Help Me Decide: Miata MX-5 vs Porsche 944

"Jay Lauer" (thefaultinourcars)
12/15/2013 at 21:37 • Filed to: None

I've come down to two possible choices for my next mode of transportation. When spring comes, I'm looking to sell the E46 330xi, and buy something simpler. Most of all the criteria I'm about to list is based on logic, except this one. I've always wanted a convertible, but haven't had the opportunity to own one yet. Keep that in mind.

In the Red Corner: Porsche 944 Non-Turbo

-Looks better.

-Loads of Cargo Space

-Great driving position

-Gas Mileage

-More Comfortable Cruiser

-Better Low End Torque

-German Quality

-I get to tell people I drive a Porsche

If I can get a good 944 Turbo for cheap, all bets are off. I would buy that.

In the Blue Corner: Mazda Miata

-Better Gas Mileage

-Lighter

-Convertible

-Cheaper to Run

-Possibility of Power Adders

-Will Get Made Fun Of

-Cheaper to Buy

I should explain the use of the car as well. I don't aspire to do any tracks days. Even if I did, I don't want that to be the car's purpose. I drive back and forth to campus and work. 50/50 Mix of City/Highway driving. Gas Mileage is obviously important. Also, I have full access to my father's mechanic shop so I can do most all of my own work.

You can suggest other cars of course, I encourage it. Just don't be offended if I don't care for the choice. Also, I know the whole Miata argument about not caring what other people think of your car and all. It's just a fact that a Miata will be made fun of at some point, no matter how great it is.

Also, I'm not looking to sink in lots of money for modifications. Fixer uppers welcome. Mild tasteful mods at best. Lastly, and most importantly, I want to make money on this as well.

DISCUSSION (57)

Jeff-God-of-Biscuits > Jay Lauer
12/15/2013 at 21:39

" Lastly, and most importantly, I want to make money on this as well."

Welp, I got nothing. I'm out.

bcotter > Jay Lauer
12/15/2013 at 21:40

Based on my observations, there is no such thing as a "cheap" 944 Turbo. The non-turbo would be a much better car...

I have to say, I drove a Miata for a couple of years and absolutely loved it. A Miata would be my choice.

Laird Andrew Neby Bradleigh > Jay Lauer
12/15/2013 at 21:41

I'd buy the Porsche.. For me that'd be a better everyday car. Sure an MX-5 is fun and all that, but mostly at track days.. And how often would a convertible be a viable option in Europe?

Jay Lauer > Jeff-God-of-Biscuits
12/15/2013 at 21:42

The last five cars I've had (WRX, RX8, Mazda3, Two Mustangs) all made me money. It's not hard if you're willing to fix one back into it's prime.

Jay Lauer > bcotter
12/15/2013 at 21:44

See, I have yet to drive the Miata, so it's still a toss-up. My take so far is that the 944 just feels much more solid than the Miata, but it's more expensive to maintain.

And it's sad, cheap 944 Turbos are all but gone.

Casper > Jay Lauer
12/15/2013 at 21:45

Uh, you won't be making money on a cheap 944 Turbo. You will be lucky if it lets you keep any of your money and like it. The Miata is a little better because they are more desirable thanks to the dependability side of things... but to make money would still be a stretch.

In order to make money on any deal, it would completely depend on the deal you negotiate for the car. Realistically, you would be far more lucky to come out ahead on the Porsche than the Miata simply due to the tiny after market and Porsche tax on parts.

Jay Lauer > Laird Andrew Neby Bradleigh
12/15/2013 at 21:45

I'm more concerned about how viable an option it is in the States, where I live. You don't find the Miata as much fun during everyday driving?

Jay Lauer > Casper
12/15/2013 at 21:48

You're right, it depends on the deal. But, flipping cars is also what I do.

I just didn't want people prescribing cars that I couldn't sell. I think the Miata probably will be kinder to my wallet

Casper > Jay Lauer
12/15/2013 at 21:50

The Miata will also be an easier sell since they are both in the sports car realm, but it is 10-15 years newer, Japanese, convertible, and not a turbo Porsche. The 944s are fun, but not something you bought for dependability or nostalgia sake. Not to mention the cult following of the Miata is massive compared to the 944.

