code3smith

New member here dropping by to say Hello. I am in the market for a V8 Miata, so I figured this would be a good place to introduce myself. I am checking one out this weekend in my area, and could use a few pointers on what to look for when inspecting a conversion. I am not new to project cars, just to the Miata itself. I originally considered building one, but with so much on the family plate, I thought I would pick up something that was already built that we can actually enjoy driving, not looking at all the parts in the garage and driveway, go figure Thanks in advance for any suggestions. Hope to be a part of the community soon!

On a side note, for anyone potentially selling a decent priced setup, I am all ears

rick

Welcome to the forum!

code3smith

Well, I am the new owner of a V8 miata I will post some better pictures and video this week when I pick up the car. It was a private sale, and I put down a deposit. It is a 90 red Miata with a 91 5.0 HO engine.

PROs:
- Rebuilt stock 302
- T5 trans
- Independent 7.5 rear end
- Car assembled mostly with parts and advice from Monster Miata. Includes manual.
- Nice wheels with new tires
- Roll bar
- PRICE!!! (was 6k, got it for 5300....)

CONS:
- Car is rough on the outside paintwise
- Top needs to be replaced
- Needs brakes immediately
- Needs shocks very soon
- Has some minor idle issues (no big deal)
- Interior needs love...

Overall I am extremely happy with the car. I wasnt looking for a pristine car as much as I wanted a solid swap. The rest is just fluff we can take care of. The car drove well, sounded awesome, and turned heads at every corner we drove by lol. Here are a few basic pics from his ad. Looking forward to getting it home and cleaned up.

MRM331

Good find! Run a KOEO and a KOER test on the ECU an report back what codes it throws. We may be able to help narrow down that idle issue.

-Jason

code3smith

Thank you kindly Jason, will do! Hopefully pick up the car in the next day or two.

code3smith

Here are a few more pics of the car.

MRM331

What kind of radiator is it running? Most have the inlet on the passenger side.

-Jason

code3smith

That was one of the few question marks from the builder. I asked as I wanted to make sure it was adequate enough, and he was unsure. When it gets home I will take a closer look. What is the standard radiator people use for the build?

By the way, I picked up a code reader so I can start going over everything when it arrives. That air filter is getting nixed first thing. I think its smaller than the factory panel.

code3smith

She is finally home The owner didnt want me to take a chance with the brakes needing immediate attention, so he ended up towing the car to me! It is my sons birthday today, but when I get a chance, I will get some new pictures up. I am really looking forward to sorting out any issues and getting it cleaned up. The weather here is BEGGING for the convertible to come out and play