high miles but probably well kept up. the kicker is that it comes with a hardtop, the value of which alone is $800 to $900. i guess the prices are coming down. doesn't matter, though, i'm not giving up my current one, which is my third since they came out.
freddy k, thanks for the insite on winter driving. i have an ad in the paper to sell my miata, but i'm really ambivalent. this saturday may definitely see me putting snow tires on it. or, what the heck, it's already february and, theoretically, there should only be six more weeks of winter. unfortunately, the other down side of driving it in the winter is that i have to leave it outside. mine has the tan leather top, but so far the cold and snow doesn't seem to be harming it. anyone have any thoughts on that?
OMIGOSH, put some snow tires on that car right away! It does *wonders* for the drivability of the car in the winter when the roads are covered with snow or ice or slush. These days, after experiencing the benefit of snow tires on a normal car, I can't imagine driving the Miata around with all-seasons.
WarpDrive, I think the ad's coming out of the paper and I'll spring for a set of snow tires instead. I know it would break my heart to part with this car. I'm not faint-hearted when it comes to driving in the snow, but I just want to be equipped for slippery roads. Any need to load up the trunk for extra traction?
Talking to some other local Miata enthusiasts, most of them don't bother with the loading up the trunk trick stating that it throws out the handling balance.
Because the Miata is a well balanced car with a small engine and it isn't nose heavy. there is not much point in wasting valuable storage space, (although one bag of salt or sand couldn't hurt, just in case)
The Subie idea sure isn't a bad one. I drove nothing else for 15 years. Only got away from them because the bodies didn't seem to hold up as well as the mechanics. Unfortunately, they're calling for snow here tomorrow and I haven't had a chance to get new tires, so looks like the Miata stays home and the Blazer goes for a ride!
Read your question on seatbelts last night. Sorry about the delay in my response: my Gateway computer crashed again, and Juno keeps disconnecting.
I prefer the harness style set up where the car's seatbelt goes through the harness With the other style you have to hook onto the car's seatbelt, which is harder to do (especially with one hand) and provides too much play.
Hello all...I am about to purchase my first Miata! I have wanted one since 1989. Finally, I am getting a 2001 at the end of this month or beginning of next month. I was wondering if anyone can tell me about the "crystal blue metallic" color. It appears to be teal in the brochure, but I was wondering if it is actually the same color as the blue that was used on the 1996 models? As of right now, I have ordered the midnight blue mica but can still change if I do so within the next week. No dealers in this area have either color in stock yet. Thanks much for any information.
duncan 164, I got a good look at both the Midnight Blue and Crystal Blue colors at an auto show last month. IMHO, the Midnight was GORGEOUS ... MUCH snappier than on the website. I plan to get my first Miata by the end of the year, and seeing this made my add it to my list (along with the Emerald). They both look great with the tan leather top & interior. They'd have most of the advantages (and, unfortunately, disadvantages) of a black car, while being a little more eye-catching.
However, the Crystal Blue is not for me. It's definitely not teal, just kind of an odd steel blue. It is similar to the blue of the 'James Bond' BMW Z3, but it's kind of flat ... not really blue or grey enough. It didn't help that the model I saw had tan leather. It would probably look better with black top/interior. I haven't seen the '96 color, so I'm no help there.
Can someone please help me? I have a 1994 Miata. The Zipper on the rear window goes down up to point and then goes no further. One upholstery shop I showed the car to said I would have to replace the whole top and wanted $800!! Is there any way I can loosen this sticking zipper? It seems the teeth have entangled themselves at that one spot where the zipper sticks.
HELLO. ID' LIKE SOME HELP WITH WHAT WOULD BE A GOOD OFFERING PRICE. I AM GOING TO LOOK AT A 2000 MIATA LS LEFTOVER FROM A MAZDA DEALER. ANY THOUGHTS ON A PRICE (WITHOUT A HARDTOP)?. HOW ABOUT A PRICE WITH A HARDTOP INCLUDED? THE CAR IS WHITE WITH BEIGE INTERIOR.THE DEALER IS IN LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK.
Word up all. I'm reading a small exerpt from this week's Auto Week and it states the following:
"• Finally, Hyundai takes a stab at pleasing both boomers and their young counterparts (X, Y, and mayb even Z generations) with the "affordable exotic" HCD6 roadster concept. The mid-engine two-seater is powered by a 2.7 liter dohc V6, visible via a see-through engine cover."
Does anyone know anything about this? I've never been a fan of Hyundai automobiles, but no one can say that they don't offer vehicles at very attractive prices.
There's a photo of the roadster in the mag, and I gotta say, it looks pretty sweet.
I've always wanted a convertible, but the impracticality of paying so much money for it made me reconsider. But if Hyundai can offer a comparable roadster with a V6 in the lower $10K's range ... things may change drastically.