Laird Andrew Neby Bradleigh > Jay Lauer
12/15/2013 at 21:50

I've never driven any of them as a DD, but I have driven both a 944 and a MX-5 on track and on long and short trips. The MX-5 is a blast on track, not so much on longish trips.. the MX-5 was just not that comfortable, and I'm a rather short bloke (172cm). Sure the 944 is not perfect, but at least I could drive it for more than 15 minutes without needing to scoot around in the seat...

Jay Lauer > Casper
12/15/2013 at 21:55

True, I feel like I'm leaning towards Miata. I really just need to drive one to tell. I drove a 944 and it was great. It's a tad slow, but everything feels nice about it.

I also really like the quality feel of the 944 as a solid product, whereas the Miata feels a bit less.

You can tell I'm still torn about it.

Casper > Jay Lauer
12/15/2013 at 21:57

If you are buying it for what you enjoy, it's a very different thing than buying it with the plan to sell it. The longer you keep either car, the less likely you are to truly turn a profit unless they are collector condition.

Jay Lauer > Laird Andrew Neby Bradleigh
12/15/2013 at 22:03

Perhaps putting comfy seats in the Miata might help?

I did that to my old WRX is it made a drastic change in my enjoyment of the car

NinetyQ > Jay Lauer
12/15/2013 at 22:03

Neither. Unless you have a lot of time and patience for maintenance, the 944 isn't going to be the best choice. If you do, you'll still struggle to make money on one. The Miata isn't much better, but is more reliable.

If you don't want a track car, why not something less sporty and more reliable and comfortable?

Jay Lauer > NinetyQ
12/15/2013 at 22:05

Because I also want something that's exciting. I could get a beige Taurus, but I would drown in gray plastic and boredom. I still want to enjoy driving.

Would you have any suggestions besides the two in the article?

Laird Andrew Neby Bradleigh > Jay Lauer
12/15/2013 at 22:05

I guess some nice buckets from sparco or something would solve the problem :)

NinetyQ > Jay Lauer
12/15/2013 at 22:07

My Audi? lol, I don't know. Hmm...

Maybe a Corvette? Seems like the price range is fairly wide on C4s. Buy cheap, put some work into it, sell high.

Jay Lauer > Casper
12/15/2013 at 22:07

Well I try to buy and sell interesting cars, but normally for the ones I DD, I turn them over every six to nine months.

I buy a car with the option of selling it. I could buy a cheap AMG Mercedes and it may be great. But, they depreciate faster than falling stones so I would lose a lot of money owning it.

OneFastPuertoRican > Jay Lauer
12/15/2013 at 22:07

From a re-sale value, I think you'd be better off with an MX-5. I think we're a long way away from 944's being on par with the 911's of the 70's.

Are you looking for an S or S2, or just a base 944?

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > Jay Lauer
12/15/2013 at 22:08

Here is my question; are you a big guy? Someone like me, a 5' 11" 250 lb man looks ridiculous in a Miata... the Porsche is more... dare I say classy? Either way, the Porsche is cooler; but the Miata will be cheaper to run...

I'd go Porsche

Jay Lauer > NinetyQ
12/15/2013 at 22:09

What's your Audi?

C4's just don't seem to sell very high unless they're mid 90s and fastidiously maintained. They haven't quite started going up yet.

I thought about finding a good MR2 Turbo, but it's a bit difficult to find

Jay Lauer > OneFastPuertoRican
12/15/2013 at 22:10

an S or S2 is certainly welcome, but they're just more rare here.

I think you're right about re-sale.

Jay Lauer > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
12/15/2013 at 22:12

I'm 5'11" about 160 lbs, so what do you think? Is it you're height or size that makes the Miata look ridiculous?

JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder! > Jay Lauer
12/15/2013 at 22:15

I'm not sure on older Miatas but I sat in a new 2013 model at the auto show and my line of sight was right at the top of the windscreen....

I think it was mainly my size becuase trying to squeeze into the tight cockpit isn't easy... but height plays a factor

NinetyQ > Jay Lauer
12/15/2013 at 22:21

My Audi is a 1991 Audi 90 Quattro 20V. Asking $3600 for it, but that's probably a bit cheeky for something you're wanting to flip for profit. You could probably get another grand out of it if you really smoothed out its flaws, but it would take a lot of work, and it's probably not worth it. Better to drive as is and sell for a similar price later on. Or higher if the value increases.

