After dealing w/ 4 dealers and talking about 2000 LS new, demos, and 2000 Spec. Ed. finally settled on a 2001 LS w/ ABS for $ 21973.00 plus tax ,title, and license. Will confirm color choice after allocation sheet comes out on 3-5-01. Thought the price is good and can't what to get behind the wheel, put the top down and hit the road. Appreciate all the info. I've see on the site, it has been helpful.
Considering a hardtop for my car. I live in a cold weather climate and would use the car on occasion. I do have other vehicles so it will not be my primary winter car but I probably will want to drive it often anyway. I need opinions form people who have them and what they think of them. thanks.
A serious consideration is safety. When the folding top is up, the steel mechanism is at my head height. A side impact would likely cause a serious head injury.
I don't know whether the hardtop is less hostile, but it's worth a check.
If you do drive over the winter with the folding top up, I recommend padding the steel mechanism near your head. I used foam plastic water pipe insulation held on with nylon wire ties.
Wut up all. A few weeks ago, I posted a message asking around about late model Miatas. I was thinking of picking one up for fun.
Well, life took a U-turn and I'm now a proud owner of a beautiful mica blue 1992 Miata with 63K miles. I just picked it up yesterday.
Anyway, 2 weeks ago, I parked my 3000GT in front of my house and went in for the evening. When I came out the following morning, it was gone... GONE!!!
While it really sucks to have a car stolen and not having theft coverage, I guess I should count my blessings. Hell, it's only money ... at least no one was hurt.
So I found a late model Miata with decently low mileage. It came with hard top and some other goodies. Yesterday, I spent most of the day making sure everything was in proper order ... fluid levels, gear oil, air pressure, etc.
Today I finally had a chance to take it out for a LONG spin. Man, it's hot. Comparisons with the 3000GT withstanding, the Miata kicks major [non-permissible content removed] in it's own way.
Though, I gotta tell you, it really makes it hard to be macho ... especially when Hyundai's look HUGE. Driving at tire level of the 18-wheelers is abit scary also.
Joe: I think the later hard tops are insulated better. Early ones are actually louder inside than soft tops. So check out new ones, or look for newer used ones in the Miata.net classifieds.
Eddie: sorry about your 3000GT. Maybe the cops will find it? Hopefully without too much damage, too.
The Miata is surprisingly safe. Death rates are average, better than bigger and heavier Corvettes, for example.
unlatch the two from the header and the two from after of the doors. then, and keep in mind that this is what i used to do, lift up on the front on the hardtop, just a few inches, say four or five inches. then, since i was doing this mycelf solo, i would push the hardtop toward the rear of the car DIAGONALLY on a level plane. DO NOT LIFT ANY FURTHER. this motion will serve to twist the hardtop off one of the posts on the rear deck.
i could never get the thing to come off if i tried just push the whole thing rewards.
oh yeah, don't forget to unplug the defroster plug on the inside rear deck on the driver's side.
Need some opinions. I'm looking for a 99 Miata as a second car. A dealer in town has a Silver 99 Miata with A/C, Touring Pkg, and only 3500 miles; he's asking $17000. Edmunds' TMV price for this car is $17175. It's in new condition and its VIN is outside the range for the #4 thrust bearing problem. It drives better than the other 99's I have tried (all with 15000-30000 miles). Is this a good price? How much lower can I reasonably expect? Thanks.
I just picked up a new Miata today! It is a 2001 Base model in Black with the suspension package. I love it! I love it! I love it! I payed 900 below invoice (you have to love dealer cash) for a total price of $19989. It seemed like a great deal to me!. The car drives like a dream.
re post 1061. 17000 seems pretty typical for 1999 Miatas. I couldn't find one with low miles in the Portland, OR area for less than 16,000 (even after negotiation). It seemed worth it to me to pay the extra 3 grand for the new model with the new equipment. I hope you find a nice miata!
This is my first post on Town Hall. I have been reading postings on toyota, chevy, suv's and found your posts and have enjoyed reading them.
It's nice to find a bunch of people who enjoy there car's. No complaints, or bashing of other brands.
You are all right, Driving a fun spirited sports car is a blast. I have had 3 vettes and have enjoyed the car to the max. Sports cars are not like any other they have a specific use FUN FUN FUN. They may not be good highway crusers for long trips. I know that with the top down on any car big or small a long trip on the interstate is going to make you feel that you have driven accross country. But if you get off the interstate and hit some backroads you will have a blast.
