I need a car that gets good mileage, have about $12-13K to work with. Suggestions? Much as I'd love to drive a '63 Falcon everyday, this commute is a bitch. Need a late model. The Focus is a total loss. At least the bastard missed my truck.
Low mileage used:
Miata?
Another Focus with manual tranny?
Civic with intake and fart can exhaust? ;)
Something with personality would be nice.
You live in Sandy Eggo. Miata, for sure. Top down all the time!
Sandyeggo, no kids.
Miata
Solara
Miata
Miata
You'd love how easy Miatas are to work on. Longitudinal engine, plenty of room under the hood, sensibly and reliably built.
Mustang.
Prius
I like the styling. A lot of people hate it though.
The answer, of course, is Miata.
Two best suggestions are included above, but from my point of view:
1. If you want to have a fun car that can also be an efficient commuter, Miata really does make a lot of sense. they are small, agile, and get relatively good gas mileage. With the amount available you mentioned in the OP I think you would find a ton of low mileage NC Miata's available.
2. If you just want to most efficient commuter possible, Prius is probably the right answer.
If you wanted something more traditional, another Focus would be fine. I think Civic's are generally considered the best of the class for that type of car, but you are probably going to pay a premium vs a Focus, Cruise, or even Corolla.
New Mitsubishi Space Star? CHEAP and FUEL EFFICIENT.
(https://s31.wheelsage.org/format/picture/picture-gallery/m/mitsubishi/space_star/mitsubishi_space_star_4_05ce042b0522037a.jpg)
XJ
Or, you can buy my Fiesta. It has 12,508 miles.
But not if I drive it to Califirnia. :lol:
(https://i.postimg.cc/c1PhgGyd/Raptor-3-Wheel-Silver.jpg)
Quote from: Eye of the Tiger on February 07, 2020, 06:41:08 AM
XJ
Or, you can buy my Fiesta. It has 12,508 miles.
But not if I drive it to Califirnia. :lol:
Oddly enough, a Fiesta is a really good option (if he doesn't go the Miata route). Probably more efficient than the Focus and potentially more fun as well.
Spent some time looking online. There's a nice '17 Mazda 6, soul red, loaded touring model. Nice, comfortable, quiet car. I spend 2 hours a day driving, so...
A bunch of Miatas. They changed the body style in '16 I think. Not much price difference. Don't know if it was just a styling update or a redesign.
You guys that own them, are they difficult to get in and out of?
Quote from: FoMoJo on February 07, 2020, 06:59:52 AM
(https://i.postimg.cc/c1PhgGyd/Raptor-3-Wheel-Silver.jpg)
Haha. Not quite yet. :lol:
It's a small and low open sportscar, so I'll not lie and say it isn't any more difficult than say a Fiesta. Getting in is easy, and it coddles you like nothing else. Getting out can be hilarious and painful for us old folk, but it's still worth it.
Quote from: 2o6 on February 06, 2020, 10:33:17 PM
Mustang.
+1
A Mustang would be easier to get in and out of than a Miata (I think)
Quote from: CaminoRacer on February 07, 2020, 08:07:10 AM
+1
A Mustang would be easier to get in and out of than a Miata (I think)
There was a nice, drop top, 2.3L Ecoboost Mustang in my price range. Damn thing was white, though. No more white cars.
Quote from: Rockraven on February 07, 2020, 08:05:21 AM
It's a small and low open sportscar, so I'll not lie and say it isn't any more difficult than say a Fiesta. Getting in is easy, and it coddles you like nothing else. Getting out can be hilarious and painful for us old folk, but it's still worth it.
What kind of mileage do you get?
Quote from: cawimmer430 on February 07, 2020, 06:19:32 AM
New Mitsubishi Space Star? CHEAP and FUEL EFFICIENT.
(https://s31.wheelsage.org/format/picture/picture-gallery/m/mitsubishi/space_star/mitsubishi_space_star_4_05ce042b0522037a.jpg)
Mitsubishi has a somewhat less than stellar reputation here. I would opt for that over some other brands, though.
Quote from: shp4man on February 07, 2020, 07:53:00 AM
Spent some time looking online. There's a nice '17 Mazda 6, soul red, loaded touring model. Nice, comfortable, quiet car. I spend 2 hours a day driving, so...
A bunch of Miatas. They changed the body style in '16 I think. Not much price difference. Don't know if it was just a styling update or a redesign.
You guys that own them, are they difficult to get in and out of?
I would suggest trying getting in and out of one before doing any serious looking. A few years ago, when I was about your age, I sat in one at the local auto show. Surprised me at how much of a struggle getting out of it; and I used to easily slid into and out of an Austin Healey Sprite years ago.
Quote from: shp4man on February 07, 2020, 08:20:39 AM
What kind of mileage do you get?
Dunno exactly, but it's very good.
