1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata | Buyer's Guide

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  • Опубліковано 4 лип 2024
  • Hagerty’s Editor-at-Large Sam Smith explores what makes the 1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata such a beloved classic roadster and details what you need to know about buying, owning, and loving this great sports car.
    Feature: www.hagerty.com/media/archive...
    Buyer’s Guide: www.hagerty.com/media/buying-...
    Hagerty Valuation: www.hagerty.com/apps/valuatio...
    ---
    Episode chapters:
    0:00 Introduction - 1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata
    0:42 Driving impressions
    2:25 Shop talk
    3:50 Undercarriage inspection and buying tips
    7:18 Hagerty Valuation Tools
    8:07 Sam Smith’s final thoughts
    ---
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 274

  • @bakerXderek
    @bakerXderek 3 роки тому +199

    I got a 93 supercharged NA with 101k miles and 0 rust. Best car I’ve ever driven. Definitely a car to keep for life !

    • @Firebert79TA
      @Firebert79TA 3 роки тому +14

      Make sure to pull your front fenders off some day to make sure they're not full of leaves in the pocket behind the wheel. I was surprised by how many mine had collected.

    • @drivendreamgarage523
      @drivendreamgarage523 3 роки тому +1

      I’d really like to find a supercharger for my 91.

    • @MuneebGhori
      @MuneebGhori 3 роки тому

      i used to watch you years ago

    • @barryhill1044
      @barryhill1044 3 роки тому

      The NC 2Ltr sport is quite fast enough on British roads Who wants to go faster than 130+ MPH. However A MX5 2Ltr could go all day long around a German Autobahn flat out and not be fazed by it..

    • @chacebusness6451
      @chacebusness6451 Рік тому

      How much did it cost around to add a supercharger to the car?

  • @dragonbrownies517
    @dragonbrownies517 3 роки тому +113

    I'm glad I picked up my 1995 Miata last year for $2500. I've been watching the prices creep up exponentially.

    • @jg5001
      @jg5001 3 роки тому +4

      Even my all stock NB is seeing its value appreciate. Once I get the car repainted in its signature Emerald Mica, probably be very valuable. And I don't intend to sell it anyway.

    • @TheBishop12
      @TheBishop12 3 роки тому +2

      @@jg5001 yeah don’t! NA owners will sometimes take parts from the NB for repairs because they are basically for the most part the same car, cutting down the population/parts supply even more. You can’t really lose either way either gen.

    • @Stretches_R6
      @Stretches_R6 2 роки тому

      Yeah I bought mine this year because when I first started driving I didn’t like it as much so I looked up best cars to drive and this was my favorite bought mine for 3k needed engine pulled and done but 0 rust 104k and it’s awesome

    • @bahrid0563
      @bahrid0563 2 роки тому +3

      Ive been looking for a NA for so long but they seem to not even sell in canada

    • @brettcannon74
      @brettcannon74 Рік тому +1

      And I'm glad I bought my Volkswagen westfalia before it tripled in value 🤣 can't say that about a Miata

  • @TheMx5Channel
    @TheMx5Channel 3 роки тому +90

    Sold my NA 1990 mx5 all stock a few years ago with just over 56k miles on the clock, i now drive a NC but sometimes i wish i had the NA :)

    • @barryhill1044
      @barryhill1044 3 роки тому +1

      NC much better car, 2Ltr sport low milage one’s are worth every penny. Especially one that has been garaged from new with low milage ... most reliable vehicle ever built, They have come a very long way since the NA NB But I fully understand the enthusiasm for the earlier cars. But is more a case of OTT Nostalgia most of the time

    • @TheMx5Channel
      @TheMx5Channel 3 роки тому

      @@barryhill1044 Thats true, i bought mine NC with 90k (kms) 55k miles orso. Unfortunately i don't own a garage and the dutchweater can be very wett. But i maintain it well and it gets more service then normal because i also race sometimes. I own it now for four years and i have driven 70k's km (45k miles) and only problem i have now is the battery draining because of covid i drive maybe 40 km's per month. But thats not the cars fault :)

    • @che7wins614
      @che7wins614 3 роки тому +5

      Cant beat an NA, purists drivers car

    • @kevincherry6037
      @kevincherry6037 2 роки тому

      I bet you regret that now

    • @TheMx5Channel
      @TheMx5Channel 2 роки тому

      @@kevincherry6037 Regret not really, but sometimes i would love to drive it again. But the NC with a few good mods drives alot better and faster. The chassis can handle more in my opinion. Also day to day it's alot nice to live with. My NA had no options stock engine no lsd ect. But there is still love for the NA

  • @alexlorenlee
    @alexlorenlee 3 роки тому +76

    This video makes me so proud to own my White '91 Miata. Thank you

    • @annemccullough5560
      @annemccullough5560 3 роки тому

      It’s a Mazda mx5 there’s no such car as a miata not even in America it’s a made up name

    • @barryhill1044
      @barryhill1044 3 роки тому +2

      It’s just an American nickname ... They are MX5s. But in America ( and on the internet ) you can actually buy a Miata badge for the boot / trunk lid. Don’t ask me why,

    • @joshn.5625
      @joshn.5625 3 роки тому +1

      I have a 91 BRG. Love it.