On buying a used car a Miata or any other use good judgement, don't let emotions get in the way and you will find what your looking for. If you are looking at a dealer just make sure he is one that you trust. Check BBB and friends that has had dealings with him. I will continue to read this posting as it is enjoyable, and informative I wish you all good luck and Fun in your ownership of this fine auto. b
Picked up my midnight blue mica 2001 LS yesterday and had to drive it around and show all of my friends. 46 degrees in Chicago and loved every minute of it with the top down. Now to my question. Read all the info in the onwers maual, got the dealers input and have read many of the postings on this and other sites. What are the best products to use on the interior, exterior, and especialy the top? Do I take it to a high quality car wash or not? Every bit of info seems to be different. Since many of you have had your cars for quite some time I thought I should ask the experts. Thanks for any help with this.
I don't think car washes are a good idea. I use Lexol leather conditioner on the seats and Vinylex (by Lexol) on the top. Check out http://www.miata.net/
for the most information on the Miata anywhere. Good luck with the new car, when are you going to start autocrossing it???
Thanx for the insight on taking the hard top off. You were right. The key to getting it off is removing the front first and then sliding backwards. I was pushing straight up and it felt like it was gonna break. Thanx.
Congrats to Vida27 on picking up a brand new Miata. I wish, I wish. But I've been cruising around in my newly acquired 92 Miata, and damn, it's alot of fun. I gotta remember to bring a cap with me ... the sun can cause some serious headaches with constant exposure.
The weekend was beautiful. I spent more time in the Miata than on the motorcycle. That says alot. The motorcycle was the ultimate 'fun' vehicle. I think the Miata is closing in.... just as much fun without the serious danger of killing oneself.
I've never known a vehicle (besides Harley Davidson) to draw such communal enthusiasm from it's owners. Do any of you guys belong to Miata clubs? Are they worth joining? I'm just picturing myself cruising along topless through the Bear Mountain valley in NYS. I'm dying!
This car has made the theft of my 3000GT alot easier to take. 29.5 mpg on regular unleaded vs. 15 mpg on premium is some serious cash saved.
I'm so close to purchasing a Miata LS but stop short when it comes to tires - which brands are the best to ask the dealer install as standard equipment before I sign?...which should I refuse? (I plan to also get 4 snows for the Ct. winters )
Also, I had written a few months ago as to whether my dog, Rags ( 32#, about a foot wide by 2 1/2 feet long ) would be able to squeeze in-between the seats, on top of the console...any further options out there?
Finally, do you think a dealer will move more on the price in March vs April?
Juice - thanks for the reply but, just to make sure that there is no confusion,...I'm looking for opinions for the best regular tires to get with the car - I will definitely check out the TireRack for addtional snow tires but am looking to initially get the car with tires that I won't be disappointed with for the non-winter seasons. Ron Shaw
don't they all come with bridgestone potenzas of some sort. whether performance (50 aspect) or touring (60 aspect), bridgestone stinks!. you will behard pressed to get a dealer to put a non-factory tire on a delivered vehicle unless there is a REAl reason for it, such as a 2001 explorer with firestone at's on it.
now as for aftermarket tires, i am enjoying very good performance from my pirelli p7000 205/40/17's. they are great in dry weather and pretty good in wet. no comparison to the bridgestone 15'ers it came with. most people in miata circles will steer you toward dunlop. i have had no experience with that brand. another good place to check out for rims or tires or both is a place in georgia by the name of treadepot. they have a website. i used them for my current set and they beat everyone else, pricewise. just a little slow with the shipping.
I've already got my tires picked out. Only problem is, still haven't found the car to go with them. Drove 7 Miata's in the past 4 days. 1 possiblity so far, 95 M.
Toyo T1-S tires (if interested, 2nd hyperlink from left on this website)! Tirerack doesn't offer them.
The Bridgestones are a pretty good stock tire, my Miata has Re010's on it and I'm going to replace them with either RE71 or RE730 when they are due. I wouldn't get too caught up in specifying tires on a new car, especially a Miata, they come with good tires. (Now, if you could get the dealer to install some heat cycled, shaved Hoosiers....)
I've owned a Honda Del Sol and really enjoyed driving it. Can anyone compare the two for me? How about the advantages of the hard top vs. soft? Is it worth the extra $ ? How about leasing? Thanks for any help!
They are very different, really. Primarily because the Del Sol was front wheel drive. It probably had better noise/weather protection.
Dynamically, though, it's no contest. The Miata is light and tossable, and you can control the tail with the throttle. In autocross, the Honda couldn't keep up with it. It's also a full-fledged convertible.