WAKE!
https://youtu.be/CAwMthGuaKI
Quote from: CaminoRacer on February 07, 2020, 08:07:10 AM
+1
A Mustang would be easier to get in and out of than a Miata (I think)
-1. Much heavier doors. Everything is worse than a Miata (visibility, economy, handling, build quality, reliability, resale value, ease in city, etc). There isn't a single reason to get a Mustang over a Miata, except maybe to carry that extra duffel bag or groceries.
Serious answer though, at that price range, a Chevy Volt, the previous gens are running about that price range, and since you work at a dealer, if there's a charging station there, it makes even more sense. Without charging, you're still looking at 38-42 mpg although the droning of the generator engine might get annoying.
Quote from: CaminoRacer on February 07, 2020, 08:07:10 AM
+1
A Mustang would be easier to get in and out of than a Miata (I think)
Not of you put the Miata on 33s.
Quote from: Rockraven on February 07, 2020, 08:36:04 AM
-1. Much heavier doors. Everything is worse than a Miata (visibility, economy, handling, build quality, reliability, resale value, ease in city, etc). There isn't a single reason to get a Mustang over a Miata, except maybe to carry that extra duffel bag or groceries.
Agree that the Mustang isn't much easier to get in or out of. Seating is a little higher, but the doors are much longer, making it a tighter squeeze in crowded parking lots.
In terms of practical luggage capacity, it's no contest. Mustang has triple the trunk space, and it's useable space by virtue of a large trunk opening (unlike Camaro). I've loaded my mountain bike into my trunk without having to fold the rear seatbacks down. And then there's the rear seat area, which isn't particularly useful for carrying people but does offer a nice parcel shelf for additional luggage.
If you want relative comfort with ease of getting in and out of as well as usable back seats and useful cargo space, check out an Escape. The little turbo 4 gets decent mileage. In reality, it's just a taller more sensibly shaped car.
Quote from: MX793 on February 07, 2020, 09:03:14 AM
Agree that the Mustang isn't much easier to get in or out of. Seating is a little higher, but the doors are much longer, making it a tighter squeeze in crowded parking lots.
In terms of practical luggage capacity, it's no contest. Mustang has triple the trunk space, and it's useable space by virtue of a large trunk opening (unlike Camaro). I've loaded my mountain bike into my trunk without having to fold the rear seatbacks down. And then there's the rear seat area, which isn't particularly useful for carrying people but does offer a nice parcel shelf for additional luggage.
You bring up a valid point. If he needs to occasionally bring the grandkids anywhere, and they need a child seat, the Mustang would be a better option for him.
Practicality is starting to rear it's ugly head. I'm liking that Mazda 6. Nice looking car, and that red shines and glitters in the sun. ;)
(https://cnet2.cbsistatic.com/img/fzuqIIrtGrHTaXcprMQam8pSXQw=/980x551/2018/05/25/2b318e17-11b5-46aa-90e3-083be2ad8fc0/2018-mazda619.jpg)
I asked a salesman that works here if they still had the Mazda 3 I smogged about two weeks ago. He said ya, then he brought this:
(https://pictures.dealer.com/p/perrypowayfordfd/1568/3c32b12907f018f5ca8e8239ecef29efx.jpg)
I said, dude, that's not a .....oh, well :lol: It's a fully loaded 2011 with 61K on it. Is that hardtop OEM? I can easily get in and out of it.
The Mazda Soul Red I find one of the best mainstreamer brand colors out there. It's fantastic. I almost bought a Mazda 6 in Soul Red instead of my Crosstrek. At the time I was looking they offered it with a manual transmission.
Quote from: shp4man on February 07, 2020, 11:42:12 AM
I asked a salesman that works here if they still had the Mazda 3 I smogged about two weeks ago. He said ya, then he brought this:
(https://pictures.dealer.com/p/perrypowayfordfd/1568/3c32b12907f018f5ca8e8239ecef29efx.jpg)
I said, dude, that's not a .....oh, well :lol: It's a fully loaded 2011 with 61K on it. Is that hardtop OEM? I can easily get in and out of it.
Well, that's the one then. :ohyeah:
Quote from: shp4man on February 07, 2020, 11:42:12 AM
I asked a salesman that works here if they still had the Mazda 3 I smogged about two weeks ago. He said ya, then he brought this:
(https://pictures.dealer.com/p/perrypowayfordfd/1568/3c32b12907f018f5ca8e8239ecef29efx.jpg)
I said, dude, that's not a .....oh, well :lol: It's a fully loaded 2011 with 61K on it. Is that hardtop OEM? I can easily get in and out of it.
Do it. This is the power hardtop one, and the best looking of the NCs, IMO. Join our exclusive club.
The thing is, I could actually do this. :praise: It's unfortunately an automatic. But that wouldn't be so bad in stop and go traffic. The thing has every option available, paddle shifters, auto A/C....it's clean as hell, the leather on the wheel shows no wear at all.
