Miata NC Query: Does the Grand Touring Model Differ in Performance/Setup to the Base Model?

"Tim (Fractal Footwork)" (fractalfootwork)
05/27/2014 at 17:42 • Filed to: Miata, Mazda, MX-5, NC, Nerdy Querry

Looking for an NC currently and trying to find a good one within budget.

DISCUSSION (6)

Takuro Spirit > Tim (Fractal Footwork)
05/27/2014 at 17:50

Bilsteins and LSD were only available on the higher spec models. I think in 2006 you could get a Club Spec Miata which was a base with the nice suspension setup for Spec Miata racing.

MazdaMonkey > Tim (Fractal Footwork)
05/27/2014 at 17:54

Assuming you are talking about the NC1 (as pictured). The only major differences are the availability of the 6 speed manual (v. 5 speed), wheel size 17 (v. 16), an LSD without adding the sport package, and stability control.

Most trim levels during most years could also add the sport package, which added Bilstein yellow shocks and an LSD. You could also get the LSD on the GT premium package without the Bilsteins. Most people will tell you that both the Bilsteins and the stock shocks are garbage and to change out the springs/shocks regardless.

I would check out Miata.net. There are tons more resources there.

If by "base model" you mean the SV, well then that is an entirely different performance ball game.

RotaryLover > MazdaMonkey
05/27/2014 at 18:15

Is it crap, but with RX8s yellow dot sway bars (red dots work well also) and better springs, the OEM Bilsteins becomes great!

RotaryLover > Tim (Fractal Footwork)
05/27/2014 at 18:22

So the bite took you too eh? :D Just get one with the sport package, the 6 speed, the LSD and the bilstein suspension and add Rx8s yellow dot sway bars. The base model....kinda sucks unless you plan to add the lsd and get the beefier 6 spd or want the ultimate lightweight NC. Avoid the 2007 models as they had issues with the engine. 2006s don't have a height adjustable driver seat.

D > Tim (Fractal Footwork)
05/27/2014 at 18:28

Folks have covered it. But the short list:

Base model doesn't have Bilstein shocks, a 6-speed, or an LSD. Touring and Grand Touring do.

vchengap > Tim (Fractal Footwork)
05/27/2014 at 18:31

I believe the lower trim levels come without stability control if that is important to you. But if you do get a model with DSC, rest assured that it it can be completely defeated by the push of a button.