You'll Have to Speak Up, I'm Wearing a Miata...

"-Amateur" (amateur) 06/11/2020 at 07:13 • Filed to: None

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You would do well to remember 6/2/2020, the day I officially bought a Miata. It’s all really a blur and I was drunk for most of it, but profit ??

So I’m on my potato and as addicted as I was to Facebook Marketplace, I grew weary and bored of it and recently found myself with a new girlfriend, Carvanna. Now I’m not going to give them a plug, that’s why they pay millions of dollars to advertise elsewhere...but their car catalog is pretty stellar and the whole experience really is stress free and fun, I’ll just leave it at that.

Anyways, did I need a new car? Absolutely not. This year, as for many of us has been challenging. I needed to bring that pep in my step back, I needed a spontaneous new purchase to err , do my part to stimulate that economy.

I needed a Hyundai Veloster Turbo.   Wait, what?

Yeah, I almost got that damn white Veloster hot hatch with its seating for 4 and some semblance of luggage capacity. Call it a gut feeling but something was telling me not to commit to a practical, fun, turbocharged daily driver.

Maybe I was tired of the status quo. Maybe it was my recent binge-watching of Game of Thrones, watching it in all its glory for the first time ( I’m late to the party as usual ). Maybe it was my misdirected anger at how horrible season 8 was that led me here.

I went for the Japanese roadster with only 2 seats, a “cozy” cabin where my head touches the roof and nonexistent trunk capacity.

BUT AS GOD IS MY WITNESS, IT IS GLORIOUS.

Let me back up.

I get there’s a massive cult following for the Miata.

I get the whole hype of it being the end all, be all ‘purist’ car; Particularly the NA, NB, and NDs...the fans kinda skip the NC for whatever reason.

Do I drink the Kool-aid?

I don’t want to, but I’ve just had my first sip of a very tall glass.

I like my cars in all shapes and sizes and can equally have as much fun with a beat-up old ‘80s Pontiac family hauler, a fatty Ford Econoline or a Dodge Intrepid for that matter as I can with a slick sports car.

There is just ONE reason why this car is different from all the rest.

It’s because you don’t drive it, you wear it.

The car is a damn extension of yourself and let me tell you, it has given me more smiles per mile than any car in my life.

I’ve landed an Mx-5 with the premium and suspension package checkmarked on the options list. That gives me Bilstein shocks and a factory limited slip diff, among other creature comforts.

2500 lbs, near 50/50 weight distribution, rear wheel drive, a close ratio 6 spd manual transmission and an engine that likes to sing all the way up to its 7500 RPM cutoff. That’s the magic.

I’m still in the honeymoon phase with it, so here’s a funny little story. When I went to fill the Miata up at the gas station for the first time, I had to Google a Youtube video on how to open the fuel door. I couldn’t figure it out.

Turns out the fuel door opener is hidden in the center storage compartment; You open it up, just pull that ring tab tucked in there and viola!

Thanks for reading! Bonus pic of my other 2 seater convertible sports car:

TheRealBicycleBuck > -Amateur 06/11/2020 at 07:56

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My sleep-addled brain thought you were saying that the fuel filler was in the center console.... it’s time for coffee.

Poor_Sh > -Amateur 06/11/2020 at 07:56

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Welcome to the club! We meet on Tuesdays under the bridge by the train tracks. Sic semper tyrannis!

Cash Rewards > -Amateur 06/11/2020 at 07:59

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One of us! One of us!

Congratulations! That particular style (NC3?) is my favorite NC. And yes, they're bigger and heavier than my NB, but they're also based on the same platform (to some extent) as the Rx-8, which was a spectacular handling car by all accounts. They still hold they own at autocross. Well, as much as anything can against the ND.

Just Jeepin' > -Amateur 06/11/2020 at 08:01

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Congratulations! Having to ask the Internet how to fill up reminds me of the time I rented an S2000 via Turo; it was starting to sprinkle, so I pulled over to put up the soft top and realized I didn’t know how. The control wouldn’t work.

A little stressful, but finally found someone pointing out on a forum that you need to have the parking brake engaged. Definitely not obvious, although I understand the motivation.

someassemblyrequired > -Amateur 06/11/2020 at 08:26

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NC is really underrated.   I love my NA but the best smile per dollar value right now is the NC.

-Amateur > Cash Rewards 06/11/2020 at 08:27

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Glad to be in the club! I totally look forward to see how it does on AutoX, a ll I’ve ever raced out there are FWDers. It’ll be nice to expand my palatte.

Nom De Plume > -Amateur 06/11/2020 at 08:32

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You do know this is a “Cars and Bids” only site now.

A lot of lips are being bitten over  this illicit exploration of quirks and features in the background , I assure you!