    • @liarose9067
      @liarose9067 3 роки тому

      SAMEE

    • @mr.m325
      @mr.m325 Рік тому +1

      @@annemccullough5560 Wrong....my 91 has a "Miata" badge on the back

  • @lordthicknipples-gt2oq
    @lordthicknipples-gt2oq 10 місяців тому +7

    I bought my '92 Miata for $2000. It only had about 290,000 ish miles on the odometer and made it through a cross country road trip back home. It didn't make it much further though because I abused the hell out of it, I took it drifting on a dirt road in the mountains and it got rodknock so I headed back down the mountain because I'm not sure a tow truck could make it to where I was at the time. The engine completely exploded after I made it down the mountain and left chunks of the connecting rod in the road. RIP 1.6 engine, it had a good, long life. It's alright though because I swapped a 1.8 in it and the car still runs and drives to this day

  • @nadenolam8368
    @nadenolam8368 3 роки тому +46

    Bought a 92 NA last December for $500, did water pump, struts and all maintenance. Runs great and blast to drive.

    • @Svabby
      @Svabby 10 місяців тому +4

      500$ 😪, I wish I could get one for that price

    • @nipunaperera2387
      @nipunaperera2387 9 місяців тому +1

      This is a good deal! Congrats.

    • @mladyavery9138
      @mladyavery9138 8 місяців тому

      @@Svabby All the ones around me that are $2-$3k (my price range) don't even run 😭

  • @craiglatrell9066
    @craiglatrell9066 2 роки тому +6

    This guy is the best online reviewer I’ve ever seen. Knowledgeable, concise, and passionate.

  • @converdis449
    @converdis449 3 роки тому +8

    Great review and you nailed it when you said you drive it and then you want I drive it again. Have been fortunate enough to have owned 5 MX5’s, with a RF still in the garage that the wife drives daily .
    Great to drive, reliable, cheap to buy , drive and own. Would love a NA again ❤️

  • @Time782
    @Time782 3 роки тому +8

    I had an '89 MX-5 as a 1990 model. I bought it during my last year of high school in 1993. It was my daily driver until 2004 when I got rid of it with nearly 700,000 kms on it. It saw all four corners of North America from British Columbia to the Florida Keys. I did oil changes and put gas in it and that was it. I've owned many different cars since then and nothing compares to my NA MX-5. I've since bought an NC and it is close to what the NA provided. I just can imagine paying more for an NC now than what I did nearly thirty years ago.

  • @IGrocker
    @IGrocker 3 роки тому +12

    This guy knows his NA Miatas! I miss my ‘94 all the time.

  • @GIZZMOTORSPORTS
    @GIZZMOTORSPORTS 3 роки тому +66

    Rust is the death of the majority of these. I wouldn't mind a tired racecar that was all original rust free metal, definitely take that car over low mileage and rusty.

    • @barryhill1044
      @barryhill1044 3 роки тому +1

      Most are not rusty if they have been garaged and preserved from new My friend has the most immaculate MX5 NC 2Ltr sport.... I have ever seen, It would look right in a museum ... on a stand with floodlight on it. He is thinking of selling it

    • @GIZZMOTORSPORTS
      @GIZZMOTORSPORTS 3 роки тому +1

      @@barryhill1044 where the car is from is also a big factor. Even that well taken care of east coast daily driver will certainly have more rust than a southern California car.

    • @hamish_c7
      @hamish_c7 2 роки тому +3

      Seems to be a mostly North American issue - in Australia where we don't salt our roads rusted out MX5s are very rare.

  • @homeslice1958
    @homeslice1958 3 роки тому +3

    This video makes me so grateful that I got my completely stock, always-garaged, 92k mile, very clean 'A Package' 1990 Classic Red NA in February of this year for $4k.
    I always wanted a NC or even an ND, but now that I have an NA, I realize that I'm so fortunate to have started with the most popular color in the most popular year of Miata.
    There's something that's just so simple, honest, and fun about the NA, and I think I love it more with each passing day.
    Someday maybe I'll get a newer Miata as well, but I will never let go of My First Miata.

  • @fords4life914
    @fords4life914 3 роки тому +6

    I've wanted a miata for a long time...I'm 19 and I've loved them since I was like 7😂

  • @enriquealvarez4702
    @enriquealvarez4702 3 роки тому +2

    I picked up a 94 r-package dirt cheap years ago with low miles. Loved the car so much I don't care how much it goes up on value, I still drive it every day.

  • @pete5534
    @pete5534 2 роки тому

    Concise and well executed. Thank you.

  • @allimikej
    @allimikej 3 роки тому +16

    Sold my NA a few years ago. Bought an ND RF. I will drive it until the wheels fall off. Best car I’ve ever owned. If you’re looking at a user NA consider a used ND first.

