New to miata, possibly

[Miatabyabigrcar]

I'm thinking of picking up an older Miata around $3000 or so and I was wondering if you all had any tips for the investment/enjoyment. I read a few threads of people talking about wether or not the Miata had 'LSD' or not, and some about drifting or body roll. Can you tell me more about these specific issues? I love sliding the back end loose at every available opportunity. Also there is a White 1992 Miata convertible for sale in my area right now for $3950 asking with only 55k miles on it. Is there a specific year that something got way better? like I should be looking for a 94+ year? My friend had one of the original miatas that took on water in the front when it rained.

 

[MazKid]

The '94 is the one to get due to the 1.8L and LSD on all trim levels except base. '94s and '95s also had more chassis bracing. '94s have real oil pressure gauges as well.

 

[Shinsen774]

LSD is limited slip rear differential. Not essential, nice if you're autocrossing. I have it and like it, but for a daily driver not a big deal either way for most people.

Drive it at highway speeds, 65 mph, to see if it has the "65 MPH Shimmy" that some have and is apparently hard to remedy.

Look under the carpet on the parcel shelf. If the rain rail leaks you'll know.

Check www.miata.net for more information that you'll ever be able to read!

 

[lagunamiata]

And look here - http://www.miata.passionroad.com/
It's a spotters guide and year by year changes.

For $3,000 you should be able to get a good condition NA (90-95). Newer than 95 will probably be more money. You'll be looking at 100,000 or more unless you get lucky.

I second that '94 is the best year to get.

 

[Shinsen774]

Good advice Laguna, but that site you suggest has a number of errors...so be aware.