I don't have a hard top so I can't comment, but I'd driven a few Del Sols and I now own a Miata. I wouldn't trade even if the Honda came with Jessica Alba in the passenger seat.
Despite the superficial similarities, like the previous poster said, the two cars will feel quite different
Since the Miata is a softtop, it feels more far more open than the Del Sol which still has C-pillars to block your blind spot. The feeling of wide open space around you in a Miata cannot be approximated by a targa hardtop DelSol. Of course, a hardtop is easier to take care of, as soft tops tend to wear after years of use and can become damaged or vandalised more easily. Zealous idiots can slash a softtop and get into your car easily.
Dynamically, the Miata is a rear wheel drive car and that means if you happen to drive the car at the limits, you can do some tail out sliding. Even if you don't, the Miata feels livelier and more tossable. The Miata steering is more direct and the gearshift is among the best in the industry.
The Del Sel DOHC 160HP version will be faster than any stock Miata but that's it's only advantage in my mind. I'd be more likely to buy a Del Sol if I needed ONE car for all seasons....but the Miata is a real sports car whereas I consider the Del Sol as more of a topless street crusier
buy a new one from the dealer if you want to purchase what could be the most depreciable accessory in the history of the automobile. dealer asks about $2,200, right? well you drive it off the lot and it's now worth $1,200, at the most. there is a plentiful supply of used hardtops out there in the $800 to $1200 range.
plus, once you get the miata, like some many other people, you may realize that the hardtop can be more work than it's worth. just wait until you have a sunny march day, like today, and you have the hardtop on. you'll wish it was easier to remove and store.
I have a Vizsla that goes #40 and about the same length. With the top up, she went right up in the area were the top is stored when it is down. No problems with the view out the back window. With the top down, It would be very difficult for a dog that size to be comfotable on the console especially if it is a stick shift. I use a pet seat belt w/ my dog and do not have any problems. Good luck.
Ok..thanks for the info about hard s. soft tops..now..what about 5 speed vs. 6 speed? I'm going this afternoon to drive a Miata and want to sound half way intelligent. Geeze..it should not be so hard to buy a car! Thanks for any help.
Try them both, and see which one you prefer. Are the gates easy to engage and well defined? Do you like the closer ratios on the 6 speed? Try them out. It's nice to have choices!
Currently setting up appointments to look at a few more used Miatae this weekend.
Would somebody be so kind as to give approx cost of 60k mile service, and for just timing belt replacement. 2 of the best sounding cars just passed 60k and these weren't done. Thank for very much!
On that subject, does anyone know if the Mazda engine is the non interference type. If the belt goes, does it take the valves and engine with it? Honda is, Toyota isn't, Mazda I dunno.
Thanks, Landscaperjoe, for your response - sounds like your hound has it made with the top up! Only time and a few rides will tell - once I finally bite the bullet and get the car - as to whether Rags will put up with the discomfort to see the world ... used to have a Fiat 124 Spyder ('69 ) that had a back seat of sorts where my dog - obviously not the same one - used to ride (in fact, I had a roll bar in that car so that took up a bit of the kid-sized back seat)...now its just a matter of convincing myself that I (and my dog) don't really need "all" that space...anyone else have experiences with dogs putting up with the "space" between the seats?
I answered my own question, 60k service at the dealer is $679, and timing belt replacment alone is $300. You guys probably don't have to worry about that for awhile.
the dealer is smoking dope. $679 for a 60K service??????? this interval calls for (1) changing the timing belt (2) oil and filter change (3) replace air filter (4) replace spark plugs (5) replace fuel filter (6) replace tranny and diff fluids (7) alignment (not req'd but advisable) (8) wiper blades (maybe) and (9) inspect/lube a few items and pad the bill.
now for a reality check...
(1) timing belt kit is $79.95, plus comsumables. total say, $90. that leaves $210 for labor. 3+ hours to do a belt change. i hope not. not if they've ever done one before.
(2) oil filter is $4.50 plus four qts of oil @ $1/qt. maybe .25 hours of labor, being generous here.
(3) air filter is $13.95. labor is three seconds. i'll add .1 hours.
(4) plugs, four at $2/each. again .1 hours of labor.
(schedule doesn't call for new plug wires, but i'd get 'em done. $29.95 for ngk blues.)
(5) fuel filter is a biggie @ $29.95. i've never done one, but my mazda shop manual makes it look like a .2 hour job. the car is already on the lift. remove a shield and bracket, disconnect old filter, insert new.