    • @christopherbazaka1564
      @christopherbazaka1564 3 роки тому +11

      thats a small difference only $15-20,000 more

    • @allimikej
      @allimikej 3 роки тому

      True but well worth it. If you want the same performance via turbo / supercharger etc . You’d spend 8 to 10 k to get it right . Plus you have a warranty

    • @dysfunctionalcv7696
      @dysfunctionalcv7696 2 роки тому

      Exactly how I ended up with my ND 👍

    • @lightweightiseverything5068
      @lightweightiseverything5068 Рік тому

      I do not agree. I bought a brand-new ND Club (with BBS/Brembos) after 7-years spent daily driving an NA. The ND was good, but not as good. Just bought a 12k mile “brand new” 1990 Miata. Now, I’m happy again. The NA might not crash test as well as an ND, but that is about the only thing an ND does better than an NA. It certainly does not handle better.

  • @mx5miata891
    @mx5miata891 3 роки тому +2

    I loved our 1990...we love Miatas...we can hardly wait to get our Miata car club on the road!

  • @Lawbooks2050
    @Lawbooks2050 3 роки тому +18

    I own 5 cars, every single one of them output my Miata, yet, I daily drive my Miata Na because of the feel.

  • @cafeapaka7501
    @cafeapaka7501 2 місяці тому

    Owned the original 1990 Miata - I bought it new for 12,500 - incredible deal - the best car I have ever owned. I had the optional hard top but mostly used the soft top - I remember people restoring older British Race cars during this time and I did not want to go down that path as the original MX-5 scratched that itch in a more economical way - now looking at the newer model Miata's I can't imagine being able to afford one as the prices have quadrupled.

  • @Mad-Dog-Of-Shimano1
    @Mad-Dog-Of-Shimano1 9 місяців тому +1

    got my 92 almost a year ago, did some maintenance as soon as i got it and its been the best car ive ever owned so far. got it with 82k for 4500. was manual and LSD swapped.

  • @gisellemartinez8413
    @gisellemartinez8413 2 роки тому

    I been waiting a Miata, I always love the style of it. I been saving up for one. Seeing this video makes me more interested in it

  • @jackiekanngiesser7315
    @jackiekanngiesser7315 3 роки тому +1

    Excited to get my 1990 Miata MX-5

  • @stevenjackson8226
    @stevenjackson8226 3 роки тому +24

    It is a great car. One of the great cars perhaps ever. Yes, so many see it as a toy. Not the motorsports crowd. Those at the track or autocross. From day one it's been the sweetheart of this crowd. Heck, the SCCA has been called Club Miata. I'm an instructor at some of the northeast US racetracks. Pretty much to a person, us seasoned (uh, graying) instructors are happy to move pass the Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Corvettes, Mustangs, etc., to strap into into a Spec Miata. They aren't quick or fast, but corner complexes - where the skill and fun are - can be negotiated at a serious clip and with a poise, balance, finesse, and fun that's rarely matched this side of a full-on race car, like Formula Ford or Sports 2000. The Miata is an excellent car to hone a base of car control mastery. If you can drive a Miata skillfully, you can drive anything.

  • @juanesquivel9293
    @juanesquivel9293 3 роки тому

    Sweet data you geting out there. Thnx

  • @Ankur3108
    @Ankur3108 3 роки тому

    Always learn a lot from you Sam

  • @bevangarthfoot1346
    @bevangarthfoot1346 3 роки тому +2

    Beautiful little convertible- great to drive

  • @pete5534
    @pete5534 2 роки тому

    Well done.
    Great tips on buying a (potentially) great car.

  • @pitergriffin01
    @pitergriffin01 10 місяців тому +1

    1st gen, mint condition, midrange power, aka my dream miata

  • @str8slayn1
    @str8slayn1 3 роки тому +4

    The joys of the 1.6 Miata 😍

    • @barryhill1044
      @barryhill1044 3 роки тому

      Even more joy can be had with that little bit more power with the 2 Ltr engine...

  • @Shamil_Kamilski
    @Shamil_Kamilski 2 роки тому +1

    I want to keep my Miata my whole life, so yes, I agree with this guide

  • @heithwatkins
    @heithwatkins 3 роки тому +4

    Had a red one. 5 speed manual 1990. Bought it brand new.
    Still kick myself for ever selling it.

  • @kipp4805
    @kipp4805 3 роки тому +2

    Stonks now my car gonna be worth more thanks hagerty!

  • @MohamedAli965
    @MohamedAli965 3 роки тому

    Excellent presenter and video. well done

  • @speedcanada1
    @speedcanada1 3 роки тому

    I had a white '92 for a few years in the late '90s which I used as a summer DD, road trips, solo2, and many track days. I sold it in '99 to buy a Porsche 944. It was the first in a series of Porsches, but I've always regretted selling the Miata. Despite owning an amazing 997.2S, in 2016 I started looking for a rust-free NA or NB to keep the Porsche company in the garage. After combing through 30-40 "perfect" cars all of which had either visible or hidden rust, in 2018 I finally found a nice '99 NB. I don't expect to ever sell either of these cars!

