http://eauclaire.craigslist.org/cto/4439419917.html
It has about 90k miles, its in almost mint condition. But when I test drove it, the automatic transmission kind of "kicked" when shifting from 1st to 2nd only when it was cold. I wanted to offer $3200, is this a bad idea, good idea?
Quote:
Originally Posted by Craigslist
Looks great for its age!!! I would get it and swap out the automatic transmission unless you want that.
I would like to have that car and swap the transmission.
Edit: Also remove the style bar.
I already told you what I thought about it.
If you really want a manual, i would search around a little more, I picked up a 95 with 110k for 2500, interior is mint and was in good health, just need to do routine maintenance stuff, belt, water pump etc, I shopped around for a good 4 weeks before i found one I was content with.
Just my experience, you are the one buying the car, so make sure you are happy with it
I would look for a manual to begin with instead of doing a swap, that way you save time and money. Unless your cool with an auto. It's a clean car though.
as others have pointed out it would not cost you much more if anything to get it with a manual. The chassis looks clean but fixing an auto will take away any saving you would make if not loose you money in the long run.
Driving a Miata is all about the great manual shifter. The earlier reply is correct, you may spend $1500 on the trans and you can find another BRG of similar miles or even a little more that hasd been maintained for $5-6K with a stick. It will not lose value if maintained and is the most beautiful Miata built.
Also, the 1.6 automatics have a slightly lower compression ratio compared to the manuals.
Folks , not everyone has the desire to drive a 5 speed or the physical ability, to do so. Just fyi.
>> transmission
>> swap
>> etc
>>>> even my wife wants to learn
True. I own two Miatas, one manual one automatic. For me, the heart and soul of the car resides in the handling, and for non-track usage, the cars are very similar. Sure you can't down shift in the auto the same way you can in a manual, but, I would always start off in low 1 and pop through the shifter.Quote:
Originally Posted by The Driver
A quick video from many years ago, of my automatic Miata.
http://youtu.be/Y9DI6nbeU-Q
First off, you are not dumb! I ponder the idea of buying a used Miata in good condition with an automatic because they are bountiful and lower priced. Just like those here have responded with good advice, I learned that the cost of converting out weighted the savings buying an automatic. There are many Miata owners who prefer to have an Automatic Miata and would consider making an offer on this particular car. The condition of the automatic you discovered could be caused by a dirty internal filter; but, it could also be an early indicator that the transmission needs replacement with a refurbished used transmission. Find out the cost of a replacement transmission and if you really want this car, then subtract that cost from the asking price and make an offer the seller can't refuse.
There is truth in the old adage that "good things come to those who wait"