I am looking for a 1994 Miata with the R package option. I am in Dallas, TX so the closer to here the better, obviously. I intend to do a V8 conversion and total restoration of this car so motor and trans condition is not a factor (except to be able to drive it to Dallas). I am looking forward to sharing the transformation of this little fella on this forum.

 

By the time you do everything involved in performing a V8 swap the fact that the car started out as an "R" is almost irrelevant. The only differnce between an an R and any other 1994 Miata is a set of lower springs (can't reuse with a V8), a set of Bilsteins (will have to be revalved), a slightly stiffer front roll bar (should really be upgraded to a racing beat of equivalent) and possibly AC/PS delete (both of which can be deleted from any car during the swap). The only other differences are the front and rear air dams, both of which can easily be purchased and added to any Miata.

IMHO, the best donors are "babied" automatic garage queens. They are often low miles, usually never driven rough, typically live in garages, and sell for less money than 5-speeds. As an added bonus, the automatic transmissions sell for a lot more $$$ than 5-speeds and the lower-compression engines are desired by turbo guys.

Good luck with your build,
-Jason

 

Thanks for the info ...