See if you can swing an ND, but hell yeah you should look no further than a Miata
Quote from: shp4man on February 07, 2020, 11:42:12 AM
I asked a salesman that works here if they still had the Mazda 3 I smogged about two weeks ago. He said ya, then he brought this:
(https://pictures.dealer.com/p/perrypowayfordfd/1568/3c32b12907f018f5ca8e8239ecef29efx.jpg)
I said, dude, that's not a .....oh, well :lol: It's a fully loaded 2011 with 61K on it. Is that hardtop OEM? I can easily get in and out of it.
The cluelessness of salesmen is astounding to me sometimes.
You should try to drive one before making a decision. Then you'll know for sure if the seating position works out for you. It'd be a fun test drive regardless. :lol:
I would prefer one with a manual, but I suspect a Miata with an auto is still more fun than 99.9% of other cars on the road.
$500 under KBB "fair purchase price". This may be a deal. Some small chips in the paint on the nose. Car looks like it's been garaged. I'm driving it around more over lunch. Just compared to the Focus, it corners like it's on rails. Ride quality isn't too bad, though.
Quote from: shp4man on February 07, 2020, 12:32:18 PM
$500 under KBB "fair purchase price". This may be a deal. Some small chips in the paint on the nose. Car looks like it's been garaged. I'm driving it around more over lunch. Just compared to the Focus, it corners like it's on rails. Ride quality isn't too bad, though.
The aftermarket is enormous, and you have the technical ability to wrench it until it's perfect.
The power retracting hard top is an OEM feature.
Sitting in the Miata now eating my lunch and listening to the radio. No salesman, thank God.
Folded the top down. Reminds me of those old Ford Sunliners from the '50s.
Quote from: shp4man on February 07, 2020, 01:36:19 PM
Sitting in the Miata now eating my lunch and listening to the radio. No salesman, thank God.
Folded the top down. Reminds me of those old Ford Sunliners from the '50s.
It should also remind you of a Chrysler LeBaron .... :lol:
dooooooooooooooooooooo it. :)
(https://media.ed.edmunds-media.com/chrysler/le-baron/1991/oem/1991_chrysler_le-baron_convertible_gtc_fq_oem_1_500.jpg)
I think it's a nice looking car. Maybe minimize that sorry looking front plate and satin black the wheels.
(https://i.postimg.cc/hvxV5cZ3/image.jpg)
I just don't bother with the front plate. The front fascia is so small that a license plate ruins the look. Haven't had a ticket yet (knocks on wood)
Quote from: shp4man on February 07, 2020, 08:05:28 PM
I think it's a nice looking car. Maybe minimize that sorry looking front plate and satin black the wheels.
(https://i.postimg.cc/hvxV5cZ3/image.jpg)
Are you buying it? Don't blacken the wheels, they're nice as is.
Quote from: Rockraven on February 07, 2020, 09:03:57 PM
Are you buying it? Don't blacken the wheels, they're nice as is.
Need the payout from the dead Focus to put down. I also have to talk the wife into it. She just doesn't get it. Fun? With a car? What's that? ;)
Can you find a manual one?
Quote from: CALL_911 on February 07, 2020, 09:47:58 PM
Can you find a manual one?
Maybe. Haven't looked much because I was working.
Autotragic might go down better with the waifu.
Quote from: Rockraven on February 07, 2020, 09:03:57 PM
Are you buying it? Don't blacken the wheels, they're nice as is.
Yeah, don't blacken the wheels. Put steelies on it. :lol:
Quote from: shp4man on February 07, 2020, 09:08:16 PM
Need the payout from the dead Focus to put down. I also have to talk the wife into it. She just doesn't get it. Fun? With a car? What's that? ;)
Put the top down and take her for a ride in the country. However, I know what you mean.
Prius V.
Quote from: Eye of the Tiger on February 08, 2020, 07:33:41 AM
+ http://www.droptopcustoms.com
Man, the Challenger convertible is awesome. :wub:
Quote from: Eye of the Tiger on February 08, 2020, 07:02:51 AM
Yeah, don't blacken the wheels. Put steelies on it. :lol:
Seriously, silver steelies look great on small roadsters. Gives them a '60s vibe.
Quote from: Rockraven on February 08, 2020, 07:37:01 AM
Man, the Challenger convertible is awesome. :wub:
I'm kind of surprised Dodge never offered a drop-top. Then again, once all the extra chassis bracing is added to make up for the lack of a roof, it would probably weigh as much as a RAM 1500.
Quote from: Rockraven on February 08, 2020, 07:37:01 AM
Man, the Challenger convertible is awesome. :wub:
Imagine what they could do with a Prius V!
What about a Murano convertible?
The whole Miatas are gay thing is amusing to me. I've heard that at least 5 times so far from various individuals.
How can a car be gay?
My standard response is "Gay? Huh, that's not what your sister said". :lol:
You said you have 2hr/day horrendous commutes. Yes I know they're wonderful but Miatas, even autos, do not spring to mind as suited for sitting in stationary traffic. As a cheap commuter appliance the Prius is perfect: comfortable, great A/C, super reliable, and built for crawling from stoplight to stoplight.
