Congrats ego, and don't worry, the base suspension is plenty sporty and still comfortable.
Good news - I used some silicone sealant on that little crack in my vinyl top, and it seems to have worked well. It's sealed up and appears to remain flexible. The real test will be when I start putting the top down again (it's way too cold right now), so I'll let you know how it holds up.
This let me put off the new top until it's at least warm enough that I could contemplate changing it myself (it's a 3rd vehicle and we have a car port, so I could really take my time).
If the website and this salesman are correct, then Mazda has taken several steps back. Hardtop only on the base models?! Ridiculous! What kind of lousy cheap material are they using on these things?
I knew it was a good idea to get an 02! I only got it b/c crystal blue was being discountinued, but now it appears that Mazda has cheapened the quality as well. No Torsen LSD, cheap top, cheapy looking faux aluminum interior, fewer color combos. Add to this Mazda's lousy customer service for parts (6 weeks to get a rim!, 6 weeks to get weatherstipping! COME ON!).
It's too bad, Mazda has a lot of neat cars too (P5, 6, etc.)
I've finally decided to buy a Miata again (I had one about 10 years ago). I'm trying to decide on the Standard vs. the LS. The main reason I'm considering the LS is for the ABS. I live in Seattle and figure that with as much rain as we get, ABS would be necessary. What do you all suggest? What about tire-wise?
Another pretty dumb question... as much as I love Miatas, I don't know that much about cars. I read in a post that you need to keep the revs up to 3500 for the car to perform. What does that really mean? My Miata will be a commuter car.
To get any oomph out of the car, the RPM's need to be above 3,500. Mine has a noticable "boost" in the low 4,000's. Anything lower is fine for cruising, but not for peppy acceleration.
My LS has ABS and its nice, but in bad weather, I usually just drive my old Accord so it wasn't a must-have. What I really like is the 6-speed. To be honest, the only reason I went with an LS is for the color combo (Crystal Blue and tan leather). If I had to get and 03, I'd just pick the one that I liked the looks of the most. It is, afterall, a rather frivilous car that is made to be liked for the fun, not for how practical it is.
Point is, to me the features that the LS brought were nice, but I could have been happy with a base one.
I think the newer 1.8l models have a much better torque curve than the early 1.6l ones, which made approximately zero foot-pounds at 3000 rpm (peak was 100 IIRC at a sky-high 5500 rpm).
So if you had one 10 years ago, the new engine should feel more flexible. They're also more comfortable and refined.
I drive a '93, but I've test driven a '99 and a new one last year.
I emailed that guy that Eric suggested a few messages back. He emailed me back today. He said that one piece tops without zippers are now available for the first gen Miatas and fit without any modification! AAbestco just earned my business. It will be so nice to finally have an inexpensive replacement top with a glass window that does'nt need to be zipped down!!
Anyone seen a garnet red mica Miata?? My god, that color is spectacular on this car! It looks so deep and rich. The luster is unbelievable. I want to repaint my 92 Miata this color.
I saw that - prices aren't bad either. $200 for a one-piece with a plastic window, $270 for one-piece with glass. I'd spring for the latter.
The catch is I'm not finding any places that will install it for less than $350, and even then they won't offer their usual guarantee because it's an aftermarket top.
For now, my little patch work will do. If I find an installer that will either offer a better price or stand behind their work with a full warranty (preferably BOTH) then I'll bite.
i see that some people prefer the 03 over the 02. however, when considering base models, isn't the 03 better since it has bigger wheels and the strut tower brace? it still has the vinyl top as well.
the 03 base model should be just as nice as an 02 base, correct?
Or you could wait to hear how my experience goes. I'm going to be installing the top with help from my roomie. It will be a few months probably but I'll let you know how difficult and time consuming the top operation is. I've never done one before but my roomie is mechanically inclined so I think we can get the job done.
If you like the lousier LSD and the interior details then go for it. Also keep in mind that the larger wheels on the 03's will severely limit your tire selection and you won't be able to fit 14" rims over the larger brakes for snow tires. I often wish I had 15's on my 02 LS so I could have a bigger tire selection and a bit softer ride.