  • @demingsun4685
    @demingsun4685 2 роки тому

    Bought a 1989 NA 4 years ago for $1800, no rust at all. Best purchase

  • @Dragon228833
    @Dragon228833 3 роки тому +1

    I have one but I’m still watching this

  • @Sir-Prizse
    @Sir-Prizse 3 роки тому +4

    I own a '99 Miata NB, is a very similar car, has the same chassis, same engine and just a different metal dress. The NB is even cheaper, a bit heavier, a tat slower, only has 110 hp (1.6) but I love it because it reminds me of what a baby between a Dodge Viper and a Jaguar E-Type would look like.
    Both the NA and NB are beautiful and uncomplicated roadsters that are incredible fun to drive.

    • @myon-
      @myon- Рік тому +1

      It's unfortunate that the non-American market NB Miatas didn't come standard with the 1.8 engine. With the 1.8 the NB Miata is technically superior to the NA in every way.

    • @Sir-Prizse
      @Sir-Prizse Рік тому +2

      @@myon- In Europe, the NB 1.8 and NC 2.0 are much rarer. Most people actually drive the 1.6, because the few 1.8s that were available are bought by enthusiasts and then crashed on the Nordschleife or have been extremely modified... or both.

  • @tylerprendiz2593
    @tylerprendiz2593 3 роки тому +1

    The miata is a great car to start with if you want to learn about cars and mechanics. My first car and it’s boosted now lol

  • @gordonriley5277
    @gordonriley5277 2 роки тому

    great video, didn't know about the engine backstory...

  • @gabrielulibarri9950
    @gabrielulibarri9950 3 роки тому +1

    I need one of those!

  • @andrewrumayar3103
    @andrewrumayar3103 Рік тому +1

    "...it doesn't have a lot of grip..." 👌 very few people realise there's a difference between grip and handling. WRX, EVO et al... they have a lot of GRIP so can corner hard, but they don't HANDLE as well as a Miata.
    Just you made mention of the Familia GT-X, there is also the higher specced GT-R. I had an NA8 for almost 10years and currently own an NA6 LE (Neo Green) for over 5 years.

  • @stevenpatruno2639
    @stevenpatruno2639 2 роки тому

    Love mine looks exactly the same ❤️

  • @johnnychun9728
    @johnnychun9728 3 роки тому

    I have my 1990 miata which I love so much, it had a lot of problems when I got it from some shady dealership. It was a POS but I repair all the rust and damage it had. Even turn it into a Kmiata, I want another one, just stock tho !.

  • @imcoegg7615
    @imcoegg7615 2 роки тому

    my fav car until now

  • @mehdimohamed6291
    @mehdimohamed6291 3 роки тому +18

    Watching a buyers guide for a car I know I barely fit in.

  • @dannyharris5310
    @dannyharris5310 3 роки тому

    Great video

  • @solracer66
    @solracer66 3 роки тому +1

    If the car has been raced one other place I would look are the front sway bar mounts, these can tear, especially if a bigger than normal sway bar was used. Now this is not a big deal, the mounts are inexpensive and Mazda Competition Parts even sells reenforced ones but it's one more thing to take a look at. That said my 1990 Miata was autocross for 4 years when it was new (I even won the very first SCCA Solo Nationals trophy ever won by a Miata) and the only part that I've had to replace as a result was the jack which after 250 tire changes started to show its age. I've had the car 31 years now, travelled just shy of 317,000 miles and as noted in the video it still drives tight despite still having its original suspension bushings. The car still looks great too, so nice in fact that a local Mazda dealer borrowed it for their 30th anniversary celebration!

  • @swissgator6312
    @swissgator6312 3 роки тому +1

    I've had my '90 A package for 27 years. Certainly not my daily driver (68k miles) but I make the most of the times I do drive it! Also have a '03 NB which is great, but not as great as the NA.

  • @shingoose6197
    @shingoose6197 3 роки тому

    Here's a fun car to do a Buyer's Guide on; 1983-1988 first generation Nissan Z31 300ZX (maybe the Turbos, 200ZR, 300ZR, etc). It, like the Miata, is coming up in price and there is a lot to look for before purchasing one. Dynamically, they're not amazing. But they're fun, inexpensive cruisers.

  • @LarryHopper
    @LarryHopper 3 роки тому

    Respect for a well done video.
    Is "short maintenance intervals and tend to take a lot of attention to keep running" a polite way to say "unreliable"?
    I have had my 1997 Miata for 17 years, still enjoy it, and never want to part with it.

  • @nolahahnshouse3389
    @nolahahnshouse3389 3 роки тому +1

    Trying to find a replacement engine for my 97 and yes it is one of the best cars ever made!