Between the two extremes: somewhat fun, plus a viable rush hour proposition, I'd say the Mazda 6.
With an AT and perpetually nice weather, I think a Miata would be peachy in traffic.
Quote from: shp4man on February 08, 2020, 08:29:25 AM
The whole Miatas are gay thing is amusing to me. I've heard that at least 5 times so far from various individuals.
How can a car be gay?
My standard response is "Gay? Huh, that's not what your sister said". :lol:
Miatas aren't gay, but beetles are. :devil:
Quote from: Morris Minor on February 08, 2020, 11:59:40 AM
You said you have 2hr/day horrendous commutes. Yes I know they're wonderful but Miatas, even autos, do not spring to mind as suited for sitting in stationary traffic. As a cheap commuter appliance the Prius is perfect: comfortable, great A/C, super reliable, and built for crawling from stoplight to stoplight.
Between the two extremes: somewhat fun, plus a viable rush hour proposition, I'd say the Mazda 6.
If I had to drive two hours in shit traffic (which I would only do for an extraordinary amount of money), I would definitely go with an automatic. I might even consider a Prius, even though I hate how they drive.
Quote from: Eye of the Tiger on February 08, 2020, 01:20:34 PM
If I had to drive two hours in shit traffic (which I would only do for an extraordinary amount of money), I would definitely go with an automatic. I might even consider a Prius, even though I hate how they drive.
I commuted to downtown Atlanta in one for about 9 months. It was perfect for disengaged just-get-me there stuff. The only thing I changed on it was to add some decent 3M window tint.
I'm not usually a used car recon tech, but it's a fact that every used vehicle you see on a car lot or on CL is on there for a reason.
Now, if you think about a specialty vehicle like the Miata, the reasons change. The car is limited- two seats, a small trunk- it's really a toy.
This car very likely got traded for a more practical ride, or the owner got to old or lost interest, rather than some hidden engine or transmission problems.
I tried to explain that to the wife, but she's still thinking I should get a more practical car.
Quote from: shp4man on February 08, 2020, 04:12:43 PM
I'm not usually a used car recon tech, but it's a fact that every used vehicle you see on a car lot or on CL is on there for a reason.
Now, if you think about a specialty vehicle like the Miata, the reasons change. The car is limited- two seats, a small trunk- it's really a toy.
This car very likely got traded for a more practical ride, or the owner got to old or lost interest, rather than some hidden engine or transmission problems.
I tried to explain that to the wife, but she's still thinking I should get a more practical car.
Does she have a preference, small SUV, sedan, compact, another Focus?
Quote from: FoMoJo on February 08, 2020, 04:22:11 PM
Does she have a preference, small SUV, sedan, compact, another Focus?
She has her own car- a 17 Fusion. In her mind, another soulless appliance is best, even though it's my damn car.
I'd just like to add that I'm sorry about the loss of your car. That it was destroyed by a drunken clown must certainly make the situation more traumatic. Clowns give me the creeps.
Quote from: shp4man on February 08, 2020, 04:59:50 PM
She has her own car- a 17 Fusion. In her mind, another soulless appliance is best, even though it's my damn car.
There must be some compromise. Will the settlement from the Focus be more than the cost of the Miata?
Quote from: MX793 on February 08, 2020, 05:13:47 PM
I'd just like to add that I'm sorry about the loss of your car. That it was destroyed by a drunken clown must certainly make the situation more traumatic. Clowns give me the creeps.
#metoo
Quote from: shp4man on February 08, 2020, 04:59:50 PM
She has her own car- a 17 Fusion. In her mind, another soulless appliance is best, even though it's my damn car.
The Miata crowd is pretty social. You could autocross, or do group rides...
Quote from: Laconian on February 08, 2020, 06:40:52 PM
The Miata crowd is pretty social. You could autocross, or do group rides...
This. Most of the participants are in the more mature age range. A weekend drive to somewhere interesting.
****************** ***************************
To anyone who EVER thinks Miatas are "gay"- ask them if they have ever gone go-karting. Ask if they enjoyed it. If so, tell them it's a street-legal go-kart. DONE.
:rockon:
Quote from: FoMoJo on February 08, 2020, 05:18:07 PM
There must be some compromise. Will the settlement from the Focus be more than the cost of the Miata?
I'll have to add about $5K.
Quote from: shp4man on February 07, 2020, 08:25:36 AM
Mitsubishi has a somewhat less than stellar reputation here. I would opt for that over some other brands, though.
I know, but it's cheap and fuel-efficient. ;)
Quote from: shp4man on February 08, 2020, 10:42:28 PM
I'll have to add about $5K.
Maybe in order to retain bliss at home and still have a little zoom-zoom in your life, perhaps Mazda 3 is the answer. :huh:
I'd choose the hatch.
Quote from: FoMoJo on February 09, 2020, 12:30:40 PM
Maybe in order to retain bliss at home and still have a little zoom-zoom in your life, perhaps Mazda 3 is the answer. :huh:
I'd choose the hatch.
boothisman.gif
Quote from: SJ_GTI on February 09, 2020, 12:42:03 PM
boothisman.gif
(https://i.postimg.cc/2SPVQFV3/mathie-2151029b.jpg)
Get a 68 Camaro.