Kinja'd!!!

The MR2 thing reminded me, what about Fieros?

Dr.d > Jay Lauer
12/15/2013 at 22:25

My dad had 2 non turbo 944s when I was growing up. One, an '83 was pretty solid although it was still pretty new at the time. The other, an '88 was an absolute basket case. Nothing but problem after problem. Shift linkage, door handles, headlight mechanism, sunroof gear broke several times, car had tons of electrical problems, motor issues etc etc etc and it's a porsche so replacement parts aren't cheap. On a positive note, that black '88 is the car that made me a gear head and some of my favorite childhood memories are working on that thing with dad. I would love to one day own a guards red turbo but I would never consider one for my only car or dd, that's just a million headaches waiting to happen.

OneFastPuertoRican > Jay Lauer
12/15/2013 at 22:29

Well since you have access to your dad's shop (and I'm guessing your dad's free labor), I'd probably opt for the 944.

Have you also considered an early 90's MR-2? It's a good little car provided you don't have to haul anything larger a case of beer.

And if you squint your eyes, it looks like a shorter 944.

Kinja'd!!!

It's a "Porch-uh" > Jay Lauer
12/15/2013 at 22:31

The same adage goes for old 911s as old 944s - the expensive ones are the same price as the cheap ones, you'll just end up paying later for the cheap ones. Expect to get a 944 turbo for $8-10K.

The Real Dacia Sandero > Jay Lauer
12/15/2013 at 22:33

I'm 6'5" and about 165 and drive an NA. I make it work.

beardsbynelly - Rikerbeard > OneFastPuertoRican
12/15/2013 at 22:43

I've fit 4 cases of beer and 3 bags of ice in my MR2, two in the trunk, one carried by the passenger, and the 4th broken up into 6 packs stashed behind the seats.

The ice filled whatever voids were left that they could fit in the trunk or frunk.

MIATAAAA > Jay Lauer
12/15/2013 at 22:58

What do I think???

NoahthePorscheGuy > Jay Lauer
12/15/2013 at 23:12

Why not consider a 944 convertible. They are much cheaper because they often aren't bought up by the Porsche 944 track day enthusiasts.

daniil smarms > Jay Lauer
12/15/2013 at 23:55

I drive an mx5 now ('93), and my previous car was a 944('85.5). I miss the sounds—both the deeper, more aggressive engine sound and the solid clunk you get when you close the door—and way the interior felt and the way the whole thing looked. Mine was black, and it was serious and sharp, like the jawline of a cartoon spy. I miss the internal feeling of having a Porsche, of being permitted to experience Porscheness daily.

I don't miss having to tell people who don't care about cars that I drive a Porsche. I don't miss the big, wobbly gear lever. I don't miss the expense and difficulty of maintaining it, or giving up and accepting that the rear latch isn't going to work properly and that the sunroof maybe doesn't need to come off. I don't miss the big, mysterious relay that sometimes caused the car to shut off in traffic and sometimes didn't.

I prefer how the mx5 drives. It's charming. The mx5 is lively in a way the 944 never really was. The revs are high at highway speed, and with mine the sound resonates in the hardtop, which is annoying, but I've never gotten out of it having not enjoyed my time in it. Even after 5 hour trips. Maybe I'm particularly suited to discomfort, though.

I like that it has a stigma. Fuck whoever doesn't like it. Anyone who doesn't look at an mx5 and realize that it's probably the most fun thing that exists probably isn't any fun to be around.

I have typed more than I intended to.

Overall: they're both old cars, and I think out-of-date charm (the mx5) is more rewarding than out-of-date seriousness (the 944).

If you want to make money on it, though. I don't know. Buy the mx5 for less, and invest the difference in gold or whatever?

Jay Lauer > daniil smarms
12/16/2013 at 00:56

Props for bring up the German door-clunk. Driving a BMW now, it's such a rewarding sound hearing it thump full of German engineering.

You definitely sound like the most knowledgable on the subject yet, so I definitely value your opinion. I have to say I'm biased now towards the Miata.