(6) fluids. let's assume the tech can work on both of these concurrently, and do other stuff while they are draining. the tranny takes 2.1 qts (call it 2qts) of fluid @ $7.95 for the good stuff and the diff takes 1.06 qts (call it an even one) @ again $7.95. the removal of the the bolts and the reinstallation of the bolts should take maybe .25 hours.
(7) four wheel alignment??? probably doesn't include it. it's not a bad idea to do it at this point unles you've got some suspension work coming due. i'm not going to include it in my price, though.
(8) wiper blade inserts are $9.95 plus .1 hours to install.
(9) i'll give the tech an extra hour to fiddle with the car, take a restroom break, and eat a candy bar. (actually they'd overgrease the door pivots, inspect the hoses, inspect the brakes, lines and tires, and inspect suspension bits and pieces.
so what's my total. i come up with $184.20 for parts. labor is a guess, let's say $65/hour. i have 2.0 hours excluding the belt job. total $130. shop fees, enviro fees, rags, candy bar. say $30. subtotal is $344.20. now for that $210 labor charge. added it would be $554.20, or $124.80 less that the "one price" the dealer quoted. remeber i added wiper blades and got crazy generous on the labor (5 plus hours).
my opinion, and i'm no expert... buy the parts from a discounted source, and find yourself a good reliable shop that works on miatas regularly and pay the hourly labor rate. bring your miata in to the dealer annually for one of its regular oil changes. this will give you/them the opportunity to catch up on any service bulletins or recalls.
Anyone have any suggestions on what to lookout for? I went to a local dealership recently and they had two '99 models. One was a green base model with 10k miles for $15k. The other one was a black, beefier model with hard top and alloy wheels, had 30k miles and cost $17k. Both sound like good prices, although am considering the cheaper one.
However, I'm very concerned about the #4 bearing problem. I didn't get a chance to look at the VIN #s on the cars, but am worried that they may fall in range. How bad is the bearing problem, and does it affect all miatas in the VIN range? If the cars do fall in range, what should I do? Avoid them altogether, or have them checked out? I really don't want to have to face a possible engine failure.
I'm a 19 year old, currently working as an IT professional. I live in Connecticut, and am thinking about a 96 or 97 miata for my commute - half an hour drive each way, mostly highway (65 mph speed limit, 70-75 mph going traffic usually). Just wanted to hear opinions about the ride, space (hauling around computer stuff), winter handling, etc. Insurance-wise, I was amazed, it costs less than some 4 door sedans I was looking at. I've been reading through the forum, just wanted to say thanks to everyone for all the useful info you post.
Several weeks (or months) ago, we spoke on the Fiat Redux board. Since then, I've seen numerous Fiat Spiders, MG Midgets, MGBs, even a Triumph TR7. Boy, $2-3000 just doesn't buy much these days. So, now I've regrouped and decided to open up my mind (and my wallet), and am now considering an early Miata. I went to see a white '92 today. 46000 miles, with air. The car looked very clean - garaged kept, now dents or scratches, nothing wrong with the interior that ArmorAll wouldn't take care of. Now for the price. The owner is asking $6500. This seems high, but these cars seem to move fast at whatever the price. Is $6500 a fair price for this car? What do you think? What about the same money in an MG or Triumph (as I said, $2-3000 for a Triumph or MG doesn't buy much). Thanks.
I used to do a similar thing, and have been through it. This car will be a bad choice. You will be able to get away with a computer and a couple of smaller accesseries in the trunk and a monitor on the passanger seat without the box, but it will quickly become a pain, and if you need to haul more then that you'll be out of luck. You will not fair much better with any sports car, but at least with a 2+2 you have a back seat of a sort to work with. You may find you need to sacrifice performance for a spacious hatch back like a focus ZX3 (just an example) which would be more convenient.
Otherwise you may want to consider an older van, wagon or hatchback type thing for work and get a slightly older 94/95 miata as you're pleasure car.
Jeff: I agree with freddy - it's a bad choice. They are loud on the highway (your commute), much more at home on a twisty two lane mountain road. They are cramped, so forget about hauling any thing bigger than a notebook PC. Finally, they are not the ideal vehicle for such a cold climate, even with snow tires.
Some folks here are die-hards and use them year round, but I'm glad to have my trusty Subaru when the cold weather comes around.
My wife wants a new Miata for her birthday. It will be a second car, so, okay. I don't know much about sports cars (I drive a Ford Explorer). Could someone who knows about the car tell me whether it's worth paying the extra $2500 to get the LS, as compared to the Base? Most of the ratings I see posted are by people owning the LS, but everyone seems to like their cars, be they Base or LS.