Quote from: dazzleman on February 09, 2020, 06:41:45 PM
Get a 68 Camaro.
LOL.
I put the little car up on the lift this morning. It's box stock except for the rear shocks, absolutely no fluid leaks or evidence of body repairs. It has an interesting 4 link rear suspension with independent rears, I just realized it doesn't have a spare tire. :muffin:
Still has the factory kit with the air compressor and sealing fluid.
Runs 0-20W oil and a Ford FL910S oil filter. The glass on the passenger side fog light is cracked. Thats it. That's all I can find. Now, if the insurance company would cut a check for the murdered Focus.... ;)
Hold out for a manual!
But NC Miatas are great. I still miss mine sometimes. NDs are better, but probably not worth the price premium.
ND's definitely aren't in the price range yet.
NCs are a more cushy, which might be the right compromise for Shippy.
Still waiting for something from the insurance company. Days? Weeks? Then, the lowball offer and the argument.....what a PIA. The rental car place didn't have any economy cars left, they put me in a new Cherokee for the same price. :lol:
The check for the Focus is a little over $9K. I can almost see that Miata in my driveway. They haven't sold it yet. Gotta do a deal. Telling the sales guy tomorrow. Wife is pushing for a Mazda 3. Second choice if the Miata deal falls through. Oh, ya! :ohyeah:
See the PRND+M indicator on the tach? Slush box.. ;)
(https://i.postimg.cc/wvXwp2P2/image.jpg)
(https://i.postimg.cc/BZCm7h2Q/image.jpg)
If you want it, go for it! Both the Mazda 3 and Miata are nice cars.
Quote from: 2o6 on February 13, 2020, 09:25:20 PM
If you want it, go for it! Both the Mazda 3 and Miata are nice cars.
Thanks, man.
In high school, one of my best buds bought a well used 1962 Austin Healey 3000 from a college professor. Price in 1969? $300. Yep...$300. Anyway, my car was a 1951 Chevy sedan. Old even then. Non-syncro 1st gear, slow ass 216CID 6 banger, and worst of all, cornered like a fucking loaded turnip truck.
So one day I asked my bud if I could drive the Healy.
OMFG, the thing was amazing. Four gears and a dash switch that changed the rear axle ratio. Three carbs. Low, low to the ground. Very unique exhaust note. British charm, leather seats. Convertible top. Cornered like it was on fucking rails. So different than my Chevy.
That's why I want the Miata, because of that Healy. I could never afford an actual Austin Healey, much less drive it to work every day.
But i can get that Miata. :ohyeah:
Good luck man. :ohyeah:
Quote from: shp4man on February 13, 2020, 09:29:36 PM
Thanks, man.
In high school, one of my best buds bought a well used 1962 Austin Healey 3000 from a college professor. Price in 1969? $300. Yep...$300. Anyway, my car was a 1951 Chevy sedan. Old even then. Non-syncro 1st gear, slow ass 216CID 6 banger, and worst of all, cornered like a fucking loaded turnip truck.
So one day I asked my bud if I could drive the Healy.
OMFG, the thing was amazing. Four gears and a dash switch that changed the rear axle ratio. Three carbs. Low, low to the ground. Very unique exhaust note. British charm, leather seats. Convertible top. Cornered like it was on fucking rails. So different than my Chevy.
That's why I want the Miata, because of that Healy. I could never afford an actual Austin Healey, much less drive it to work every day.
But i can get that Miata. :ohyeah:
Treat yourself, the wife will get over it.
Yeah, seriously get the Miata, you're better off enjoying life while you can.
Miata is now my car. :ohyeah:
Quote from: shp4man on February 14, 2020, 01:33:52 PM
Miata is now my car. :ohyeah:
Congratulations. :ohyeah:
Wife still speaking to you? :devil:
Quote from: FoMoJo on February 14, 2020, 01:35:51 PM
Congratulations. :ohyeah:
Wife still speaking to you? :devil:
Hasn't texted me back yet.
Quote from: shp4man on February 14, 2020, 01:42:42 PM
Hasn't texted me back yet.
Of she answers "OK," buy flowers.
The finance guy ran a Carfax on it. It was well maintained at the Mazda dealer and never had any warranty repairs. Nice.
Quote from: Soup DeVille on February 14, 2020, 01:46:33 PM
Of she answers "OK," buy flowers.
And if she answers "k," better throw some chocolates in there, too. Maybe a cute little stuffed animal, too.
Miata = new wife
I was able to pair my phone with the Miata's sound system. I was concerned it might not work, but it did. :ohyeah: You do have to talk to it more than a new car, though.
(https://www.dmv.ca.gov/imageserver/dmv/images/legacy_plates/1960_banner.JPG)
Thinking about a black plate. AN11NC? :lol:
Nice! Great Valentine's present, it's even red.
