Miata Mx5

95dman · 04-25-2006, 01:07 PM

Hey guys,

I am seeking input from anyone who knows about Miatas. I ve done a good bit of research and I am shopping around for a 99-02 MX5. Anyone had any experience with these or heard from a friend of a friend who knows someone....., etc.

MPG is 27-30 and seems like a good bit of fun.

BobTucker · 04-26-2006, 01:34 AM

Hi,

I had one (Miata in the U.S.) when I lived in the U.S. It was wonderful. The folks at Mazda have carefully engineered it for its ride. The ride is exceptional. Mine was incredibly reliable; and the fit and finish were excellent. The engine is very similar to that in your Sportage. It is a slightly smaller FE DOHC engine than that in the Sportage and it works very well. The newest models have a slightly larger engine, loads of improvised features, and only minimally more weight than the version I had. They are, from all reports, even better than the older versions. I enjoyed mine so much that I found that hard to believe until I read several reviews and blogs that appear to confirm it.

Kindest Regards,

Bob Tucker

95dman · 04-26-2006, 10:13 AM

Thank you for your response Mr. Tucker.

I test drove one for first time last night. It was a 2000 and it was VERY satisfying! I will continue to seek out a good deal on a Miata that I am pleased with. This one had some visible signs of collision repair. As I understand it, that is not uncommon as they encourage spirited driving and not the death nell if the work is done properly and the undercarriage is straight. However, I will seek an uninsulted MX5.

My only hesitancy with the car is the lack of visibility. That is by design and one would suppose it takes some getting used to....espesiallly after driving the relatively tall, big windowed Sportage for so long. This Miata would be for occasional juants across the state to visit relatives and trips to work when the weather is nice.

Thanks again for your commenting.

Darin

BobTucker · 04-26-2006, 08:06 PM

Hi Darin,

I am afraid you are right about the frequency of body damage on Miatas. Although Miatas are certainly not over-powered, they are very very fun to drive. And most people drive them to the limit. I now drive a Sportage. I don't think an MX-5 would be too happy bouncing about a rice paddy here in Thailand. But the Sportage does this flawlessly and without complaint.

Kindest Regards,

Bob Tucker