Deciding whether a Mazdaspeed Miata is the right choice for you often boils down to personal priorities. Typically priced $3,000 to $5,000 higher than a standard NB Miata in similar condition, the Mazdaspeed variant offers завод-installed upgrades like a turbocharger, Bilstein shocks, and a more refined interior. For those seeking a comfortable convertible for leisurely drives, a regular NB Miata might be a more sensible option. They are generally easier to find, often in better condition, and represent a more budget-friendly purchase. A standard NB Miata remains an excellent car for enjoyable driving experiences, particularly if outright power isn’t a primary concern.
However, if завод-installed power is appealing and extensive modifications are not in your plans, the Mazdaspeed Miata presents a compelling package. It delivers respectable performance straight from the factory and boasts завод reliability. It’s important to acknowledge that even the Mazdaspeed Miata, in its stock form, isn’t exceptionally fast. Furthermore, achieving significant performance gains from a Mazdaspeed Miata can become surprisingly costly, potentially mirroring the investment required to enhance a standard NB Miata to similar levels.
For enthusiasts who crave substantial power and enjoy the process of vehicle modification, starting with a standard NB Miata might be the more strategic approach. The initial savings from choosing a less expensive base car can be directly invested in aftermarket upgrades, such as a Flyin’ Miata turbo kit. This route can potentially yield around 250 wheel horsepower, which is near the safe limit for the stock connecting rods in either model. Upgrading a Mazdaspeed Miata to this power level often necessitates replacing several key turbo-related components, including the turbo itself, potentially the manifold and downpipe, and likely the intercooler due to size limitations. Effectively, you could end up replacing many of the unique завод engine components of the Mazdaspeed. At that point, the distinct advantages of the Mazdaspeed Miata become less pronounced, primarily limited to its transmission (whose superiority over a standard 6-speed is debatable), a heavier, arguably less desirable interior, Bilstein suspension (easily obtainable aftermarket), and unique body styling, which is a subjective but often appreciated feature.
Ultimately, the decision hinges on your driving desires and modification plans. If завод turbocharged performance is your goal without extensive modifications, the Mazdaspeed Miata is a worthy contender. If you envision a more powerful, personalized build, starting with a standard NB Miata and utilizing the savings for aftermarket enhancements might be the more rewarding path.