Congrats!!! I'll bet if you take some nice top-down drives together she'll be sold. We popped on top of a parking garage while the sun was setting one evening. :-)
Congrats!
Congrats!
I don't think I could persuade my wife to go back to driving a manual. She did so for 10 years in the UK - in crazy London traffic, but now she's used to the cushy luxury of autos.
Keep us posted Shippy. Pics and details of all the mods you're going to make.
Also pics of the lovely flowers and chocolates and teddy bears that are going to change her opinion.
Quote from: Eye of the Tiger on February 14, 2020, 02:25:50 PM
Miata = new wife
Marriage with MrsShippy ended
Miata is my new wife
Don't need wife. Miata = Chick magnate.
Quote from: FoMoJo on February 15, 2020, 07:37:42 AM
Don't need wife. Miata = Chick magnate.
Don't need chicks. Miata = one true love.
Wifey is slowly warming up to Miata. It is after all a unique and attractive vehicle. Plus, I think she likes the color. Copper Red Mica. ;)
Quote from: shp4man on February 15, 2020, 11:12:20 AM
Wifey is slowly warming up to Miata. It is after all a unique and attractive vehicle. Plus, I think she likes the color. Copper Red Mica. ;)
Better be careful. She'll take it you'll end up driving the Fusion.
Congrats! NC's are excellent cars and even the autos are lots of fun. A friend of mine has one that looks just like that and he's considering selling and if he does, it'll be my wife's next car.
Congrats! Awesome choice, and welcome to the club. :cheers:
Thanks. :ohyeah: The more I drive it, the more Iike it.
Quote from: shp4man on February 16, 2020, 05:58:22 PM
Thanks. :ohyeah: The more I drive it, the more Iike it.
If you mod anything, get some suspension bits. Car can ride even more on rails. :thumbsup:
The 2.0L engine features a 10.8/1 compression ratio. Premium gas is faster. Zoom Zoom indeed.
Wait. So you ran into your own car?
Quote from: AutobahnSHO on February 16, 2020, 06:01:15 PM
If you mod anything, get some suspension bits. Car can ride even more on rails. :thumbsup:
Nah man, it might improve track handling at 9/10ths, but you take away the everyday fun handling on the road. I've yet to see a modified Miata that's "better".
Quote from: Rockraven on February 17, 2020, 09:13:07 AM
Nah man, it might improve track handling at 9/10ths, but you take away the everyday fun handling on the road. I've yet to see a modified Miata that's "better".
Maybe it's difference between NA and NB, but I doubt it-
My NA was stock, Rich on the NB put a strut tower brace up front and a few other little braces under the rear and it is night and day how much it does NOT roll. Can totally push it harder in corners than my NA.
Quote from: AutobahnSHO on February 17, 2020, 10:26:08 AM
Maybe it's difference between NA and NB, but I doubt it-
My NA was stock, Rich on the NB put a strut tower brace up front and a few other little braces under the rear and it is night and day how much it does NOT roll. Can totally push it harder in corners than my NA.
I like the roll. Taking corners at legal speeds in my NA is fun. If it gripped like a Corvette in corners, I feel that a lot of the fun would be lost.
Quote from: Rockraven on February 17, 2020, 10:33:23 AM
I like the roll. Taking corners at legal speeds in my NA is fun. If it gripped like a Corvette in corners, I feel that a lot of the fun would be lost.
Scrappy is like a go-kart. Planted and you just feel the lateral Gs.
Quote from: Rockraven on February 17, 2020, 10:33:23 AM
I like the roll. Taking corners at legal speeds in my NA is fun. If it gripped like a Corvette in corners, I feel that a lot of the fun would be lost.
They roll because Dan Gurney, who Mazda used as a consultant on the project, wanted them to roll- partially because he wanted the car to handle well on a variety of surfaces and not just flat perfect roads.
But also partially because he was a little weird.
OK, so today is the first day for the commute. It's 33 miles one way, almost all freeway. This little car has quick steering and a firm ride, both are positive attributes to me.
California traffic can be stop/go/fast/slow...like 85 to stopped, then crawling along at 10 MPH for miles. I'm glad the car's an automatic, not as sporty, but better in traffic.
It has the Bose sound system, I like that. Plenty of bass response. Plus it paired with my phone OK.
It is puzzling to me that the car has auto climate control and heated seats, but manual lights and no intermittent wipers. I don't care, but still, it's unusual.
The seat, which is the source of some comments online, is perfectly comfortable to me.
The automatic trans is programmed to downshift with braking- a nice touch.
Plus I love those orange dash lights- very nice.
MPG counter got up to 26.4 so far, it'll go higher, I'm thinking,
Quote from: shp4man on February 17, 2020, 02:03:48 PM
MPG counter got up to 26.4 so far, it'll go higher, I'm thinking,
My NA got 28mpgeez, but it was mostly 45mph flat road with a few lights and no stop and go.
Scrappy gets in the 20-22range :mask: because I lead foot and there are a lot of hills right around us....