    • @whatarethat4876
      @whatarethat4876 2 роки тому

      same lol i cant find any 1.8 replacements within my price range. they are so expensive now:/

  • @Vahanalokam
    @Vahanalokam Рік тому

    Thankyou soo much

  • @TheGeordietheWitchandtheWench
    @TheGeordietheWitchandtheWench 2 роки тому

    3 x Rx7's, R32 GTR... I now own a 92 BRG Miata. It's wonderful, LOVE IT, I won't be selling it :-)

  • @benbradshaw29
    @benbradshaw29 3 роки тому +1

    I just picked up a '90 with a 12a rotary in it, almost rust free.

  • @AB-C1
    @AB-C1 3 роки тому +5

    Had a late 2004 MX-5 as it's known here in England, from brand new with 6speed manual and the bullet proof 1.6 (as the better engine than the 1.8) I had the car fully loaded from factory sports EVERYTHING moe-hair roof and and removable hard-top aswell chrome and sports peddals, I drove it year-round in England from Sun to Snow! For 2 and a half years straight around Wyndy roads and also down the motorway, did a weekend away once to visit friends 350 miles away averaged 110mph and felt like 210mph but ate the miles up and was comfortable as hell which shocked me! It was a great car I then made the mistake of part exchanging it for a Brand New E90 BMW in 2007 and only got £8,500 2 years old and only 22k on the clock! Would probably be worth that now! Trouble is the all rust out over here, I looked for it online as I wanted to somehow see if j could find it to re-buy from whoever owned it but the licence plate didn't even come up on the database so I'm guessing it either rusted away from someone not keeping it maintained and clean, or ended up wrapped around a tree or a track car? (I used to slide it out round corners but even I span it once 3 times around and around on the 3 lane motorway! Hit oil or diesel and how I managed to keep it on the road and not hit the central reservation or another car or lorry was a miracle pulled out all my top gear driving skills with that little escapade lol 😅🤦🏻🙏💪🤣😎
    Tbh I used to get ripped to shite from mates about hair dressers cat etc (until I took em for a spin in the little car and they couldn't believe the power to weigh ratio it was proper nippy against most cars and always felt twice as fast as it was) anyhow miss that car ever since I sold it, would love another one nearly bought one 3 years cheap(almost too cheap) needless to say it got snapped up and fell through as someone got in first.
    Great video mate and thanks for the nostalgia! Ps. My little brother also had one 2002 plate so we both had em he's 6ft 1 so his head stuck above the windscreen but he loved his aswell I think we both regret selling em..

    • @yeshwantdasari2075
      @yeshwantdasari2075 3 роки тому +1

      Hey man, I too am actually looking for a fun project car and the NB MX-5 is the top of my list in my sub £3.5k budget. Now my doubt is, Why'd you think the the 1.6 is better cause isn't the 1.8 the better all-rounder and they had the LSD as standard while not so with the 1.6. and from what I've known the 1.8 is slightly more reliable and easier to find parts for?

  • @verdict1163
    @verdict1163 3 роки тому +18

    Sam Smith is making some of the best car reviews out right now

  • @tarugo5613
    @tarugo5613 3 роки тому

    dream car

  • @gabrielulibarri9950
    @gabrielulibarri9950 3 роки тому +2

    I'd love to see the 94-96 Impala SS

  • @jmsjms296
    @jmsjms296 3 роки тому +1

    Drive it to believe it, all is said here. Similar market phenomenon as First Gen Mustang. Miatas will appreciate, hopefully not too soon (I dont want mine to be stolen). And take care of a good one and it will last LONG.

  • @user-vq6ym6qg4j
    @user-vq6ym6qg4j 2 роки тому +1

    Just got my first car, 100% stock 90 na with 135k miles. Glad I got it now lmao

  • @jmr1255
    @jmr1255 3 роки тому

    I need a video on that orange Cougar in the background

  • @jkroemer2685
    @jkroemer2685 3 роки тому

    I love my 93 NA ❤. I decided to not boost it and go down the rare parts rabbit hole. I just posted a walk around of it on my channel 😊

  • @MarkMeadows90
    @MarkMeadows90 3 роки тому

    I like the company Monster Miata. V8 conversions for these small cars is like a modern day Cobra.

  • @RetroGamerr1991
    @RetroGamerr1991 3 роки тому +1

    The rear rockers are what go on these cars in areas with salt use during the winter. The salt gets trapped between the inner and outer rocker just above the pinch weld where water collects when it's draining from the top. Once it starts rusting, you're looking at at the very least $1500 in labor to replace the panels. Luckily replacement panels can be had relatively easily on Ebay for about $500 total. If the rust spreads above the door latches, there's pretty much no hope in saving the car without a serious investment. The sad truth is, if the Miata came from the Northeast and was driven AT ALL during the winter at any point of it's life, it's only a matter of time before mother nature starts blowing holes in it. Buy one from anywhere except the rust belt. Rain is fine with these things but you'll never wash that salt out of those rockers once it gets in there.

