Decisions, Decisions

[krazy skwerelette]

Okay so I'm giving my husband aka Krazy Skwerel the 200sx. Most of it is his anyway out of his s13. It's the only way I will get a fun convertible again. So the decision I have to make is what to get? Looking to only spend 5 or 6k and it has to be a manual. My top 2 right now is either a miata or 240 vert. Found a vert with a slipping transmission, we have another one that will fit so I could get that for super cheap. But I am tiny so Miata screams my name too. I'm just stuck and looking for input from my fellow niconauts to help me out since I know most Nico people have either owned or own a miata. Which is more fun to drive, maintenance and modifications - which is cheaper/easier? I'm really going towards the 240 vert since we have so many parts already but still want to hear some opinions.


Here's the 200... because who doesn't love pictures?!?!

[themadscientist]

Miata is one of those pivotal platforms like an old musclecar or anything old and Italian; I'd go with that.

[Bubba1]

I suspect once you drive a Miata, that's what you'll end up buying. The smile per mile/smile per dollar quotient is very high.

[krazy skwerelette]

I've drove miata's before but they were mazdaspeed. so i'm afraid i'll just be disappointed when i get a regular one. I mean I know the disappointment i'm walking into on a vert. I dunno it's hard to choose... we shall see.

[frapjap]

The Miata is more of a drivers car than a 240 convertible. Plus, it looks way better and was designed to be a convertible from the start. Its also cheaper to run.
I suppose you'll have to post links or more information on each specific cars details to make a better, more informed decision.

[nissangirl74]

Miatas are fun and parts are plentiful. The Vert is a money pit and you know it. Zoom-Zoom.

[BusyBadger]

I'm guessing an S2000 isn't a possibility in this equation.

Miatas have never really done it for me, no idea why. All the same, given the choices you posted I'd go with the MX5.

[Desert Rat]

I have a very nice rust free Z31 for sale with a manual Ready to drive anywhere with tons and tons of new parts.

https://phoenix.craigslist.org/evl/cto/5611736199.html

[Jesda]

NA/NB Miata is the answer to everything. Big aftermarket, lots of spare body and interior bits you can find anywhere as it ages. My preference is NA 1.8, MSM NB, or any later NB with VVT.

NC is nice if you go 2009+ and intend to have it as your only vehicle for long commutes and road trips. Early NC is just okay and has quality issues. And if you decide you're going newer, open your mind to the Solstice and Sky.




Summary: NA/NB

[PapaSmurf2k3]

Miata. Clearly the answer.

[krazy skwerelette]

i am going more towards a miata... i found a nice supra in the area that tickles my fancy but I'm pretty sure it's sold aka not on craigslist anymore. and yeah the vert would be a money pit. it's nice we have some parts for it off of Krazy Skwerel's coupe but i just don't want a money pit i want something that is moderately fast and good looking. i just would like a convertible or targa or t tops 80's looking goofy car. so i've been looking at some z cars and goofy mustangs. i'm open to everything. I"m in the nashville area so yeah.

[Jesda]

240 verts are cars you restore and cruise with.

Miatas are cars you beat on and neglect with great joy.

[krazy skwerelette]

well i apparently love torture... picked this up tonight. pretty clean body has a few minor things. Top doesn't leak but needs a new one to look good again. plan on putting a 5 speed in it, 5 lug swap, put Krazy Skwerel's works on it. new struts and springs and clean up the interior which isn't terrible pretty happy with it. one owner 88k original miles. has the common tail light issue otherwise all electronics work.



here's the wheels that will go on it

[Jesda]

Holy crap <3

Where did you find a 240, much less a convertible, that hasn't been thrashed into a million glued together pieces?

[krazy skwerelette]

hasn't been titled since like the late 2000's was on lots owned by old dudes that wanted too much for it. Adam actually tried to buy this car about 10 years ago. We got it at a great price too.

Anyone know if the CA18DET transmission will directly bolt to the KA? I am finding different things saying the bellhousings are the same some say they are different. I hate Automatic cars.

[Dattebayo]

It is not a direct bolt-on, hope it helps.

[float_6969]

Congrats on the vert! CA auto won't bolt to KA. Bellhousing bolt pattern is different.

[krazy skwerelette]

Thanks guys. We figured it didn't but Adam couldn't remember fully. We'll probably just get a different bell housing. I'm not minding the auto for right now since I commute and get stuck in traffic often.

[float_6969]

The KA has enough torque that it's not too bad with the auto.