Quote from: AutobahnSHO on February 17, 2020, 03:02:24 PM
My NA got 28mpgeez, but it was mostly 45mph flat road with a few lights and no stop and go.
Scrappy gets in the 20-22range :mask: because I lead foot and there are a lot of hills right around us....
Scrappy might need a tube up. 3400 lb Dakota gets 20+ MPG all day long, and it requires frequent WOT.
Quote from: Eye of the Tiger on February 17, 2020, 04:46:49 PM
Scrappy might need a tube up. 3400 lb Dakota gets 20+ MPG all day long, and it requires frequent WOT.
Frequent =/ all the time.... :mask:
Congratulations!!
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=FVbqxJUcW_s
My ND gets 33. My NA got like 27.
Quote from: veeman on February 17, 2020, 09:26:20 PM
Congratulations!!
I'm pretty sure NB has one setting of intermittent, then slow and fast.
Man there's a crapload of Miata related stuff online. How to videos/reviews of mods/road tests. You could spend days checking it all out.
(https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/shopping?q=tbn:ANd9GcTNxmqYZbi-32ERv-fvobx9hfGJHgErpU1aaO7XAdQCpRckVQBTDKOeobDUQDggVAB8yyrsyGasTrGKQYB8OH_vlu6tSOQrBI0IegX_uOF45XU1bQEXeAKvjg&usqp=CAE)
:lol: :muffin:
https://youtu.be/AEMd4VVJVus
It's a great little car. Everybody wonders why I didn't buy a big Buick. The Buick is comfortable, but boring. The MX-5 keeps us old fogeys awake.
The other day, I was entering the freeway on a cloverleaf, posted at 20 mph. I had just passed a 90s Firebird, heavily modified, enthusiast owned. He made the mistake of trying to take a Miata in a curve, and actually spun out.
Moral of the story? Think twice before trying a Miata in a curve.
Quote from: shp4man on April 19, 2020, 07:27:06 PM
It's a great little car. Everybody wonders why I didn't buy a big Buick. The Buick is comfortable, but boring. The MX-5 keeps us old fogeys awake.
The other day, I was entering the freeway on a cloverleaf, posted at 20 mph. I had just passed a 90s Firebird, heavily modified, enthusiast owned. He made the mistake of trying to take a Miata in a curve, and actually spun out.
Moral of the story? Think twice before trying a Miata in a curve.
Especially in a Firebird. :lol:
Quote from: shp4man on April 19, 2020, 07:27:06 PM
It's a great little car. Everybody wonders why I didn't buy a big Buick. The Buick is comfortable, but boring. The MX-5 keeps us old fogeys awake.
The other day, I was entering the freeway on a cloverleaf, posted at 20 mph. I had just passed a 90s Firebird, heavily modified, enthusiast owned. He made the mistake of trying to take a Miata in a curve, and actually spun out.
Moral of the story? Think twice before trying a Miata in a curve.
Eek!
Last spring (pre-Miata) I was coming back home a different route than normal and was in Impreza rather than minivan and I had a sweet interstate cloverleaf with no one in front of me (unusual). I took it as fast as I can without screeching the tires but some Maserati caught up to me and stayed on my rear bumper 3/4 of it.
I really want to try that one in Miata. :lol:
If I remember right Jason Fenske said he's going to supercharge his new toy.
Quote from: Morris Minor on April 20, 2020, 07:37:59 AM
If I remember right Jason Fenske said he's going to supercharge his new toy.
Edelbrock sells superchargers for ND Miatas and I want one. Modern day Cobra?
Quote from: CaminoRacer on April 20, 2020, 09:56:32 AM
Edelbrock sells superchargers for ND Miatas and I want one. Modern day Cobra?
Quote from: Morris Minor on April 20, 2020, 07:37:59 AM
If I remember right Jason Fenske said he's going to supercharge his new toy.
That video Morris linked said that's what he's going to do. And has silly whiteboard math showing that MX-5 has more power per lb. of weight than S2000 (as long as you're not revving the S2000 above 6000ish RPMs). Also interesting the "narrower" tires on the MX-5 compare favorably to cars with tires twice the width because they also weigh 60% more than the MX-5.
Plus as wife and I have been talking about upcoming life this year, MX-5 is one of the few cars I can "safely" town with the minivan. (We'll be moving 3 cars by ourselves LOL).
Quote from: CaminoRacer on April 20, 2020, 09:56:32 AM
Edelbrock sells superchargers for ND Miatas and I want one. Modern day Cobra?
NO!
haha. LS Miata swaps have always been popular. So yeah, do that:
(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/96/f1/3a/96f13aa33f586bbcbc5453834fe7488d.jpg)
(https://www.flyinmiata.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/1800x/040ec09b1e35df139433887a97daa66f/i/m/img_2295.jpg)
(https://www.speednik.com/wp-content/blogs.dir/1/files/2016/08/2016-08-08_04-38-26.jpg)
Quote from: CaminoRacer on April 20, 2020, 09:56:32 AM
Edelbrock sells superchargers for ND Miatas and I want one. Modern day Cobra?