That is the first I've heard of this. I have two thoughts, First Hyundai is "on the ropes" financially I wouldn't expect to many more of their concepts to make it into production. Second, on the V6 point, it's all power to weight ratio, with a 4400 lbs car, you want a V8, 2400 lbs (like a Miata) a fourbanger is just fine, no need for a V6 in a light roadster. My $0.02 ($0.0116 after taxes).
I saw a little artical on that as well. I don't expect much from Hyundai, from what they have out now It will end up a passable car that focuses to much on keeping the price down, resulting in a car that is merely mediocre all around. Maybe we'll be in for a surprise though, the more competition in this area the better!
I am seriously thinking about buying a 2001 Miata(selling my '95 R model).I have yet to drive a non-R model.I have heard that the R definitely has a 'harder'ride.I am interested in nice weather cruising,not auto-cross.Any opinions on what option packages to get for ride,resale value,etc.I seem to be getting alot of response to selling my R because of its package.Thanks!
Dave: the base suspension is softer, but don't expect a boulevard cruiser. If that's what you want, check out a Sebring or Solara.
The HCD6 looks interesting, but Hyundai always comes out with radical concepts, and then the production version is severely watered down.
The HCD1 was an awesome, aggressive roadster. We got the Scoupe!
Check out the Edmunds coverage of the Chicago Show for details if you're interested. They claim 215hp from the same 2.7l V6 in the Santa Fe. Just keep in mind the production version of the SF makes only 181hp and the vehicle is so heavy that it's being outrun by underpowered CR-Vs and RAV4s in acceleration tests.
Ofcourse I unlatch the top from the front before attempting to unzip the window. It is still stuck! I tried waxing the zipper and even WD-40, but no go! I guess I will have to replace the rear window with a glass one, as you guys suggest. Here in Central Calif. it is still very very cold and I will not be ready to drop the top any time soon. :-(
But what will happen if I lower the top without unzipping the rear window? The Owner's Manual says never to do that! If by doing that I will ruin the rear plastic window may as well do it, if it is going to be replaced with a glass one anyway!?
My zippers are beginning to fall apart, too, so they too are getting a bit hard. I wonder how much longer they'll last.
8 years on the original top and window ain't bad.
You don't have to unzip, and that only damages the window you're likely to replace anyway. You may want to get one of those padded bars people use and put it in the middle of the plastic to help it fold.
Aftermarket shops sell them, but you could make your own I suppose (broom stick + pipe insulation, maybe?).
The easiest thing to do is get a pool noodle. You can make 2 from one. Then cover with a soft fabric. I haven't done this yet, but probably will in the near future as my zipper is losing it's zip.
I have one more Q for you guys! I have a Honda Prelude 1991 (180K miles) and the Mazda Miata 1994 (67K miles). I change oil in both of them with Mobil 1. Whereas in the Honda the oil color remains light till it is time to change, the oil color becomes very dark in the Miata after only 500 miles. Is something wrong with the Miata's engine? What should I do? Is an engine sump flush a good idea?
I haven't been around for awhile and it's nice to see lots of the same 'faces' are still bringing wit & wisdom -- in whatever order;-) -- for all in Miataville.
Just to let you know, unfortunately I have to sell my '92. Not happy, but it needs a good home. If you're interested, drop me an email and I'll give you the details.
Comments
I've noticed that prices for older model Miata's have dropped drastically over the past year. It seems like for under $3000, I can own a very nice 1991 model Miata.
Does anyone own an older model Miata? Any problems? Mazda has always had a reputation of being very reliable automobiles, but buying a 10 year old car sort of scares me. But for a car to fart around in, it may not be that bad.
Any thoughts?
Eddie
Not much to worry about on the older Miatas (most early defects have probably been fixed by now anyway) but as you say, a ten year old car needs a good looking-over. And like any car, after 150K miles or so, the thing's pretty worn out. So I'd stay with 100K miles or under if you can.
Anyway......Thanks for all the help you guys gave me. Y'all really know your stuff.
I agree with Shifty on the $3k Miata. I found that even $5-6k samples aren't in the best shape. If you can spend $8k or so, you can find a low mileage Miata with all the servicing current.
What's $8k when the average transaction price for a new car is $24,800? (source: NADA)
-juice
I'm gonna try and run out to take a look at the car. $4500 for a car with 45K miles sounds pretty good.
Even if I pick it up, drive it around for 2 years, I can still sell it for $2-3 grand. That's not a bad trade-off for a few years of fun driving...
The weather's getting nicer and I'd love to cruise around in a convertible. Sweet...
Eddie
Chuck
Bad news though - I was hit today by a careless Saab driver. He changed lanes right into me, "CRUNCH". It was an awful sound. Noone was hurt, but Blanca suffered a damanged passenger side quarter panel and door.
