Quote:
Originally Posted by Rider
Wouldn't a slightly used Z3 be a batter buy? Probably not as reliable but more performance and a better ride.
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Good thing I wasn't drinking at the time, I would have spit all over my monitor! The Z3 uses a very antiquated (i.e. crappy) rear suspension design, vs. the state of the art multi-link in the Miata. The ride/handling compromise is unreal - and for reference, I've recently had 2 S2000's, a Cayman S, and now also own an '08 M3.
At Harris Hill Road (closest track to Austin), the lap rankings/records were something like this last I checked:
1. Radical ~1:18
2. Ferrari 355 Challenge ~1:19-1:20
3. 911 GT3 RS ~1:23
4. '08 Miata (not mine) 1:26
5. Exige S ~1:26
Behind that are other Lotuses, Caymans, Corvettes, Porsches, etc.
The NC Miata can get a lot of rubber under those flared fenders, giving it a potential traction advantage over most other cars which can overcome the power deficit on tighter tracks.
Heated seats are great on cooler days/nights, it extends the comfort zone for topless motoring. Heck, we have 'em on all 4 of our cars & trucks, and once you have 'em, you'll problem appreciate them. I prob. won't use them again until Oct., but will be happy to hit the button when the temps drop again!