My buddy's S/C NA is a beast. Roughly 2.5x the power it made when stock.
Ford 302s used to be the default big motor swap for NAs.
Quote from: Laconian on April 20, 2020, 08:21:08 PM
Ford 302s used to be the default big motor swap for NAs.
My hunch why the small block Ford had a rare win over the small block Chevy (SBC) for engine swaps ;):
1.) The FI Ford 302/5 speed was a common junkyard find (wrecked Fox body/SN95 Mustangs) for many years. Over that same time period Chevy never, ever built the FI 350/5 speed combo. Yes, Chevy did build a FI 305/5 speed in the Camaro/Firebird to compete with the Fox body, but in far less numbers, and the 305 was not good.
2.) The Ford small block (SBF) has a front-mount distributor (most other small blocks are rear-mount, including the SBC) which sure looks much friendlier for the tight fit under the cowl of a Miata, so with the SBF you're not tearing up the cowl or moving the motor forward in the chassis.
3.) The 302 is a bit more compact and lighter than the SBC (esp. width, as the valve train sat a bit more upright). The SBC Chevy was to eventually accommodate 400 cubic inches, and the SBF topped out at 351, and 302 was plenty for such a small car.
As the years rolled on, people started wrecking the 4th gen ('93+) Camaros/Firebirds and late C4 Corvettes ('92+), in which the LT(LS) 6-speed combos were a dime a dozen. Not long after Ford axed the SBF for the Modular ('96 for the Mustang), and then Chevy put the LS into the trucks and SUVs in '99, and well, the history of LT/LS dominance in the swap world was cemented. Of course it helps that the LT/LS is the same size as the SBC, is ~150 lbs lighter, and does not have a distributor.
(https://engineswapdepot.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Miata-I4-engine-vs-LS3-V8-size-comparison-01-1024x567.jpg)
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Projects/JoeD-2010-AIMustang/i-NhXPFzJ/0/L/LS-vs-Coyote-002-L.jpg)
Yes, the 302 Windsor was smaller than every generation of SBC, the only common V8 smaller is the Buick/Rover V8.
I still say they're better than the GM 5 liter OHV engines (with the exception of the hard to find Chevy 302).
Preservation of front/rear weight ratio would make a turbocharged 4 banger the better choice, I would think.
Quote from: shp4man on April 21, 2020, 08:46:36 AM
Preservation of front/rear weight ratio would make a turbocharged 4 banger the better choice, I would think.
Not sure about NC or ND, but NA and NB Miatas had iron block motors that are not much, if any, lighter than an aluminum Windsor or SBC.
Quote from: Soup DeVille on April 21, 2020, 05:53:54 AM
Yes, the 302 Windsor was smaller than every generation of SBC, the only common V8 smaller is the Buick/Rover V8.
I still say they're better than the GM 5 liter OHV engines (with the exception of the hard to find Chevy 302).
Something else GM rejected. Highly modified versions of the GM/Rover engine was used by REPCO/Brabham in a number of racing series, include F!, where it won a championship title for Jack Brabham in 1966(?).
Quote from: MX793 on April 21, 2020, 08:54:05 AM
Not sure about NC or ND, but NA and NB Miatas had iron block motors that are not much, if any, lighter than an aluminum Windsor or SBC.
NC stock motor is the same as a Ford Duratech, same motor as in Fusions. A common swap in NC is replacing the 2.0 with a 2.5L Fusion motor- it's basically a bolt in with a few mods.
Quote from: MX793 on April 21, 2020, 08:54:05 AM
Not sure about NC or ND, but NA and NB Miatas had iron block motors that are not much, if any, lighter than an aluminum Windsor or SBC.
An aluminum block engine swap would probably cost twice as much as a turbo/supercharger kit.
Quote from: shp4man on April 21, 2020, 09:02:31 AM
NC stock motor is the same as a Ford Duratech, same motor as in Fusions. A common swap in NC is replacing the 2.0 with a 2.5L Fusion motor- it's basically a bolt in with a few mods.
Would the Focus ST or RS motor fit just as well. Be a lot more fun that some bland overweight V8.
Quote from: CaminoRacer on April 21, 2020, 09:27:15 AM
An aluminum block engine swap would probably cost twice as much as a turbo/supercharger kit.
Likely have to switch out the internals to make it half-way reliable.
Quote from: FoMoJo on April 21, 2020, 10:06:36 AM
Would the Focus ST or RS motor fit just as well. Be a lot more fun that some bland overweight V8.
I always thought the 2.3L Ecoboost would be the best, but 310HP may destroy the stock Miata drivetrain. Eventually.
Quote from: shp4man on April 21, 2020, 10:10:16 AM
I always thought the 2.3L Ecoboost EcoBeast would be the best, but 310HP may destroy the stock Miata drivetrain. Eventually.
True, the ST version would be a compromise.