To make money, I'll probably buy a fixer upper and nurse it back to my high standards of car care. Possibly throw a turbo on it.

Jay Lauer > NoahthePorscheGuy
12/16/2013 at 00:56

944 convertibles are more expensive because they're exclusively S2's.

Also, I don't see it appreciating at all.

Jay Lauer > MIATAAAA
12/16/2013 at 00:57

You clearly strike me as a Porsche enthusiast. No need to ask.

Jay Lauer > It's a "Porch-uh"
12/16/2013 at 01:00

It differs slightly because of the resources I have. Cheaper parts, workspace, my own labor, etc.

Honestly, half the time it's a matter of making a more tasteful car. The WRX I had was so untasteful when I first got it. I made some minor changes, made it look more appropriate, cleaned it top to bottom, and made about $4500 profit from it. Craigslist flipping can be done.

Jay Lauer > beardsbynelly - Rikerbeard
12/16/2013 at 01:03

I have a feeling my drum set, nor my guitars will fit in there. I've always been entranced by it, and I probably could flip one. But I fear it may not be practical, even for a couple suitcases.

Jay Lauer > NinetyQ
12/16/2013 at 01:06

The car looks great, especially for any 90s Audi I've seen, but it's just to my interest to own. Also, I haven't a clue what state it's in.

Fieros aren't ever going to rise in value, even the decent Fiero GTs. Also, they have even less trunk space, somehow, than an MR2.

beardsbynelly - Rikerbeard > Jay Lauer
12/16/2013 at 05:13

you should give up on the MX-5 then too, it has less boot space than a mk2 MR2.

The MR2 is about the same width boot as an MX-5, but it's a fair amount deeper. (220L vs 150L I think) I've fit a Gibson SG in there in a soft case, and my brother had his thunderbird bass with him in the passenger seat. I don't think an acoustic guitar would fit with a passenger.

You won't fit a bass drum in any of the cars you suggested, let alone an entire kit. buy a van or wagon if you want to carry one around.

wkiernan > Jay Lauer
12/16/2013 at 07:37

I was going to say "Miata" of course, but then I read the part about "I have full access to my father's mechanic shop," so I'm going to (uncharacteristically) recommend the Porsche. My sister had one of those once, and I got to drive it a couple times, and Hell Yeah , provided you can elude those $900 tune-ups (this was in late '80s dollars, btw).

wkiernan > Jay Lauer
12/16/2013 at 07:39

I'm 5'-11" and I drive Miatas, so I can tell you you'll fit, but you wouldn't if you were three inches taller.

rabidpenguin > Jay Lauer
12/16/2013 at 10:01

Don't mind large bills for parts and a a nightmare of a car to work on? Porsche

Open top, simple, reliable motoring? Miata.

I had a '86.5 N/A, and it was a blast to drive. However it was a real PITA to work on, and the parts were NOT cheap. Gas mileage? I was getting in the teens around town. I don't think an N/A would be that much faster than a Miata in a straight line. There is so much more to go wrong on the 944 as well. I think insurance would probably be better on the Miata. The 944 has the exclusivity and rarity attached to driving it. I also think the styling is worlds ahead of the Miata.

If you are willing to put in the time and aggravation, I think the 944 will be more rewarding.

Jay Lauer > wkiernan
12/16/2013 at 12:36

Luckily, I don't give a shit about any of my taller friends, so score one for the Miata!

NinetyQ > Jay Lauer
12/16/2013 at 13:35

DOHC 5-cylinder, 5-speed manual, decent suspension, power oversteer on loose surfaces... it's not a bad car really. Needs a little work, primarily a new or patched exhaust. I have equal-length headers and a new catalytic converter ready to go on it if I ever decide to do it.

Anyway, I'm not so sure about Fieros. I think one thing holding them back is that they still don't look all that old when they're in good condition. Give 'em another 10 years, and I think they'll start to go up. They're the first mid-engine mass-produced American car, after all. And so far the only one I'm aware of.

mcseanerson > Jay Lauer
12/17/2013 at 21:55

I have a hard time answering this because in my mind the only porsches are 911 boxster and cayman. Everything else is too expensive or too crappy. Personally as far as porsches go I am looking at eventually moving into a 996 manual coupe, that or a really nice boxster or decent cayman. I have little kids that would enjoy the backseats and that's one of the main things that has me on a big kick for a 911 right now. Get one before the kids are too big to enjoy it with me.