I am talking 02 BASE, and 03 BASE. an 02 base doesn't have LSD. are you saying that an 03 base has an LSD?
also, what is crappy about the new BASE interior? i know that the LS has that ugly painted silver plastic, but the base didn't change, did it? plain black i thought....
i like the idea of a new 03, base, with bigger brakes and the strut tower brace. but i hear what you are saying about bigger brakes not working with snow tires....
I took a Miata test drive last week for first time and I am very interested. I have a couple of questions that maybe you kind folks could help me with...
1. trying to decide between a 5 speed and 6 speed - I would use as both a short commuter 10 miles each way and then vacation touring 450-550 miles a day. I am assuming that the 6 speed would make the touring cruising a bit more pleasant - Any down-side to the 6 speed to the 5 speed (other than cost)?
2. I know that part of the fun is the sporty ride - but what do most of you think about the general comfort of the MX-5 for the touring mileage driving that I am considering
- if I tour for extended periods will I need to schedule a chiropractor in every city I visit or not?
3. Also I saw in the Mazda brochure a luggage rack option - I don't recollect seeing many of those - any experiences that could help me understand the desirability or foolishness of luggage racks on the Miata.
Thanks in advance - I am getting close to "joining the Miata family" but need a little more perspective before I "pull the trigger".
So far did 800 miles in a week of ownership. Nice ride. But I seem to have a rattle that sounds like a screw or something metallic. Only happens with the top down and over uneven surfaces. It seems to be right behind the drivers seat area. Any ideas? I plan to have the dealer look at it after the car is broken in...
IIRC the 6-sp and 5-sp have the same final gear ratio, so there is no advantage for hwy cruising. You just end up shifting more with the 6-sp.
The luggage rack is an option, and unfortunately it came on my '92. It requires that holes be drilled in the trunk, so you can't remove it later if you decide you don't like the "look". On my '92, the load limit of the rack is listed as 25#s. The PO told me that he had never used it. I'm currently looking for a "plain" trunk lid, so that I can re-paint and replace mine.
I don't know if your boot cover is the same as mine, but do you fasten the straps of the boot cover to the lower frame of the top when the top is down? They are effective sopping rattles.
I need to replace one of my fog lights on my 2000 Miata. The cheapest one I can find is around $185.00. I can't afford to pay that much. Does anyone know where I can find a replacement fog light for a reasonable price?
It's also just called "boot." you use it to cover the soft top when it's down to protect the soft top from the sun and other elements. Your soft top has straps?! My soft top has latches, but no straps...hmmm.
Hondas have forever damaged your brain. Accept RWD and repent. ;-)
Seriously though, a Miata has a lot more go-juice than a CRX Si, and nowhere near that of a 93-up Prelude VTEC. but it handles far better than both, the CRX's curb weight makes it feel nimble but it's still an understeering FWD bore.
Yup latches...sorry about that..I think I know what your talkin about though regarding the boot. I don't tend to use it since when I park I put the top up.
I prefer local, curvy roads over highways in my Miata. It gets loud and rides rough at speeds above 65mph anyway, plus the curves are more fun. To be honest, I would not call it a good tourer. Luggage space is at a premium, passenger space is tight for me, payload is minimal, ride isn't really smooth, and the gas tank limits range.
Just my opinion, but it's much better for quick errands, short trips, twisty local roads, not touring. You feel like an ant next to a semi, so I stick to roads with no trucks.
I recently took my '97 Miata (109,000 miles) to a mechanic. I am the second owner, a recent purchase. Up on the lift, we discovered an oil leak. The mechanic said it was minor and no big deal.
I am not used to owning a car that leaks anything. He said it was no problem, that it was an expensive and unnecessary fix (at this point). I appreciate his honesty, but I still wonder if it's "normal" for a car to leak anything. I am not a mechanical doofus, but I am no expert, either. Anyone with any experience/thoughts? Thanks! - Todd
Wow, I don't think I've ever owned a car that didn't leak a little oil as it got older. I agree with your mechanic. A little oil leak is most likely not going to hurt anything and if it's going to cost big money to repair, I'd leave it alone.