If I were to choose the Base model, would it be advisable to get one of the Appearance Packages, $450, or $800, the Torsen Limited Slip Differential, $395, or the Suspension Package, $1025?
If I were to choose the LS model, would it be advisable to get one of the Appearance Packages, $800 or $450?
I wish Mazda offered the ABS System on the Base model. I think safety features should be offered on all models of a car. Thanks for any advice.
Finally, with the $1000 dealer incentive Mazda is giving, does anyone know what a reasonable price should be? Thanks. I'm just trying to get a bit of advice from someone who has been down this path before me.
Yeah, the price sounds fair enough if it's really that clean and the miles are really that low....in my part of the country (California) that's the going rate for nice ones. You could certainly find an Alfa or MGB at that price as well, but the Miata is going to be, most likely, the most trouble-free.
stating that Mazda is issuing a rebate for the 2001 model due to the fact that the new engine does not as powerful as advertised.
Apparently Mazda has confessed that the 2001 Miata produces 142 horsepower (only 2 up more than the previous version), not the 155 advertised. The error came to light in a supplemental testing program of U.S.-specification models.
Mazda is offering to provide all 2001 owners with free factory-scheduled maintenance for the length of the Miata's warranty and a $500 Master Card debit card to spend as they choose. The program also includes a repurchase option.
Back when Motor Trend tested the Miata in the February 2001 issue, they said the new horsepower rating didn't show up at the track, and acceleration times were quite average for the many 1999-and-later 140-hp Miata they'd tested before.
Now that $500 could easily get you a nitrous system, which would give you far more than the measly 8% gain touted by the factory -- go to it, guys!
Unfortunately, Mazda won't give that $500, plus free maintenance, to anyone who bought after the March 16th press release. I called and they had to check on it and then told me this. It makes sense, but, I'm sure some dealers will be pissed. I wouldn't be surprised if dealers told Mazda they were losing prospective 2001 Miata buyers because of the snafu, and then got the deal for new buyers too.
Sounds like a very weak position for Mazda to take that anyone who bought after the press release did so with full knowledge of their deceptive advertising. I think they are leaving themselves wide open for a class action suit with potential punitive damages. I think they should get waiver forms to there dealers right away and have buyers sign that they were aware of the error. I would think anyone who buys without signing one of those would have a case against Mazda.
this thing was to begin with. The Miata is a fantastic car in its own right, is still preferred by many, and doesn't need some marketing genius to yank their chain the way they did. Dontcha just love those Dilbert-style marketing types?!!
One thing's for sure -- they'll be finding a way to get that extra 15 hp and then some on the next car -- so it all works out in the end, except for those who bought their 2001s in good faith.
Joe: options personalize a car, so what is she looking for? I actually like the base models as-is. I don't even need A/C, to be honest. Just gimme power steering and FM/cassette. That's all I use (even though my C package has far more than that).
But she may be quite different.
Appearance package? Cosmetic. I'd save my money for mods.
Torsen LSD? Will you autocross it? Then yes.
Suspension package? Careful, the ride is a bit stiff to begin with. I'd pass unless you really drive very aggressively.
Mine does not have ABS, but the brakes are easily modulated, and you have 4 wheel discs for fade resistance. I don't think that alone is a make-or-break it.
But the LS also makes the 6 speed available, and I probably would want that for the taller 6th speed when cruising.
Ask to test drive a couple of them. One stripped, then one loaded.
I'm not surprised that Mazda has this problem with their "155 hp" engine. They must be taking Marketing advice from their Ford Cobra business partners ;-) I don't really want to beat on Mazda, as most US companies don't make powerful, little engines, but heck why don't they just copy the engine in the Celica GTS, Integra-R, or Subaru WRX? I'm sure the Miata is a fun car; it's just that it could be so much better.
Comments
-juice
-juice
I don't know whether the hardtop is less hostile, but it's worth a check.
If you do drive over the winter with the folding top up, I recommend padding the steel mechanism near your head. I used foam plastic water pipe insulation held on with nylon wire ties.
Well, life took a U-turn and I'm now a proud owner of a beautiful mica blue 1992 Miata with 63K miles. I just picked it up yesterday.
Anyway, 2 weeks ago, I parked my 3000GT in front of my house and went in for the evening. When I came out the following morning, it was gone... GONE!!!
While it really sucks to have a car stolen and not having theft coverage, I guess I should count my blessings. Hell, it's only money ... at least no one was hurt.