  • @Laz_Arus
    @Laz_Arus 3 роки тому

    I often wonder how the prices of Australian NA MX5's are faring. I bought one from the first boatload that landed in '89 and it's still in great condition with around 105K kilometers on the clock. I don't drive it much these days as I bought an ND as soon as they were available here and that's now my daily. My heart says keep the NA, but my head says sell it to a good friend who will enjoy it more often than me.

    • @derb_
      @derb_ 3 роки тому

      Bought my '97 two years ago with 94000km for $12k, I've put 7000km on it and its currently insured for $18k.

  • @oOJakkeOo
    @oOJakkeOo 3 роки тому +3

    Here in Sweden the prices are mental. We bought our almost rust free NA last year with 140 000 miles on the clock for over $6000. The prices vary between $4500 for rusty ones to $10 000 for mint examples. They’re not very common over here.

    • @GhostKing6790
      @GhostKing6790 Рік тому

      same in the US

    • @skyscrapers22
      @skyscrapers22 9 місяців тому

      Being also from Europe, how does the gas mileage feel with gas prices being so high atm?

    • @oOJakkeOo
      @oOJakkeOo 9 місяців тому

      @@skyscrapers22 It’s expensive. The Miata is a quite pleasant sports car at the pump though, it doesn’t consume too much. It needs high octane fuel though which is expensive.

  • @garretrees7316
    @garretrees7316 3 роки тому

    The Torsen limited-slip was in 1994 and up cars.

    • @RetroGamerr1991
      @RetroGamerr1991 3 роки тому

      And pretty rare outside of M-Editions and R-Package cars

  • @assessor1276
    @assessor1276 3 роки тому +1

    Good review, but I have never heard of an NA with a blown differential - of any kind. The fact is that the Miata is one of the most durable cars around.
    I may be wrong about this - but I had read somewhere that the entire Miata driveline was lifted from the RX7 which was a much heavier and more powerful car - and that is why the driveline was so understressed.
    Mine had 325,000 km (more than 200,000 miles) and it is still going strong and the new owner is still having a ball with it.

    • @IGrocker
      @IGrocker 3 роки тому

      It’s just a thing with the viscous limited slip rear ends. Most racers avoid them because they’ll let loose for no reason. I’m sure there’s a technical reason, but spend enough time on the forums and you’ll see the topic come up

    • @RetroGamerr1991
      @RetroGamerr1991 3 роки тому

      The VLSDs are known for it. We've had guys blow them up on mild cruises lol.

    • @rockyrocker23
      @rockyrocker23 9 місяців тому

      my diff failed normailish driving

  • @frankblack8265
    @frankblack8265 2 роки тому

    I WANT ONE!

  • @enzos_corner
    @enzos_corner 3 роки тому

    An mx5 that clean, that is used on the road and that isn't a garage queen doesn't exist in the UK!!
    Lucky you guys, I had two NA (both sold because of very expensive rust problems)
    Absolutely amazing cars, but at least here the train is gone. For the money a rust free goes (a true rust free, as they rust from the inside out) you can nearly buy an early Mk4

  • @admincerit
    @admincerit 3 роки тому +2

    Miata is always the answer

  • @mountainman7782
    @mountainman7782 3 роки тому +5

    I was always told the Miata was supposed to be fun like the old British sport cars, with the exception that the Miata actually worked.

    • @annemccullough5560
      @annemccullough5560 3 роки тому

      It’s not a miata even in America it’s called a mx5

    • @jmsjms296
      @jmsjms296 3 роки тому

      @@annemccullough5560 Amen

  • @questioner1596
    @questioner1596 3 роки тому +4

    I was wondering why this guy who I don't remember seeing on video before looked so familiar. It's Sam Smith, whose face I would see in Road and Track!

  • @TheSweettooth95
    @TheSweettooth95 3 роки тому

    Get one and do a exomotive exocet kit!

  • @thewheel3167
    @thewheel3167 2 роки тому

    I got a 93 Miata with 120k miles with a hardtop for 5700 USD, it had been restored by a car collector who collected miatas and volvos, removing all the rust and cleaning it out. Its the best purchase ive ever made, ive never owned anything thats made me this happy. I am modifying it and changing it to what makes me happy, but its so easy to work on and bolt on parts that its just a joy.

    • @thewheel3167
      @thewheel3167 2 роки тому

      im not from the US but decided to convert everything to USA units

    • @asbodo32
      @asbodo32 2 роки тому

      So does the age of the car real matter. I’m looking at a 90’ with 95k miles and it runs excellent and no rust pretty much but I worry that if it is 30 years old the engine could just go

    • @thewheel3167
      @thewheel3167 2 роки тому

      @@asbodo32 the engines are actually famously bullet proof, there are Miatas with 500k miles on the clock, though its agreed that at around 200K miles the engine starts to have problems and is due for a rebuild. I would say as long as the maintenance has been kept up with (changing timing belts, fluids, and you have replaced the radiator as the plastic tends to crack at around 20 years old and is kind of a ticking time bomb after then) you should be fine. Enjoy your miata!