I would want to know where the leak was coming from. If expensive to fix and a minor leak, then I would let it go. If relatively easy to fix, then I would fix it.
Most common sources of oil leaks are - 1) "O" ring on CAS sensor (at rear passenger side of engine on a '91) 2) Cam cover gasket
Both are easy and cheap fixes if you do them yourself. Buy an OEM gasket for the cam cover if you replace it as it is much better quality and fit than aftermarket.
Thanks for the answers and advice. I feel better about it now.
To dgraves: Bottom line is I always have sold my cars before they hit higher miles, so that's probably why I never experienced leaks. I had to buy this high-miles Miata because I loved it so much! Thanks again.
A friend of mine with a 99 miata (auto) has been having a problem. His car seems to have a miss every now and then. It's had a tune up (plugs wires, etc) but still has the miss. He said the computer was cleared, but the mechanic could not duplicate the problem. It doesn't seem to happen for any particular reason... cold, hot, rain, etc. Are there any common problems for these cars... ie. ignition, fuel? Thanks!
If the leak isn't too bad, I'd say don't sweat it. Almost all cars have some sort of minor leak. If it's really not too pricie to repair by yourself and you enjoy the work, then try it.
But it's much easier to check the oil level every few days and add if necessary. If you lose more than a quart a week, then maybe you have problems. If any less, then don't sweat it and just refill as needed.
A quart a week?! That would be a huge leak. A dripping leak should go for a year before it would need a quart. My MR2 leaves a couple of drops on the garage floor everyday and goes from one oil change to the next (5,000 miles and 6 months) without even needing a 1/2 quart top off.
You guys serious that a leak of a quart a week is serious? Mamma mia. I had a 94 3000GT VR-4 which either burned or leaked over a quart a week for two years. It also leaked gear oil from the trannie (MT) which would require refilling every 2 months. Then the car got stolen so I hope the new owner is enjoying all the problems I had to deal with.
But now my Miata is my commuting car (30mpg ... gotta love it) and the Lexus SC300 is my cruze around town and pick up hotties car. ha, ha.
Yeah, it's serious, c'mon. One quart a week, you space out the refill until the end of the second week, run the car hard through some turns on a hot day, you're down 1/2 your oil capacity almost and stressing the engine. Might not matter on a Lincoln Town Car, but a Miata needs all that oil if you drive it like a sports car.
I need to feel reassured that I received a good deal on a 99 Miata LS. It has 34,000 miles, mint condition, dark green, power everything, hard and soft top, fog lights, Bose Sound System w/ CD and Cassette, 5 speed, leather, air and it also came with the rack that holds the hard top. I paid $13,100 for it. Is that a good deal, fair or did I get taken to the cleaners? I went on Edmunds and according to that I did ok.
Also, is the engine supposed to rev at 4,000 rpm at about 70? Any other advice is appreciated.
I want to sleep tonight hoping I made the right decision. Since I may not check this everyday, you can email me at tvbob13@hotmail.com. Thx
considering it had a hard top. But then again, we're all just a bunch of strangers with no vested interest in your car so take our opinions for what they're worth.
No way to get rid of it short of getting rid of the car. Maybe if you reupholstered the entire interior.
I went for a test drive in a used Xterra once. They had 2 on the lot, so I asked to drive the cheaper one. After a few minutes, the salesman came back with the keys. We opened it up and whammo! A blast of cig smoke whafted right into my face. I didn't even get into it, jst said, "uhh, I think I'll try the yellow one instead." That thing sat on the lot for months and months.
thank you ateixeira, thel and locke2c for responding. I can sleep better now. I am looking forward to bringing it home and having fun! I have never indulged myself like this before. It's difficult to do that.
I am curious as to why the In-dash 6-CD changer is no longer an option when you go to the Miata's TMV page. Anyone know? I am buying a Miata shortly (anywhere from 1 to 6 months) and check the pricing periodically. I just noticed today that the 6-CD changer is not listed. This is kind of a bummer...
