I recently sold my track only NA Miata. I was tired of trailering it everywhere and decided i wanted something I could drive to the closer tracks and maybe even enjoy on a nice weekend day. Now I can't decide what that might be. Budget is about $20k, less is better. Drove a 370Z and it felt big an heavy. Considered the NC Miata and like the idea of the new Spec Class. But if i add a roll bar and other track goodies, will i want to drive it on the street. Considered one of the twins (1st Gen). I like them a lot but the engine scares me a little - do they hold up on track? I'd love to have the 2nd Gen GR86 but also concerned about the engines. Thoughts? Others i should consider?
In reply to Alphadawg :
There's always the Sundae Cup route, small light car on 205's. Fits, 2's, Accent/rio's, Mini's etc. Not fast, but you can wring them out to 90% on the street and usually not break any laws. Lots of interior room and amenities depending on the model/year
Spec S197 Mustangs are a great choice
NOHOME
MegaDork
3/5/24 10:14 a.m.
In reply to Alphadawg :
I was going to suggest the Twins cause I like mine a lot. Brilliant chassis. But the engine is one place they went looking for weight savings, so "robust" is not the word I would use to describe the internals, and "Subaru "and "Head Gasket failure seem to be synonyms".
I ended up buying a 06 Mustang for csm for similar reasons. It does feel big in stock trim, but changes a lot with spec mods. Also can be bought and built for well under 20k.
Tom1200
PowerDork
3/5/24 11:12 a.m.
I would say NC Miata. With a proper seat I don't see the roll bar on the street being an issue.
I am doing the same exact thing; in our case it's a Foxbody Mustang........I like older flawed cars.
With your budget I might be inclined to do a S197 Mustang.
987.1 Porsche Boxster S. Absolutely a blast on the road and on the track. Good ones are available for around 20k.
Change the fluids regular like and thrash the daylights outta it.
Tires, suspension and shifter are the only mods you need to do. There's not a lot you can do to make more powa.
For $20k I'll sell you a HDPE spec S197.