    • @asbodo32
      @asbodo32 2 роки тому

      @@thewheel3167 thank you, that's good to know. I made a lower offer but if the guy changes his mind, who knows, I'll have one

  • @_Blinxzy
    @_Blinxzy 2 роки тому

    I need a Miata in my life

  • @gplipp6489
    @gplipp6489 3 роки тому +4

    The Cougar. When is the show on the Cougar??!!

    • @davidkelley751
      @davidkelley751 3 роки тому

      That’s what I want to know. That 67-68 cougar looks great. I know they’ve done videos on cougars before, but I don’t think they have shown that orange cougar. My dad has a 69 eliminator and I love anything of classic cougars.

  • @randomtoyotadude8952
    @randomtoyotadude8952 2 роки тому

    Would love to see i video about mk1 mr2…

  • @Detail_Papi
    @Detail_Papi 3 роки тому +1

    And that brings us to the final poi....

  • @dominator-tc8ik
    @dominator-tc8ik 3 роки тому +1

    I know I'll get flak for saying it, but I just cleaned the snow off my red 91. Almost 80k mi., third owner. Once I get the top replaced/repaired, I'll get a cover for it until I can afford a garage.

    • @JoshuaTootell
      @JoshuaTootell 3 роки тому +1

      You don't have to have a garage to be an enthusiast.

    • @dominator-tc8ik
      @dominator-tc8ik 3 роки тому

      @@JoshuaTootell Well it was more along the lines of leaving it out in the weather. Previous owners garaged it and kept it super clean, I'm just feeling guilty 😅

    • @RetroGamerr1991
      @RetroGamerr1991 3 роки тому

      @@dominator-tc8ik Weather doesn't hurt these things at all. Only road salt. Just keep it out of that and you'll never have a problem.

  • @10ampsloblo21
    @10ampsloblo21 3 роки тому

    looks just like my 91 has 35k on it now bought it from 2nd owner with 22k in 2015 paid 7000.00 mostly sits in the garage

  • @arnoldosu1
    @arnoldosu1 2 роки тому

    Loved my ‘96, but my ‘05 mazdaspeed is better in every way. NAs are going up in value because they are hitting classic status, but NBs are going up in value because people are catching on to the improvements over the NA. NA is the prototype, while the NB is the finished product.

  • @robertlaw2304
    @robertlaw2304 3 роки тому

    I currently drive an ND and love it but would consider a NA or NB if I find the right one.

    • @RetroGamerr1991
      @RetroGamerr1991 3 роки тому

      I wouldn't do it. The ND is superior in pretty much every way except steering feel which even then is marginally worse and only if you drive them back to back.

  • @PetrTurena
    @PetrTurena 3 роки тому

    This car really deserves better rubber than Barum Bravuris 2 :)

  • @danielgrozdanov8905
    @danielgrozdanov8905 11 місяців тому

    Bought mx5 NB FL impulse edition (limited to 1500) for 5000€(around 6000$) great condition, air conditioning, heated leather brown seats. What do you think guys?

  • @JoshuaTootell
    @JoshuaTootell 3 роки тому

    I would love one. But the ones I have noticed are beat to hell. Might as well get an ND2. But...I kinda need something practical as my first car...

  • @kCI251
    @kCI251 2 роки тому

    The Miata is one of the easiest cars to enhance to make handling even better and performance thrilling.

  • @sol__sessions1918
    @sol__sessions1918 3 роки тому +12

    First view loved these cars, had two in my family.
    One of the most underrated Japanese sports cars of its time. Once you drive one few cars will deliver such driver connection to the road.

    • @orbion2
      @orbion2 3 роки тому +1

      How is it underrated?

    • @sol__sessions1918
      @sol__sessions1918 3 роки тому +1

      @@orbion2 everyone always relates cars to overall hp and the hardest part of getting the car was to ignore all those comments.
      Once in the driver's seat you forget very quickly about all those comments and stigmas of ownership.

    • @orbion2
      @orbion2 3 роки тому +1

      @@sol__sessions1918 Oh okay I get that. I own a 1991 Na6, but I don't think it's underrated - (generally speaking). Some might even say they're a bit overrated. People literally say it's the answer to everything.

    • @sol__sessions1918
      @sol__sessions1918 3 роки тому

      @@orbion2 i totally get you g, yess your comment is 100% valid. I guess there's two sides to that spectrum

  • @picotincriollo2368
    @picotincriollo2368 3 роки тому

    That's why MIATA is always the answer ;)

  • @FirstnameLastname-ni9uh
    @FirstnameLastname-ni9uh 3 роки тому

    Yep prices for these are so much more then they where 6-7 years ago.....

  • @carrosdiecast3650
    @carrosdiecast3650 3 роки тому +3

    I need and want a miata they look like a fun car to drive 🔥

    • @sol__sessions1918
      @sol__sessions1918 3 роки тому

      One of the most underrated Japanese sports cars of its time. Once you drive one few cars will deliver such driver connection to the road.

