I'm looking into getting rid of my SUV to get a sportier and more fuel efficient car. I've always loved the Miata but I never looked to much into them. So I'd like to get some input from the people who know them the best, the owner and enthusiasts:
What year and package do you think is the best?
I'm looking for good gas milage and good power. Oh and I'm not looking to spend much more than $5-6 grand. I know that limits me quite abit. I'd also like to hear why newer, more expensive years are better but focus on the $5-6k range.
When you reply make sure you let me know why you think that option is the best.
Thanks

 

I understand where you are coming from. My daily vehicle WAS my 2003 GMC Envoy Denali. An awesome truck/suv to be sure but it was just transporting me and my backpack to and from work and jobsites. With gas going through the roof and not wanting to spend a load of money, I bought a 1990 Miata for $1500 - and kept my truck. The truck is covered and parked and I use it for camping, longer drives and situations where I need to take more than one person and one duffle bag with me. That is the one drawback to the Miata vs. SUV... the obviousness of the Miata being unable to carry much stuff. That said, I would advise to do what I did... find an early year in good condition. Do your homework and check the vin. These are great little cars, but in my search I found more than a few that had been badly beaten and abused... only to be masked by paint.

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found a '96m, with hardtop, nardi, 90 day bumer 2 bumper, and 38K miles for $7500 in dec '06. new soft top and clutch.this was $250 over blue book at the time. i'm getting 27-8 mpg if i drive it like a granny, 24-5 if i hammer it around town.
it only puts a little over 100hp to the back wheels, so it's not a rocket. but it is a street legal go-kart and always makes me feel better anytime i drive it.
this is my "work" car. i'm 6' tall with a 32" inseam and have little problem getting in or out.

i love mine.

 

It depends what your looking for I have a 1999 NB (or second generation as it is called) if your looking to go FI from what I understand99-00 was the lasts year before Mazda went to the VVT Its easier to upgrade the pre VVT cars. I installed a Garrett T-25 turbo on mine, emanage, mazda 323 injectors, spec. clutchand 2.5 ssexhaust BIG difference over stock power also I get 32mpg highway.,

 

go for a '99 only cause that is the only one i know anything about sorry! [&:]

 

Hey Slacker,

I myself have a 2003 Miata, with Aftermarket Bomex Body kit. I have lightweight rims and 215/40/16 Rubber, I also have a complete Racing Beat Exhaust system header to muffler. Cold air Intake, I also have a complete turbo kit sitting in my Garage waiting for winter to come to install it. I am a pretty big guy myself, but don't really have problems getting in or out.. Love the style of it.