So I found a late model Miata with decently low mileage. It came with hard top and some other goodies. Yesterday, I spent most of the day making sure everything was in proper order ... fluid levels, gear oil, air pressure, etc.
Today I finally had a chance to take it out for a LONG spin. Man, it's hot. Comparisons with the 3000GT withstanding, the Miata kicks major [non-permissible content removed] in it's own way.
Though, I gotta tell you, it really makes it hard to be macho ... especially when Hyundai's look HUGE. Driving at tire level of the 18-wheelers is abit scary also.
I found a very good site for Miata stuff:
http://www.mmmiata.com/tops01.html
I'm just disappointed that the north east is bracing for a monster snow storm. I wanna go cruising.
Eddie
Eddie: sorry about your 3000GT. Maybe the cops will find it? Hopefully without too much damage, too.
The Miata is surprisingly safe. Death rates are average, better than bigger and heavier Corvettes, for example.
-juice
Now how do I take it off? I see 4 latches on it, but dis-engaging the latches doesn't take the top off.
Are there screws or something that need to be taken out?
Thanx...
Eddie
i could never get the thing to come off if i tried just push the whole thing rewards.
oh yeah, don't forget to unplug the defroster plug on the inside rear deck on the driver's side.
hope this helps.
ace
re post 1061. 17000 seems pretty typical for 1999 Miatas. I couldn't find one with low miles in the Portland, OR area for less than 16,000 (even after negotiation). It seemed worth it to me to pay the extra 3 grand for the new model with the new equipment. I hope you find a nice miata!
your posts and have enjoyed reading them.
It's nice to find a bunch of people who enjoy there car's. No complaints, or bashing of other
brands.
You are all right, Driving a fun spirited sports car is a blast. I have had 3 vettes and have enjoyed the car to the max. Sports cars are not like any other they have a specific use FUN FUN
FUN. They may not be good highway crusers for long trips. I know that with the top down on any
car big or small a long trip on the interstate is
going to make you feel that you have driven accross country. But if you get off the interstate and hit some backroads you will have a
blast.
On buying a used car a Miata or any other use good judgement, don't let emotions get in the way
and you will find what your looking for. If you
are looking at a dealer just make sure he is one
that you trust. Check BBB and friends that has
had dealings with him. I will continue to read
this posting as it is enjoyable, and informative
I wish you all good luck and Fun in your ownership of this fine auto.
b
Since many of you have had your cars for quite some time I thought I should ask the experts.
Thanks for any help with this.
for the most information on the Miata anywhere. Good luck with the new car, when are you going to start autocrossing it???
Congrats to Vida27 on picking up a brand new Miata. I wish, I wish. But I've been cruising around in my newly acquired 92 Miata, and damn, it's alot of fun. I gotta remember to bring a cap with me ... the sun can cause some serious headaches with constant exposure.
The weekend was beautiful. I spent more time in the Miata than on the motorcycle. That says alot. The motorcycle was the ultimate 'fun' vehicle. I think the Miata is closing in.... just as much fun without the serious danger of killing oneself.
I've never known a vehicle (besides Harley Davidson) to draw such communal enthusiasm from it's owners. Do any of you guys belong to Miata clubs? Are they worth joining? I'm just picturing myself cruising along topless through the Bear Mountain valley in NYS. I'm dying!
This car has made the theft of my 3000GT alot easier to take. 29.5 mpg on regular unleaded vs. 15 mpg on premium is some serious cash saved.
Best to all.
Eddie
In any case, a co-worker found out that I picked up a nice used Miata. His first words were, "Man, why didn't you tell me? I'm trying to sell mine."
Anyway, he's looking to sell his wife's 1994 Miata ... it only has 16,000 miles on it. He's looking for $8000.
I figured that if anyone was interested, you can give him a shout:
1-800 366-6789 ask for Walter Skon
Tell him Eddie sent you. It sounds like a really nice deal.
Eddie
-juice
PS Maybe I could have a matching pair? ;-)
(I plan to also get 4 snows for the Ct. winters )
Also, I had written a few months ago as to whether my dog, Rags ( 32#, about a foot wide by 2 1/2 feet long ) would be able to squeeze in-between the seats, on top of the console...any further options out there?
Finally, do you think a dealer will move more on the price in March vs April?
Thanks for your replies !
Ron Shaw
I'm not sure what tires it wears, but you'll probably get better prices from TireRack vs. your dealer.