Get an iPod instead. A 6CD can hold 120 songs tops, while the cheapest iPod (supposed to go down to $199) can hold 1000+.
For that smoke, yuck, but try baking soda. Sprinkle a whole box on all the upholstery and let it sit overnight to absorb the odors. Vac the next day, or at least after a couple of hours.
Make sure you get under the carpets and seats. Detail that bad boy.
Comments
Good news - I used some silicone sealant on that little crack in my vinyl top, and it seems to have worked well. It's sealed up and appears to remain flexible. The real test will be when I start putting the top down again (it's way too cold right now), so I'll let you know how it holds up.
This let me put off the new top until it's at least warm enough that I could contemplate changing it myself (it's a 3rd vehicle and we have a car port, so I could really take my time).
-juice
I knew it was a good idea to get an 02! I only got it b/c crystal blue was being discountinued, but now it appears that Mazda has cheapened the quality as well. No Torsen LSD, cheap top, cheapy looking faux aluminum interior, fewer color combos. Add to this Mazda's lousy customer service for parts (6 weeks to get a rim!, 6 weeks to get weatherstipping! COME ON!).
It's too bad, Mazda has a lot of neat cars too (P5, 6, etc.)
Another pretty dumb question... as much as I love Miatas, I don't know that much about cars. I read in a post that you need to keep the revs up to 3500 for the car to perform. What does that really mean? My Miata will be a commuter car.
Thanks again...
My LS has ABS and its nice, but in bad weather, I usually just drive my old Accord so it wasn't a must-have. What I really like is the 6-speed. To be honest, the only reason I went with an LS is for the color combo (Crystal Blue and tan leather). If I had to get and 03, I'd just pick the one that I liked the looks of the most. It is, afterall, a rather frivilous car that is made to be liked for the fun, not for how practical it is.
Point is, to me the features that the LS brought were nice, but I could have been happy with a base one.
So if you had one 10 years ago, the new engine should feel more flexible. They're also more comfortable and refined.
I drive a '93, but I've test driven a '99 and a new one last year.
-juice
The catch is I'm not finding any places that will install it for less than $350, and even then they won't offer their usual guarantee because it's an aftermarket top.
For now, my little patch work will do. If I find an installer that will either offer a better price or stand behind their work with a full warranty (preferably BOTH) then I'll bite.
-juice
the 03 base model should be just as nice as an 02 base, correct?
also, what is crappy about the new BASE interior? i know that the LS has that ugly painted silver plastic, but the base didn't change, did it? plain black i thought....
i like the idea of a new 03, base, with bigger brakes and the strut tower brace. but i hear what you are saying about bigger brakes not working with snow tires....
Still, if it was me, I'd pick up a leftover 02 (lots of them in St. Louis) and get for about $2,000 back of invoice (better deal than 0% anyway).
My quick fix is holding up well, actually. It's raining today.
-juice
Miata is some where between a CRX and Prelude.
The best way to get in the car is sit down on the edge of the seat then rotate 90 degree. Do the reverse to get out.
1. trying to decide between a 5 speed and 6 speed - I would use as both a short commuter 10 miles each way and then vacation touring 450-550 miles a day. I am assuming that the 6 speed would make the touring cruising a bit more pleasant - Any down-side to the 6 speed to the 5 speed (other than cost)?
2. I know that part of the fun is the sporty ride - but what do most of you think about the general comfort of the MX-5 for the touring mileage driving that I am considering
- if I tour for extended periods will I need to schedule a chiropractor in every city I visit or not?
3. Also I saw in the Mazda brochure a luggage rack option - I don't recollect seeing many of those - any experiences that could help me understand the desirability or foolishness of luggage racks on the Miata.
Thanks in advance - I am getting close to "joining the Miata family" but need a little more perspective before I "pull the trigger".
