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View Full Version : Miguel's 1999 Roadster build. Trying to make this poor thing look pretty (many pics)



RabiaEx
01-22-2013, 01:38 AM
To start off, this is most likely going to be one of the slower builds as dat college budget sucks. Located in central FLA; since I was maybe 12 years old I knew that I wanted a Miata. I would read amazing things about them, the 50/50 weight distribution, nice rev-happy 1.8 engine, and how it could eat up Vipers and such high-end cars at the track. Plus, you get all of that under 5 grand. The aftermarket support for these cars is immense, I was just in love with the Miata(shit, it's already turning gay) and the thought of owning one.

Come March '12, I purchased this 1999 Miata, Touring edition. Leather seats, cruise control, Nardi steering wheel, and Torsen LSD. The previous owners had went ahead and fitted some 17's on it, too(MB Five-X, Discount Tire specials).

http://i.imgur.com/0N1ba.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/DL1He.jpg
Lookin like a donk

RabiaEx
01-22-2013, 01:39 AM
A month later, coilovers were ordered and the rear spoiler came off. I went with the Rokkor coilovers as I heard they're good for the lows(I won't be tracking this car) and daily driving. Plus the Rokkors supposedly have higher spring rates closer to Megans. At this height the car makes the wheels look a lot better on it. :rofl

http://i.imgur.com/5MAXa.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/adChC.jpg

Couple of months later, after a lot of research, I found the best wheels and tires for my budget in terms of size, weight, and color. I got 15x8 +25 Konig WideOpens in Bronze with 205/50/15 Yokohama S. Drives wrapped all around.

http://i.imgur.com/CmybY.jpg
Moderately Slammed
------
This is the ride height I ultimately settled on. Lowered, tucking a bit of tire, but still "comfortable" to drive. I loved this stage in the beginning, but three months down the road it got a bit boring. I wanted a more aggressive, street look.

http://i.imgur.com/xZu8r.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/ksTea.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/6baVF.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/dvu0q.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/12NIn.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/jZ4dD.jpg

RabiaEx
01-22-2013, 01:40 AM
Decided to dump my car on those beefy 205/50s for lols. So much rub! This is still with the helper springs and bumpstops on the coilovers.

http://i.imgur.com/LAjEu.jpg

Then, I decided to sell my wheels. Got a great price on them, couldn't have been happier; naturally, went on to buy new wheels.

I borrowed some 14's from a friend and just slammed the car to(almost) shit. It's fun

http://i.imgur.com/I0CLU.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/nrwk9.jpg

After two long weeks the wheels finally arrive at my doorstep.

http://i.imgur.com/3wCyt.jpg
949 Racing valve stems

http://i.imgur.com/oP5rt.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/phIrT.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/Pz9Z9.jpg

I decided on going with Rota Grid Vs 15x9 +0 all around. To be fitted with 195/45/15s

http://i.imgur.com/ib8CI.jpg

Oh, this bit that I left out.. Managed to fix it the most I could myself

http://i.imgur.com/HTzVk.jpg
That sticker is gone now

Popped out the dent in the bumper but the fender is bent. Either way it will be getting bodywork and paint done real soon
http://i.imgur.com/9KT9x.jpg

RabiaEx
01-22-2013, 01:46 AM
And this is how Sharky sits now!!

http://i.imgur.com/plmo8.jpg

As you can see, the paint and body is really messed up. It will be painted Nebula Grey Pearl(Lexus) this weekend, hopefully.

Photos done for my buddy's photography class
http://i.imgur.com/LjAafqz.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/ghvPSME.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/PLa7Yqe.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/P4ku15k.jpg

Christian Moudy See 'Em Photography (http://www.facebook.com/CM407Photography)