WTB: Miata ($12 K budget)

I know the title doesn't say much, but that's my current thinking and why I'm posting it here.
My 1999 BRG was totaled on Monday. I was stopped in-line at a red light and a lady in a large dodge ram tried to go by me on the left, was a bit out of control and side-swiped my car. My back left quarter panel and axle took the brunt of the force. Thankfully I was not injured. Now I'm fighting with insurance. What should I hold out for? :rolleyes:

Getting back to the point of this post. In your opinion what year & trim should I consider and why? ::Whisp::
My budget is $12K. It will be my everyday car. I'm getting on in age so comfort is important. Like everyone else, I enjoy driving on winding roads.

Your suggestions/recommendations greatly appreciated
- Pat

2006+ MX-5 but I already told ya that! ;)

Maybe a well-maintained 2004 MSM? I know of one. Under your budget, too. In Plano.

I can tell you that a 2006-2008 NC GT package is a very easy to live with vehicle on a daily basis. Great creature comforts, and a terrific drivers car.

how about an 02 with 112k miles
for $8500
oh yea and it comes with this stuff:


FM turbo kit
http://flyinmiata.com/index.php?dept...%20BLK%20GAUGE

hard dog hardcore hard top roll bar
http://flyinmiata.com/index.php?dept...%20%200%20DIAG

hard top

fm brake upgrade
http://flyinmiata.com/index.php?dept...umber=14-19005

FM clutch kit
http://flyinmiata.com/index.php?dept...005%20%2010.30

Begi ECU reflash
http://www.bellengineering.net/index.php?cPath=5_51_308

335 cc injectors
http://trackdogracing.com/deatschwer...setoffour.aspx

Walboro 190lph
http://trackdogracing.com/walbrofuel...0psi90-93.aspx

New Carpet

New Seat Covers

Tokico Handling kit
http://www.good-win-racing.com/Mazda...t/20-1052.html

New shifter stuff

2.5 in exhaust shop exhaust with magnaflow highflow cat.

innovate LC1
http://trackdogracing.com/lc-1lambda...h02sensor.aspx

Volk Rays TE37 rims

and a whole bunch of other crap I cant think of right now.

Really? That's not exactly "comfy DD" as I see it. Nice racecar, though.

If I know the O.P. I'm thinking he is looking for an uber-reliable stock Miata.

He is not a performance enthusiast. Just a guy looking for a fun, reliable car.

The NC fits the bill nicely.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by black roadster

If I know the O.P. I'm thinking he is looking for an uber-reliable stock Miata.

He is not a performance enthusiast. Just a guy looking for a fun, reliable car.

The NC fits the bill nicely.

---

Yeah but it has no soul.

How nice was your 99'? How many miles? Those will help determine value. Don't let them value it as low as they might try.

Black roadster is correct. I'll probably never be a performance enthusiast. A comfy fun, top-down drive is it. I'll make enhancements over time, but track racing is not on my list. Reliability is most important, but must also be fun.

My car had 88,015 miles, probably the least expensive available at the time. No power door or cruise control. Was running well, all the fluids recently changed. Insurance gave me $4,975. NADA shows clean trade-in 4,375, retail 6,275.
Wish it was more.

I will be going to the auto auction on Wednesday. Any suggestions on what to look for or conditions to avoid?

Your inputs are greatly appreciated.
- Pat

S2000

*sigh.
The S2000 is soo friggin awesome. I wish I had bought one of those instead.

I think you are the perfect candidate for a late-model NB, softop NC GT or an S2000. All are fantastic cars; all will make you happy, and all are excellent values these days.