The luggage rack is an option, and unfortunately it came on my '92. It requires that holes be drilled in the trunk, so you can't remove it later if you decide you don't like the "look". On my '92, the load limit of the rack is listed as 25#s. The PO told me that he had never used it. I'm currently looking for a "plain" trunk lid, so that I can re-paint and replace mine.
say what???
Hondas have forever damaged your brain. Accept RWD and repent. ;-)
Seriously though, a Miata has a lot more go-juice than a CRX Si, and nowhere near that of a 93-up Prelude VTEC. but it handles far better than both, the CRX's curb weight makes it feel nimble but it's still an understeering FWD bore.
-Colin
I prefer local, curvy roads over highways in my Miata. It gets loud and rides rough at speeds above 65mph anyway, plus the curves are more fun. To be honest, I would not call it a good tourer. Luggage space is at a premium, passenger space is tight for me, payload is minimal, ride isn't really smooth, and the gas tank limits range.
Just my opinion, but it's much better for quick errands, short trips, twisty local roads, not touring. You feel like an ant next to a semi, so I stick to roads with no trucks.
-juice
The part numbers are:
0000-88-MX59-RL Right side
0000-88-MX59-LL Left side
Even a complete set should only run you $190.
Try giving your local dealer a call with those numbers.
I am not used to owning a car that leaks anything. He said it was no problem, that it was an expensive and unnecessary fix (at this point). I appreciate his honesty, but I still wonder if it's "normal" for a car to leak anything. I am not a mechanical doofus, but I am no expert, either. Anyone with any experience/thoughts? Thanks! - Todd
-juice
Most common sources of oil leaks are -
1) "O" ring on CAS sensor (at rear passenger side of engine on a '91)
2) Cam cover gasket
Both are easy and cheap fixes if you do them yourself. Buy an OEM gasket for the cam cover if you replace it as it is much better quality and fit than aftermarket.
I feel better about it now.
To dgraves: Bottom line is I always have sold my cars before they hit higher miles, so that's probably why I never experienced leaks. I had to buy this high-miles Miata because I loved it so much! Thanks again.
Are there any common problems for these cars... ie. ignition, fuel? Thanks!
But it's much easier to check the oil level every few days and add if necessary. If you lose more than a quart a week, then maybe you have problems. If any less, then don't sweat it and just refill as needed.
If it's hesitating, maybe consider a throttle body service. It took our 626 from sluggish to peppy just like that.
-juice
But now my Miata is my commuting car (30mpg ... gotta love it) and the Lexus SC300 is my cruze around town and pick up hotties car. ha, ha.
Also, is the engine supposed to rev at 4,000 rpm at about 70? Any other advice is appreciated.
I want to sleep tonight hoping I made the right decision. Since I may not check this everyday, you can email me at tvbob13@hotmail.com. Thx
I've been trying to find a '99 for $10 grand and can't, and even the ones that are close have 80k miles or so.
The hardtop and rack are worth almost a grand alone, add something for leather, add something for the very low miles.
Oh yeah, it's worth that. Congrats.
-juice
about 4k rpm at 70mph is normal, yes.
oh, and do not expect emails back! give us a break, this is a discussion board. subscribe and come join us.
-Colin
-juice
Never buy a used car from a smoker.
I went for a test drive in a used Xterra once. They had 2 on the lot, so I asked to drive the cheaper one. After a few minutes, the salesman came back with the keys. We opened it up and whammo! A blast of cig smoke whafted right into my face. I didn't even get into it, jst said, "uhh, I think I'll try the yellow one instead." That thing sat on the lot for months and months.
For that smoke, yuck, but try baking soda. Sprinkle a whole box on all the upholstery and let it sit overnight to absorb the odors. Vac the next day, or at least after a couple of hours.
Make sure you get under the carpets and seats. Detail that bad boy.
If that doesn't work, you'll need new upholstery.
-juice
But the price is rumored to drop to $199 soon.
It can hook up to a cassette player with an adaptor (very cheap, $10 or so I was told) or an FM sender (about $35 IIRC).
It's small and it's portable, so you could theoretically use it as a walkman and in multiple cars.
-juice