Personally between the two mentioned I would get the miata. As for cool factor just throw crazy exhaust and itbs on and you won't be able to hear the jerks.

Honestly for your desired use though both choices seem horrible. I want a miata for a commuter car but there are two important reasons behind it.

1: I'm a masochist.

2: I also want to take it to autocross and eventually track days.

You don't seem to have those reasons so I would lean towards other convertibles like a nice saab or a e30.

Jeremy H formerly Kalakaboooom > Jay Lauer
12/17/2013 at 22:02

If money is an issue, get the Miata. As you can tell from my picture I own a 944. A 1986 n/a. It's an awesome car but also a pain in the ass. I'm doing my own clutch job. A clutch kit costs about 700 bucks, and that's not counting the other things you will need, triple squares, extra jack stands for the torque tube, oh yeah, transmissions in the back. If you can stomach it when it gets tough, get the 944. It will drive yyou crazy and piss you off but you'll come out a better mechanic because of it, and you'll love it even more. As for the Miata, I've never even driven one. Just remember when you buy one, one is a Porsche, the other is a Mazda.
And just reread your post, you can always grab a 944 cab as well, they have been going down in price lately so you might get lucky. If you go with a 944 and don't want the turbo try to get the later models, like the S2 as well. But I can go on and on just let me know if you wanna know more.

PhiLOL (slowcarSLOW-MPGlol) > JQJ213- Now With An Extra Cylinder!
12/18/2013 at 13:55

I'd have to disagree with you. If you're concerned about how other people think you look, go with the Miata. It's starting to have a real "vintage sports car" appeal so people think you're a jovial chap out getting his jollies by motoring about. Unless you mod it into oblivion, in which case you'll just look like a tool.

PhiLOL (slowcarSLOW-MPGlol) > Jay Lauer
12/18/2013 at 13:59

I DD a 95 Miata and it puts a smile on my face every day. Every. Day. You want to forget to buy something at the grocery store so you have an excuse to drive it again. You will put the top down and drive until you're lost, then turn on your GPS to make it home. Your gas costs will increase not from fuel efficiency, but because of sheer use. An agonizing pain will enter your life after owning it, one you'll soon diagnose as the realization that there are actually times in your life where you're not behind the wheel of it, and it's miserable.

(I've never driven the 944 so I can't compare. I've heard it's a fine automobile.)

PhiLOL (slowcarSLOW-MPGlol) > Jay Lauer
12/18/2013 at 14:00

There are fewer and fewer clean, rust-free (are you in the South?) NA Miatas in the world and they are starting to appreciate. I could see them gaining $2k-3k in five years.

PhiLOL (slowcarSLOW-MPGlol) > It's a "Porch-uh"
12/18/2013 at 14:02

"Always buy the newest, nicest Porsche you can find." - Every article/post/spoken advice from a Porsche enthusiast, anywhere, ever.

PhiLOL (slowcarSLOW-MPGlol) > Jay Lauer
12/18/2013 at 14:05

Just so you're aware, most people don't get more than 29 mpg out of their NA Miatas. I typically average 26-28 if I drive somewhat conservatively on probably 60% highway driving.

Wonk Unit > Jay Lauer
12/18/2013 at 18:19

I've owned both, and the Miata is the one i still have. You've outlined most of the main points but The Porsche will cost more to run, and DO NOT buy a cheap 944 Turbo. as for making money on the car? good luck, but dont' count on it.

Jay Lauer > PhiLOL (slowcarSLOW-MPGlol)
12/18/2013 at 20:37

I heard fairly consistent reports of 30-32 mpg.

Inflame333 > Jay Lauer
12/19/2013 at 10:48

E36 M3. Roomy, sporty, sexy. Do it.

PhiLOL (slowcarSLOW-MPGlol) > Jay Lauer
12/19/2013 at 17:26

For the NA 1.8, typically not quite that high. Here's a poll and a thread.

ThatVikingGuy > Jay Lauer
03/06/2018 at 20:27

So, 5 years later... which one did you pick?