Arrivederci > -Amateur 06/11/2020 at 08:52

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Yassssssss! Welcome to the fold. One nice mod that I can see yours has is the Sport grille. That’s a nicer-looking option than the standard grille that came in the Touring and Grand Touring models.

Keep an eye on the coolant overflow tank - they’re prone to get brittle and crack in old age.  OE replacements are $50ish and an easy swap.  Or you can get an aluminum one from Moroso for quite a lot more.

-Amateur > Arrivederci 06/11/2020 at 09:18

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Total fan of this grille over  that other shiny lined bezel one. Thanks for the tip, I’ll definitely keep my eye on that!

HFV has no HFV. But somehow has 2 motorcycles > -Amateur 06/11/2020 at 09:18

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You were right to steer away from the Veloster. I test drove a 2017 Turbo Spec R before I bought my e90 and it was just over all disappointing.

It wasn’t all that fast, the steering was dumb, the interior felt... like a Hyundia. It was missing some key features I’d expect from the price range, like heated seats, and a sunroof. Oh and the shifter didn’t feel great either.

It just wasn’t very engaging to drive, or that impressive to sit in, and for something that was at the very very top of my price range it wasn’t going to cut it.

HFV has no HFV. But somehow has 2 motorcycles > -Amateur 06/11/2020 at 09:24

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I worked a ton a gas station for 5 years, you are not the only person to have trouble getting their fuel filler door open. Most notable was the guy who was borrowing his son’s E60 5 series and came in confused Be he couldn’t find the fuel door, so I pointed out that it was on the passenger side, then he couldn’t find the button to open it, so I walked up and tapped it open.

I also have lots of people who rented, or recently purchased new Fords who were very concerned that they didn’t have a gas cap, a few asked if we sell them   because theirs is missing...

-Amateur > HFV has no HFV. But somehow has 2 motorcycles 06/11/2020 at 09:39

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I was always drawn to the quirky looks of the Veloster. It’s definitely on the slow side for being a turbo for sure but I think my biggest gripe was that Hyundai couldn’t have been bothered to upgrade the suspension from the normal base model in turbo trim. I kept comparing it to the  Focus ST which is an absolute snack to drive.

-Amateur > HFV has no HFV. But somehow has 2 motorcycles 06/11/2020 at 09:42

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I’ll raise my hand to the Ford gas cap thing . It happened when I was driving a Ford Transit at work. What a time to be alive! 

HFV has no HFV. But somehow has 2 motorcycles > -Amateur 06/11/2020 at 09:58

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I haven’t driven either of the ST twins but I’d hope they are better. People certainly describe them as being better than my Veloster experience. 

anyunusedusername > -Amateur 06/11/2020 at 10:14

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Here’s mine; it was paid for on 5/30. =p Also, the reason I bought the damned Miata is because when I was a teenager, I had a Alfa Spider that barely ran but when it did, joy. Congrats on your new silver suit, I love mine as well.

MiniGTI - now with XJ6 > -Amateur 06/11/2020 at 10:16

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Yes excellent.

I have a TR6 in my garage which I dearly love driving and my wife loves riding in. Driving dynamics are garbage but DAT INLINE 6 MUSIC.

Now have a wild 3-year old and my wife stuck at home with him. Drove by a local used car lot and notice they had no less than 3 SAAB convertibles — this filled me with bad ideas.

But picked on ups a few weeks ago. It drives like a Camry but having the whole family for that top down lyfe = priceless.

-Amateur > MiniGTI - now with XJ6 06/11/2020 at 10:50

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So much yes to this! I love the looks of any British  roadster  and that Saab is gorgeous! You can't beat the freedom of a drop top car, convertibles are fun for the whole family.

-Amateur > anyunusedusername 06/11/2020 at 10:58

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Mega awesome! I see you have lightweight RPF1s and the PRHT. How’s the cabin noise with the retractable hardtop? It’s funny that these cars have a Bose sound system and it just gets drowned out on the highway because there’s like zero sound insulation in these things.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > -Amateur 06/11/2020 at 11:17

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When I rented an s2k, that I had the most trouble of any car in finding the damn fuel release. It is located to the left of the driver way up near your shoulder almost. I looked EVERYWHERE. And of course center armrest was the first place I looked since I drive a Miata. Then I assumed on the floor because Honda and thats where it was in my civic. Then somewhere under the dash because many cars do that I suppose. Then in the middle ANYWHERE because why not. Then passenger side because japanese car?? Finally had to youtube it after 10 minutes in this gas station with my girlfriend getting concerned we were gonna be stuck forever. Finally found it thanks to the interwebs but that was the only time ive been that perplexed.

Well American cars sometimes confuse me more. Since they usually dont have a release at all, its just push to open. But I didnt know that on a few rentals until I figured out it was just a thing.