Interestingly, the brand-new Saab 9-3 suffered far more damage. His bumper fell off completely, wires hanging all over the place, and some lights broke. I think he had hood and quarter panel damage to.
So I'm off to call his insurance and collect, then to the body shop. Bummer.
At least noone was hurt, and the Miata held up like a champ. No frame or suspension damage, and he hit me hard.
-juice
But honestly, it does seem that prices for the Miata's have gone down dramatically. I think with the inception of the new model, the older ones have depreciated alot.
Crashton6 could be right also. Selling a convertible in January must be like selling a snowmobile in June. Ha, ha. But I'll tell you, I have visions of driving around in a convertible soon. The weather's turning nice and it would kick [non-permissible content removed] to hit the road with a 360 degree view.
Eddie
I see Miata's all the time around Toronto in the winter, and I myself drove a 5.0 mustang without any problems.
I'll be buying my Miata with no concerns about the winter.
anyway, i though i'd throw this tidbit out.
ace
Talking to some other local Miata enthusiasts, most of them don't bother with the loading up the trunk trick stating that it throws out the handling balance.
I have a Forester, which IMO makes the perfect counterpart to the Miata.
Though snow tires are cheaper! :-)
-juice
My friend likes his Blizzak tires but they are very squirelly for the first few hundred miles especially on bare pavement.
Remember - you can use the floor mats as traction aides. Sand is great. Don't forget duct tape!
-juice
Chuck
I prefer the harness style set up where the car's seatbelt goes through the harness With the other style you have to hook onto the car's seatbelt, which is harder to do (especially with one hand) and provides too much play.
Have fun:)
I got a good look at both the Midnight Blue and Crystal Blue colors at an auto show last month. IMHO, the Midnight was GORGEOUS ... MUCH snappier than on the website. I plan to get my first Miata by the end of the year, and seeing this made my add it to my list (along with the Emerald). They both look great with the tan leather top & interior. They'd have most of the advantages (and, unfortunately, disadvantages) of a black car, while being a little more eye-catching.
However, the Crystal Blue is not for me. It's definitely not teal, just kind of an odd steel blue. It is similar to the blue of the 'James Bond' BMW Z3, but it's kind of flat ... not really blue or grey enough. It didn't help that the model I saw had tan leather. It would probably look better with black top/interior. I haven't seen the '96 color, so I'm no help there.
Just my $.02 ...
ace
Definitely try unlatching the header first - it gives you slack and the zipper may go.
-juice
THANKS
"• Finally, Hyundai takes a stab at pleasing both boomers and their young counterparts (X, Y, and mayb even Z generations) with the "affordable exotic" HCD6 roadster concept. The mid-engine two-seater is powered by a 2.7 liter dohc V6, visible via a see-through engine cover."
Does anyone know anything about this? I've never been a fan of Hyundai automobiles, but no one can say that they don't offer vehicles at very attractive prices.
There's a photo of the roadster in the mag, and I gotta say, it looks pretty sweet.
I've always wanted a convertible, but the impracticality of paying so much money for it made me reconsider. But if Hyundai can offer a comparable roadster with a V6 in the lower $10K's range ... things may change drastically.
Any ideas?
Eddie
The HCD6 looks interesting, but Hyundai always comes out with radical concepts, and then the production version is severely watered down.
The HCD1 was an awesome, aggressive roadster. We got the Scoupe!
Check out the Edmunds coverage of the Chicago Show for details if you're interested. They claim 215hp from the same 2.7l V6 in the Santa Fe. Just keep in mind the production version of the SF makes only 181hp and the vehicle is so heavy that it's being outrun by underpowered CR-Vs and RAV4s in acceleration tests.
-juice
Ofcourse I unlatch the top from the front before attempting to unzip the window. It is still stuck! I tried waxing the zipper and even WD-40, but no go! I guess I will have to replace the rear window with a glass one, as you guys suggest. Here in Central Calif. it is still very very cold and I will not be ready to drop the top any time soon. :-(
But what will happen if I lower the top without unzipping the rear window? The Owner's Manual says never to do that! If by doing that I will ruin the rear plastic window may as well do it, if it is going to be replaced with a glass one anyway!?
8 years on the original top and window ain't bad.
You don't have to unzip, and that only damages the window you're likely to replace anyway. You may want to get one of those padded bars people use and put it in the middle of the plastic to help it fold.
Aftermarket shops sell them, but you could make your own I suppose (broom stick + pipe insulation, maybe?).
-juice
Chuck
-juice
If you remove the oil pan, you can clean off the sludge at the bottom.
At least try to drain your oil when it's really hot, so it's thinner and drains more completely.
-juice
Just to let you know, unfortunately I have to sell my '92. Not happy, but it needs a good home. If you're interested, drop me an email and I'll give you the details.
Take care.
Joe W.