-juice
Ron Shaw
now as for aftermarket tires, i am enjoying very good performance from my pirelli p7000 205/40/17's. they are great in dry weather and pretty good in wet. no comparison to the bridgestone 15'ers it came with. most people in miata circles will steer you toward dunlop. i have had no experience with that brand. another good place to check out for rims or tires or both is a place in georgia by the name of treadepot. they have a website. i used them for my current set and they beat everyone else, pricewise. just a little slow with the shipping.
good luck,
ace
Toyo T1-S tires (if interested, 2nd hyperlink from left on this website)! Tirerack doesn't offer them.
http://www.toyo.com/racing/miata/chart.html
Dynamically, though, it's no contest. The Miata is light and tossable, and you can control the tail with the throttle. In autocross, the Honda couldn't keep up with it. It's also a full-fledged convertible.
I don't have a hard top so I can't comment, but I'd driven a few Del Sols and I now own a Miata. I wouldn't trade even if the Honda came with Jessica Alba in the passenger seat.
Well, maybe, if I wasn't married...
-juice
Since the Miata is a softtop, it feels more far more open than the Del Sol which still has C-pillars to block your blind spot. The feeling of wide open space around you in a Miata cannot be approximated by a targa hardtop DelSol. Of course, a hardtop is easier to take care of, as soft tops tend to wear after years of use and can become damaged or vandalised more easily. Zealous idiots can slash a softtop and get into your car easily.
Dynamically, the Miata is a rear wheel drive car and that means if you happen to drive the car at the limits, you can do some tail out sliding. Even if you don't, the Miata feels livelier and more tossable. The Miata steering is more direct and the gearshift is among the best in the industry.
The Del Sel DOHC 160HP version will be faster than any stock Miata but that's it's only advantage in my mind. I'd be more likely to buy a Del Sol if I needed ONE car for all seasons....but the Miata is a real sports car whereas I consider the Del Sol as more of a topless street crusier
plus, once you get the miata, like some many other people, you may realize that the hardtop can be more work than it's worth. just wait until you have a sunny march day, like today, and you have the hardtop on. you'll wish it was easier to remove and store.
just my thoughts.
ace
I'm going this afternoon to drive a Miata and want to sound half way intelligent.
Geeze..it should not be so hard to buy a car!
Thanks for any help.
-juice
Would somebody be so kind as to give approx cost of 60k mile service, and for just timing belt replacement. 2 of the best sounding cars just passed 60k and these weren't done. Thank for very much!
On that subject, does anyone know if the Mazda engine is the non interference type. If the belt goes, does it take the valves and engine with it? Honda is, Toyota isn't, Mazda I dunno.
Thank you, appreciate it. Mark
('69 ) that had a back seat of sorts where my dog - obviously not the same one - used to ride (in fact, I had a roll bar in that car so that took up a bit of the kid-sized back seat)...now its just a matter of convincing myself that I (and my dog) don't really need "all" that space...anyone else have experiences with dogs putting up with the "space" between the seats?
now for a reality check...
(1) timing belt kit is $79.95, plus comsumables. total say, $90. that leaves $210 for labor. 3+ hours to do a belt change. i hope not. not if they've ever done one before.
(2) oil filter is $4.50 plus four qts of oil @ $1/qt. maybe .25 hours of labor, being generous here.
(3) air filter is $13.95. labor is three seconds. i'll add .1 hours.
(4) plugs, four at $2/each. again .1 hours of labor.
(schedule doesn't call for new plug wires, but i'd get 'em done. $29.95 for ngk blues.)
(5) fuel filter is a biggie @ $29.95. i've never done one, but my mazda shop manual makes it look like a .2 hour job. the car is already on the lift. remove a shield and bracket, disconnect old filter, insert new.
(6) fluids. let's assume the tech can work on both of these concurrently, and do other stuff while they are draining. the tranny takes 2.1 qts (call it 2qts) of fluid @ $7.95 for the good stuff and the diff takes 1.06 qts (call it an even one) @ again $7.95. the removal of the the bolts and the reinstallation of the bolts should take maybe .25 hours.
(7) four wheel alignment??? probably doesn't include it. it's not a bad idea to do it at this point unles you've got some suspension work coming due. i'm not going to include it in my price, though.
(8) wiper blade inserts are $9.95 plus .1 hours to install.
