by "Boxer_4" (Boxer_4)
Published 10/05/2017 at 19:38
by "Boxer_4" (Boxer_4)
Published 10/05/2017 at 19:38
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STARS: 6
...a 1991 base model (1.6L, 5-speed, steel wheels, crank windows). It wasn’t much of a ride - a couple of blocks between facilities at work - but even so I can see the appeal. It reminded me of my friends’ ‘62 Sprite, just newer.
The interior seemed well put together - quite sparse - and was overall a decent place to be. I was fairly impressed with the overall build quality as well from my brief time in it. I can also see that, at least in the passenger seat, I wouldn’t want to spend an extended period of time in it. It might have something to do with the fact that I don’t believe the passenger seat could be lowered, but I’ve never really been able to get too comfortable just sitting in Miatas of any generation.
Still, it has me looking at that era of Mazdas now - I wonder how the FC RX-7 compares from a build quality perspective...
"E90M3" (e90m3)
10/05/2017 at 19:46, STARS: 2
I test drove an ND Miata earlier this year, I finally get it. Still don’t want one, but I get it.
"Chuckles" (chucklesw37)
10/05/2017 at 20:18, STARS: 0
The seats are not height adjustable. Hell, the steering wheel isn’t adjustable at all. But you’d be surprised at how much you can enjoy a long road trip in one of these, at least in the driver’s seat with the top down. I’ve driven 12 hour days in my Miata and I wanted to keep going when I got to my hotel.
If you can find one, the later model NA Miatas got bumped up to a 1.8L engine. It’s still not a rocketship, but it helps a lot. And it still has those pop up headlights.
I doubt that I’ll ever own another car as fun as my Miata. It might not be “the answer” to everything, but it’ll probably always be my favorite.
Here’s mine, which is currently at the shop getting a PA inspection after I’ve been back for 10 months:
"Chariotoflove" (chariotoflove)
10/05/2017 at 20:40, STARS: 1
The FC was well put together, at least ours was.
"Scary__goongala!" (corymagee)
10/05/2017 at 21:57, STARS: 0
The longest drive I’ve done in my NA was 6ish hours to Lime Rock. Granted I had JUST installed a new suspension from FlyinMIata, I didn’t mind the trip at all. Personal preference though.
"TheD0k_2many toys 2little time" (thed0ck)
10/05/2017 at 22:33, STARS: 1
FC were pretty good. I wouldnt know tho because i havent actually driven mine. And its fully stripped
"Nick Has an Exocet" (nickallain)
10/05/2017 at 23:12, STARS: 1
I have a 1991 base model. Mine is far from clean but its destined to be an Exocet.
You are correct that its not traditionally comfortable. There are things you can do but the most comfortable NA is probably the ND.
The first time I took mine up a twisty road, even with a slipping clutch, I just got it. The smile was so wide, it’s amazing that I didn’t pull a muscle.
"Boxer_4" (Boxer_4)
10/07/2017 at 20:00, STARS: 0
That’s what I thought about the seats. The driver’s seat appeared lower than the passenger seat, so that would probably help a bit. I can definitely see how a late model NA would be a lot of fun. The NA would most likely be the one I’d get if I ever wanted to get a Miata.
"Boxer_4" (Boxer_4)
10/07/2017 at 20:04, STARS: 0
The ride seemed like something I could enjoy, or at least tolerate, for a decently long trip. It’s the cabin space - mainly headroom, that would be the issue, at least as a passenger. I felt like I was sitting too high, though I’m guessing that’s not an issue as the driver (the driver’s seat appeared lower to me, at least at a glance).