| I originally bought the used Miata so that I can drive a manual shift vehicle. A minivan is comfortable, but it is not a driver's car! Anyway, I had one week to shop for a used car, and the little black-on-black Miata found me. When it found me, it already had most of the features. The previous owner took it to autocross and track days, but also took good care of the engine and transmission. A two-hour inspection done by my mechanic revealed no major problems, just minor critter comfort issues. For example, there is no carpeting, no wind shield wiper fluid container, no radio, those kinds of issues. There are good reasons for the lack of critter comfort. For example, the windshield wiper fluid tank is replaced by a relocated oil-filter, which in return is connected to an oil cooler in front of a 3-ply aluminum radiator. Other modifications include a 6-point roll bar, a front strut bar, custom cat-back, custom intake, lowering springs and Tokico shocks. I thought I could live without a stereo, but I was wrong. I have the stereo reinstalled, along with new speakers and a 150W powered subwoofer. Now the stereo can barely overpower the engine, road and exhaust sounds. Did I mention the engine torque “damper” is a hard link, and that the exhaust is welded to the chassis? Being a relatively superficial person (and lacking in the mechanical department), I also did some appearance modifications: Momo 300mm steering wheel, Greddy counter weight shift knob, short(er) shifter (moves the pivot point), Hella e-code headlamps and “custom” 18-wheeler-type white- red reflective stripes. Although the Miata is prepared for autocross and track events, I am a newbie to such activities. I am, however, eager to participate and learn. That is one reason to join SAMOA. As a photography hobbyist, I am also interested in scenic/fun runs and explore new places. Having the company with like minded drivers is, of course, an important factor, as well. My wife and I would love to participate in the coastal runs and extended trips, but having a relatively young family means that has to wait. |
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