    • @carrosdiecast3650
      @carrosdiecast3650 3 роки тому +1

      @@sol__sessions1918 i agree and if im not mistaken they hold their value

    • @manuelaparisi3996
      @manuelaparisi3996 3 роки тому +1

      Be sure of it. Any version you choose.
      I never thought of finding so much satisfaction in driving a car. Pure enjoyment.

    • @sol__sessions1918
      @sol__sessions1918 3 роки тому

      @@carrosdiecast3650 I can see these cars going up in value in the next 5years. As the first gens become more scarce

    • @carrosdiecast3650
      @carrosdiecast3650 3 роки тому +1

      @@manuelaparisi3996 now i really need to consider getting me one! Thanks for the feedback

  • @orbion2
    @orbion2 3 роки тому +2

    Paid €7.000 for my ´91 and it was worth every €

  • @leannymart
    @leannymart 2 роки тому

    My lil brother purchased a 1990 Red Miata for $4500. The power steering, brakes and rpm have issues. As a big sister, I want to help, but wouldn't know how to proceed now that he purchased it. Any advice? :)

  • @howardwhite9773
    @howardwhite9773 3 роки тому

    At the point I was looking for a "fun appliance car" (contradiction in terms, I know), the fuel economy of a 1.8L Miata was 20% less than the 2.0L Focus I ended up with. Is a drop top more fun? ~!@# yes! I still have, and will keep, the Focus. The only way I would consider a Miata is one with more than 4 cylinders (which defies the hell out of economy).

    • @rjherche
      @rjherche 3 роки тому

      The current 2019 and later is pretty quick for what it is.

    • @solracer66
      @solracer66 3 роки тому

      The 1.6 gets much better milage than the pre-2001 1.8, 32 vs 25 mpg in my experience. The 2001 and later 1.8s will hit the high 20's but I would still choose the 1.6.

    • @howardwhite9773
      @howardwhite9773 3 роки тому

      Here's my point - my 1992 Mustang 5.0 got 25-27 mpg (mixed). My 1998 BMW318ti got 30-32 (mixed) with a 1.9L. My Focus routinely gives me 35-38 (mixed in summer) with 2.0L. I realize there are physics involved but the 1.6L has got to do better than that. TNX for the feedback.

    • @solracer66
      @solracer66 3 роки тому

      ​@@howardwhite9773 The Focus is a fine car but the top doesn't go down and handling-wise it's not in the same league except the later Focus ST and RS. FYI my current daily is a Fiesta ST but I save weekends for the Miata.

    • @howardwhite9773
      @howardwhite9773 3 роки тому

      agreed. My initial post is full of contradictions. BTW, I have a 1970 MGB garage queen, without engine, that I am trying NOT to install a Japanese motor - just 'cuz!

  • @tristan8243
    @tristan8243 3 роки тому +2

    Dude rip to those frame rails! Only 10k miles?

  • @Barbwire710
    @Barbwire710 3 роки тому

    I want

  • @N8Catona
    @N8Catona 3 роки тому

    Do one for a mk3 supra?

    • @annemccullough5560
      @annemccullough5560 3 роки тому

      It’s not a miata even in America it’s called the mx5 I don’t no my they call it the name

  • @mrwbean
    @mrwbean 3 роки тому +1

    I got mine for $2000 cad in 2012 .... How come it never dropped in your graph?

    • @RetroGamerr1991
      @RetroGamerr1991 3 роки тому

      He was talking about pristine examples. You can still pick a good runner with 100k+ miles on it for just north of $4k

  • @randomtoyotadude8952
    @randomtoyotadude8952 2 роки тому

    Why not make a video about mk1 mr 2.. very simular miata

  • @unkulwilly
    @unkulwilly 3 роки тому +3

    that thing is mint. where on earth did you guys find one that wasn't ragged or raced out?!

    • @SpartanDara
      @SpartanDara 3 роки тому +1

      Just keep looking, they definitely made enough of these cars. Hell, I found a nice one in minnesota that didn’t even have the rails improperly used to jack the car up (check how caved in they are in this car, happens a lot unfortunately)
      I’ve heard that some of the nicer cars can be found in the colder/northern states because they’re kept in storage for half the year and only driven during winter. Low miles, always garages/covered, etc

    • @speedcanada1
      @speedcanada1 3 роки тому

      @@SpartanDara I agree that this was the case with the original owners in northern climes, and even second owners. The problem I found when looking in 2016-2018 was that when these cars bottomed out in price about 10 years ago, they were often bought by young people as an only car and winter driven; those cars are now rust buckets. I found the quality of cars on the market in Ontario and Quebec to be very different from just a few years ago.

    • @SpartanDara
      @SpartanDara 3 роки тому

      @@speedcanada1 Yeah, i’m the third owner of mine, 87k miles atm and it’s never been winter driven either. I found it after a few months of looking, a little under 2 years ago. Good luck if you’re looking for one!