If you've waded through all these pages, you are probably thinking that I have a problem with Miatas. However, I've always upgraded to a better example of the special cars I was looking for. This time, I wanted a car that wasn't a limited or special edition and that I could modify without worrying about destroying originality.

This 97 Touring package became available in February 2008 with only 33K miles on it. The previous owner had already gone the route I would have with handling with the following modifications:

KYB AGX adjustable shocks
Flyin Miata springs
Flyin Miata front and rear sway bars
FCM bumpstops
Freedom Design strut tower brace
A very aggressive and precision alignment

From a dress-up point, the owner added:

Polished cam cover and intake manifold
Moss interior light kit (much appreciated!)
Stainless dash surround with matching instrument needles
R-package front and rear air dams (the rear being worth its weight in gold since they are no longer available)
Oris Windblocker
Nardi Classico Wood steering wheel - Unfortunately, had to go in Virginia since our inspection law requires functional airbags in cars originally equipped.

The car handles like the proverbial go-kart. I've added Chaparral wheels with Kumho SPT high performance summer tires for street use but this car could easily go to the track with some suspension settings changed.

Since all the handling work has been done for me, I can focus on the engine. I will be adding the new JRSC M62 blower from Moss Motors in the next few weeks to make the power output comparable to the handling abilities.

It may not be the last Miata I ever buy, but I'm determined to make it the best performing one I've ever owned.