And dont worry, Miatas are plenty practical if you try hard enough!

-Amateur > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 06/11/2020 at 11:42

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It’s funny because at some point in the design process, everybody huddled around and said “ that’s it!” “ That’s the best spot for the fuel door release!” I’ve seen an NB Miata with a mini tow trailer attached to it loaded with spare tires before. But you’re next level! That is so awesome! 

Who is the Leader - 404 / Blog No Longer Available > -Amateur 06/11/2020 at 12:11

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I love the photos. Very suitable aesthetic.

How much did you pay for that NC? And the mileage? Just wondering as a potential near future Miata owner. Looks pretty minty from this side of the computer screen.

And my my my that Alfa is rusty.

Who is the Leader - 404 / Blog No Longer Available > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 06/11/2020 at 12:15

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Fuel door releases are endlessly fascinating . I should do a post some time. Huh.

My car, you just push it in from the outside. No lock there. Most American cars I’ve been in (mainly Ferds falling apart at the seams, but Ford era Volvos do the same ) there is a button under the dash and then it just swings open. Then you’ve got the archaic key hole type (possibly a safety feature since you have to take the key out of the ignition in my dad’s truck).

Who is the Leader - 404 / Blog No Longer Available > HFV has no HFV. But somehow has 2 motorcycles 06/11/2020 at 12:22

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ARG FORDS DUMB FILLER CAP I HATE IT SO SO SO SO MUCH!

I had to fill my brother’s Fusion up with a gas can because he let in run out of gas in the driveway and then hired me to detail it. I tried to fill it up with a normal funnel and the gas kept going and and ending up on the ground. The stupid patent funnel thing was too short to actually pour the gas in so I had to use TWO FUNNELS!

HFV has no HFV. But somehow has 2 motorcycles > Who is the Leader - 404 / Blog No Longer Available 06/11/2020 at 12:23

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There’s a special adapter in the trunk. With the flat tire kit.

~was a Ford salesmen one 2013 

Who is the Leader - 404 / Blog No Longer Available > HFV has no HFV. But somehow has 2 motorcycles 06/11/2020 at 12:27

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I found it. . . after wasting a lot of gas on the ground and some furious googling. Why does a normal funnel not work with it? The included funnel was too short to actually do anything so I had to double up.

MiniGTI - now with XJ6 > -Amateur 06/11/2020 at 13:10

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Since you asked, other denizens of my garage.

Also 2013 MINI and 2016 V60. TOO MANY CARS!!

MacroMan > -Amateur 06/11/2020 at 13:14

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Change out the coolant reservoir immediately, it should be the same color as the washer reservoir. They tend to fail at the neck, taking your engine with it. They’re $65 and it only takes 30 min max. 

Arrivederci > -Amateur 06/11/2020 at 13:18

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Yep - aside from that, these things are pretty stout. If the trans ever gets notchy, the Motorcraft XT-M 5-Q S is supposed to work magic.

anyunusedusername > -Amateur 06/11/2020 at 14:13

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It’s loud but it’s not awful convertible loud if that makes any sense. Have had targa corvettes and several other convertibles over the years and it’s the most quiet of the lot but it’s still a vert with a thin top . Under 45 or so (who does that!?), it’s very normal conversation level comfortable . Anything above that and well, e very car has SOMETHING that’s not perfect. ;)

The tires, wheels and coils make for a pretty stiff ride and the header doesn’t help the noise either. Will be switching the header for the complete ma gna flow exhaust all the way through next time she needs a smog and should cut some drone a bit too.

I’ll be updating all the audio after I pay taxes next year and will be picking some especially bright speakers (likely focal) to help cut through  the higher speed noise a bit. I’ll add some heat and noise material where it makes sense when I do the audio updates. I don’t expect a lot but that not where this sublime little car shines and I’m thoroughly pleased as she is, but a jalop gotta jalop.

anyunusedusername > MiniGTI - now with XJ6 06/11/2020 at 14:21

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I do so love a green TR. just wonderful little things. 

ZHP Sparky, the 5th > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 06/11/2020 at 14:34

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Haha came here to say this. Distinctly remember the first time I gassed up my S2k after I bought it. Was at night and in the rain, in Los Altos, CA with me waiting for YouTube to load on my phone, hogging up a gas pump while not using it .

At least in the Miata it seems like once you get in to the center console there is a fuel sign next to it - so maybe you saw it when checking out the car before. On this damn thing its just a tiny black plastic knob with zero marking, looks like a screw or some form of fastening. Look at it as a security feature?

Miata lover oregon > -Amateur 06/11/2020 at 14:54

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I have an NC, first day, gas station. Ten minutes looking for that little pull ring. Hilarious. This car is simply Prozac on wheels.

