Hello, new to this forum, but long time Mazda lover and Solo2 participant. I am now looking to buy an NB Miata, and need to know things to look out for, best/worst years, etc. While I have been autocrossing since 1993, I will not be racing this car. The Torsen isn't a must, but a manual trans is. It is strictly for pleasure and road trips. I know it's hard to find any NA/NB's that haven't been "riced or raced," but I am not in any hurry. Thanks in advance for any advice.

 

curious why you are focused on NB?

 

Since a new ND is out of my pay grade, and the NC body style never really grew on me. I know the NA pop-up headlights can be troublesome, and I am not interested in a 1.6L. I just always thought the "sweet spot" for the Miata was mk2 because they were still light, but the 1.8L got some more ponies. Believe me, if an ND was in the budget it'd be in my driveway already.

 

You got me curious about what is available within 100 miles of me:

Used Mazda MX-5 Miata for Sale in Marco Island, FL 34145 - Autotrader

 

I found a 1999 in San Diego, 67K miles, and completely unmodded, which is what I am looking for. It's hard to find one that hasn't been "riced or raced." Emerald Green Mica with tan leather and tan top. An older guy bought it new for his wife and she never really liked it. Garaged it's whole life, and super clean. But $5K. Too much, or not? The websites all show a lower bluebook value, but given how many are beat up these days, I'm thinking the websites aren't really reflective of this market.

 

$5G seems pretty good based on the list I posted for you. Green is not a popular color anymore, but back then it made a statement compared to the British cars.

 

Exactly, the old BRG comparison.