(9) i'll give the tech an extra hour to fiddle with the car, take a restroom break, and eat a candy bar. (actually they'd overgrease the door pivots, inspect the hoses, inspect the brakes, lines and tires, and inspect suspension bits and pieces.
so what's my total. i come up with $184.20 for parts. labor is a guess, let's say $65/hour. i have 2.0 hours excluding the belt job. total $130. shop fees, enviro fees, rags, candy bar. say $30. subtotal is $344.20. now for that $210 labor charge. added it would be $554.20, or $124.80 less that the "one price" the dealer quoted. remeber i added wiper blades and got crazy generous on the labor (5 plus hours).
my opinion, and i'm no expert... buy the parts from a discounted source, and find yourself a good reliable shop that works on miatas regularly and pay the hourly labor rate. bring your miata in to the dealer annually for one of its regular oil changes. this will give you/them the opportunity to catch up on any service bulletins or recalls.
good luck.
ace
However, I'm very concerned about the #4 bearing problem. I didn't get a chance to look at the VIN #s on the cars, but am worried that they may fall in range. How bad is the bearing problem, and does it affect all miatas in the VIN range? If the cars do fall in range, what should I do? Avoid them altogether, or have them checked out? I really don't want to have to face a possible engine failure.
Several weeks (or months) ago, we spoke on the Fiat Redux board. Since then, I've seen numerous Fiat Spiders, MG Midgets, MGBs, even a Triumph TR7. Boy, $2-3000 just doesn't buy much these days. So, now I've regrouped and decided to open up my mind (and my wallet), and am now considering an early Miata. I went to see a white '92 today. 46000 miles, with air. The car looked very clean - garaged kept, now dents or scratches, nothing wrong with the interior that ArmorAll wouldn't take care of. Now for the price. The owner is asking $6500. This seems high, but these cars seem to move fast at whatever the price. Is $6500 a fair price for this car? What do you think? What about the same money in an MG or Triumph (as I said, $2-3000 for a Triumph or MG doesn't buy much). Thanks.
I used to do a similar thing, and have been through it. This car will be a bad choice. You will be able to get away with a computer and a couple of smaller accesseries in the trunk and a monitor on the passanger seat without the box, but it will quickly become a pain, and if you need to haul more then that you'll be out of luck. You will not fair much better with any sports car, but at least with a 2+2 you have a back seat of a sort to work with. You may find you need to sacrifice performance for a spacious hatch back like a focus ZX3 (just an example) which would be more convenient.
Otherwise you may want to consider an older van, wagon or hatchback type thing for work and get a slightly older 94/95 miata as you're pleasure car.
Some folks here are die-hards and use them year round, but I'm glad to have my trusty Subaru when the cold weather comes around.
-juice ('98 Forester, '93 Miata)
If I were to choose the Base model, would it be advisable to get one of the Appearance Packages, $450, or $800, the Torsen Limited Slip Differential, $395, or the Suspension Package, $1025?
If I were to choose the LS model, would it be advisable to get one of the Appearance Packages, $800 or $450?
I wish Mazda offered the ABS System on the Base model. I think safety features should be offered on all models of a car. Thanks for any advice.
Finally, with the $1000 dealer incentive Mazda is giving, does anyone know what a reasonable price should be? Thanks. I'm just trying to get a bit of advice from someone who has been down this path before me.
Apparently Mazda has confessed that the 2001 Miata produces 142 horsepower (only 2 up more than the previous version), not the 155 advertised. The error came to light in a supplemental testing program of U.S.-specification models.
Mazda is offering to provide all 2001 owners with free factory-scheduled maintenance for the length of the Miata's warranty and a $500 Master Card debit card to spend as they choose. The program also includes a repurchase option.
Back when Motor Trend tested the Miata in the February 2001 issue, they said the new horsepower rating didn't show up at the track, and acceleration times were quite average for the many 1999-and-later 140-hp Miata they'd tested before.
Now that $500 could easily get you a nitrous system, which would give you far more than the measly 8% gain touted by the factory -- go to it, guys!
One thing's for sure -- they'll be finding a way to get that extra 15 hp and then some on the next car -- so it all works out in the end, except for those who bought their 2001s in good faith.
But she may be quite different.
Appearance package? Cosmetic. I'd save my money for mods.
Torsen LSD? Will you autocross it? Then yes.
Suspension package? Careful, the ride is a bit stiff to begin with. I'd pass unless you really drive very aggressively.
Mine does not have ABS, but the brakes are easily modulated, and you have 4 wheel discs for fade resistance. I don't think that alone is a make-or-break it.
But the LS also makes the 6 speed available, and I probably would want that for the taller 6th speed when cruising.
Ask to test drive a couple of them. One stripped, then one loaded.
-juice
I don't really want to beat on Mazda, as most US companies don't make powerful, little engines, but heck why don't they just copy the engine in the Celica GTS, Integra-R, or Subaru WRX?
I'm sure the Miata is a fun car; it's just that it could be so much better.