MX-5 Track Car

[G-P]

So I have decided that another MX-5 is the way forward to a cheap track car but which is the best model to go for? It has to be a mk1 but do I go for a import or a UK car, 1.6 or 1.8?

Cheers

GP

[Eighteeteewhy]

I'll get in first...

You are probably better off going for an import as a lot will have some updated bits to get you started, suspension, chassis stiffening etc. The 1.6 v 1.8 thing is a whole can of worms, best thing is to drive both and make your own mind up. Rust though, is the main thing. Along the sills especially towards the rear arch and the rear arches themselves.
That's just my 2pennys.

[rovermorris999]

Look for a strong shell and a torsen lsd IMHO of course.

[St. Anger]

Just buy the cheapest one you can find, don't worry too much about the rust - if it's a track slag then paying loads of money for aesthetically finished welding isn't really worth it!

[skinny]

probably a 1.8. bigger brakes, stronger clutch.

[NeoVR]

Definately a 1.8 (bigger brakes,clucth,diff,chassis bracing) - alot of people end up bolting these onto 1.6 models anyway.
Probably a jap import 1.8 S-Spec is a good start, that has all the above + torsen LSD, thicker arbs and bilstein suspension (which is bonebreaking hard on the road but pretty competent on track).

Ive just sold my s-spec for well under a grand.. would have been ideal for you.

Also a good 4w geo setup will make a big difference, couple of well respected companies on the MX5 forums like Roddinsons and WIM will provide a geo setup specific to your needs.. tell them its a track car and they will adjust it accordingly.

Edited by NeoVR on Saturday 7th January 12:28

[G-P]

Thanks for all the help, I will start looking for a 1.8 EUNOS.

[Munter]

G-P said:

Thanks for all the help, I will start looking for a 1.8 EUNOS.

That's definitely where I'd start.

[G-P]

There is so many different Eunos models how do you tell them apart?

[Munter]

Just pick a 1.8 and if you find an rs it's better.

Or there are lists of all the models on the owners club website I think.