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > -Amateur 06/11/2020 at 15:26

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The roll bar just makes a perfect place to mount things too. Since its obviously gotta be sturdy enough and mounted well enough to survive the weight of the car thrown onto it, it’s perfect for holding down stuff. I’ve used it for tires, my mountain bike, and plenty of camping gear and luggage.

And the trunk lid works well with a luggage rack for mounting all sorts of stuff. I've done tires on there too but it's a bit over the weight limit and not as secure. Skiis and luggage fit real well there though. 

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > ZHP Sparky, the 5th 06/11/2020 at 15:28

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With the miata I still had to ask when I bought it. But I had never seen a miata before in person so I just asked the previous owner for an explanation.

And yeah the unmarked nature on top of the location is what had me so perplexed in the s2k haha

Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) > Who is the Leader - 404 / Blog No Longer Available 06/11/2020 at 15:32

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Anything is fine as long as it’s intuitive. There shouldnt be ANYTHING in a car really that is hard to figure out or requires reading a manual. In some cars they definitely fail at this concept though for operating power convertibles, power mirrors, and adjusting the damn gauge/radio brightness. I hate when I have to dig through menus to turn off bright as hell gauges on a rental car. I want that shit as dim as possible at all times. The dimmest setting is always visible in full sun, I hate hate hate cars like that haha. That’s why I loved a Nissan maxima I rented that had a full off setting  for every light emitting thing. 

Who is the Leader - 404 / Blog No Longer Available > Wrong Wheel Drive (41%) 06/11/2020 at 15:43

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Yes, but sometimes design constri ctions from existing hardware mean placement is compromised. The single lock/unlock button in my Cruze confuses everyone but it is clearly marked and is easier than window switches. The first time I filled it up I was confused about the gas cap and then I pressed on it to discover it had no locking mechanism. Ford's stupid capless thing with the funnel is much more opaque. Burying basic controls in a menu must suck.

-Amateur > MiniGTI - now with XJ6 06/11/2020 at 17:08

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What a sight, thanks for sharing!

Chan - Mid-engine with cabin fever > -Amateur 06/11/2020 at 18:49

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Congrats, e njoy safely! The visceral feel of a bare-bones sports car cannot be matched by most other cars.

-Amateur > Who is the Leader - 404 / Blog No Longer Available 06/12/2020 at 08:59

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I paid $15k with around 66000 miles on the odometer for the grand touring spec with all the options minus the power retractable hardtop which is about the ballpark for an 8 year old NC.  Not to shabby considering these cars almost touched $30k when new.  Let's just say I would be shocked to to see an old Alfa WITHOUT rust, truly a labor of love! 

Who is the Leader - 404 / Blog No Longer Available > -Amateur 06/12/2020 at 11:21

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That seems pretty good for a top spec low miles and excellently maintained example. I wish you a long and happy ownership.

I live far below the rust belt, but even then, classic European roadsters often have copious amounts of rust. Of course, you also have to factor in that no one who lives here is from here and many of their expensive toys were brought from other states with them.

Jake - Has Bad Luck So You Don't Have To > -Amateur 06/12/2020 at 13:15

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Welcome to NC ownership. Go to LKQ and grab yourself some RX8 sway bars. Also, that coolant tank looks marginal. i’d change that ASAP as it’s a killer of NCs. I actually made a youtube video of the process on my channel https://youtube.com/100percentjake

George A Bifano > -Amateur 06/12/2020 at 14:32

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WOW! I have the same exact story! Purchased my 07 end of May. Grand Touring edition in Copper Red Mica/Saddle with a retractable hardtop. LOVE this car!

WPR > -Amateur 06/12/2020 at 22:00

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Be sure to spend a few bucks to upgrade the coolant tank to an aluminum one. The stock plastic ones tend to crack and fail (the tank is a pressurized part of the coolant system), so it's cheap and easy insurance. Welcome to the NC family! 

WPR > Who is the Leader - 404 / Blog No Longer Available 06/12/2020 at 22:04

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Great deals can be had if you are patient. I got my '12 GT PRHT last year with 70k miles and one owner in perfect condition for 13k.

WPR > George A Bifano 06/12/2020 at 22:13

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I have an identical 2012 model . Best car I’ve ever owned.

Jim Spanfeller > -Amateur 06/13/2020 at 00:13

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Dang. On my car, you literally just open the little door by hand and unscrew the cap. No lock or release of any kind. Extremely convenient, if significantly easier to steal fuel from...

-Amateur > Jake - Has Bad Luck So You Don't Have To 06/13/2020 at 07:50

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And Bookmarked! Thanks! I’ve already have a new expansion tank on its way since everyone told me about that weak spot. If I can avoid an engine meltdown, I’m all for it. 

-Amateur > George A Bifano 06/13/2020 at 07:55

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What a gorgeous color combo!