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Re: Re: Nice Review from an Owner (Reply to this comment)
by mcsstokes
I should clarify my comments. I think the Lexus is a fantastic looking car. And I drove the SLK (also love the look) before getting the MSM. But I was not impressed by the Mercedes' handling. I suspect the Lexus is more about form over function, nothing wrong with that but it wasn't what I was after.
I certainly understand your concern about safety in the car. I think that, unfortunately, the general attitude in this country towards car safety is to isolate the driver as much as possible (percieved safety) and surround them in mass. The approach is to engineer a car that will survive an accident, rather than engineer a car to AVOID an accident.
A Miata (or any small roadster) should be noisy and give you plenty of road feedback. It's that sensory information that should make you a better driver. By making you aware of the 2 ton SUV or the 12 ton 18 wheeler next to you (instead of surrounding you in blissful, isolated silence) you will hopefully learn to avoid those vehicles. And that's the best way to avoid an accident. Not being able to hear the giant truck doesn't make the giant truck any less dangerous.
On the road, I'd rather be in my MSM when I'm forced to deal with a rapidly degrading road situation that is going to require aggresive, evasive maneuvers.
You can sum up the Miata (or any roadster experience) like this: Don't try this in your Other Car.
Have fun with whatever you buy!
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Dec 16 '04
5:44 am PST
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Re: Nice Review from an Owner (Reply to this comment)
by jo.com
Thanks for the great info. I just might do that. Maybe it is just that we are so busy. I haven't gotten a car yet. Or it is just that I do not know what to buy. At 52 (I hate age but) and a shoulder that acts up, a speedster isn't necessary. We just thought it would be fun. I have to admit (as you grimace) I like the wanna be Lexus. It has a tiny back seat so at least there is room for something plus I think I would feel more secure in it - this Miata is so small as are the BMW z3 and z4 which I am also considering. Thanks for r/r/c and again the information. jo
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Dec 16 '04
3:43 am PST
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Nice Review from an Owner (Reply to this comment)
by mcsstokes
I had to respond to your review, it was nicely written. I own a Ti MSM and love the car. I'm also very active on the Miata.net forums...yes, I'm an enthusiast.
I admit I was amused by the comments about the rough ride. You bet it is. The suspension for the MSM has been improved over the Base model and the LS. This is a pure sports car and that means a HARD ride. You'll appreciate it in the corners, the car has almost no discernable body roll and oversteers beautifully. That means when you go fast into a corner (as I love to do), you should be able to easily induce a back-end slide and countersteer your way out. It's pure driving joy and the MSM makes it incredibly easy to do!
This is not a car built for those looking for a luxury, wanna-be sports car like the SLK or Lexus two-seater.
It's probably worth mentioning that the turbocharger kicks in around 3800 rpm, that's where the car really takes off.
The lack of a power top is clear - too much extra, and pointless, weight.
The MSM will not be offered with an Automatic transmission. The clutch and 6-speed transmission were re-designed specifically to handle the increased HP in the MSM due to the turbocharger. After 05, the MSM (and other trimlines) will be replaced with the yet-to-be released Miata NC.
You should take the MSM out for another drive, only this time push the car hard. Take it to redline. Find an empty parking lot and induce some oversteer or even put it into a full spin. You'll be amazed at what the car can do when it's driven as it was engineered to be driven.
Good Luck!
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Dec 15 '04
1:38 pm PST
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Re: 2-door convertible (Reply to this comment)
by jo.com
Hi Peggy no I haven't tried it but mostly likely will. I had my heart set on a BMW since I sold my 4 door and my husband just liked the look of the Miata (and price:). But since neither seem to be working for us we might just go back to the drawing board unless I can buy a new BMW Z4. That's what I really want! Thanks for r/r/c. jo
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Oct 30 '04
4:55 am PDT
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2-door convertible (Reply to this comment)
by pilarzmom
Have you tried the Nissan 350 Z yet? My hubby opted for the hardtop because it allows him to put the seat back further (he's 6'4) but he's did test drive the softtop as well.
He got the automatic with the manual shift mode. I can't comment on the manual model but this model is super smooth.
Take care, Peggy
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Oct 29 '04
8:13 pm PDT
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Re: Nice job (Reply to this comment)
by jo.com
:) I mention layperson because I know there are some "professional" reviewers in all the categories that use jargon I can't even begin to understand. I think the consumer doesn't understand it either but I just like to make it clear when I write reviews about products I am not close to being an expert on (versus for ex. a piece of gym equipment) that I am not an expert on it. Ok I will clarify that. I test drove the Z4. Since I thought I would review it, though this one took me 2 days to write!! I started to keep it a mystery as to what I test drove. I can understand the confusion..jo going back to see if I can fix that. Thanks for r/r and the comment.
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Oct 28 '04
2:35 pm PDT
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Nice job (Reply to this comment)
by tch7
As usual, I enjoyed your review. However, I was left a little confused, and I think it's something you should bring some clarity to.
You say "the BMW I drove" throughout the review with your comparisions, but I wasn't too sure which BMW you were talking about. At the beginning, you mention the 325i, and at the end you mention the Z4. Through the powers of deduction, one can reason out that you are comparing it to the Z4, but I think it'd be better if you just came right out and said it.
Also, be happy you're a layperson. I much prefer reviews that are all about the experience, and not about the technical details. Everybody can understand and enjoy a review that just puts out the general observations that make sense to them.
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Oct 27 '04
4:40 pm PDT
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Re: Nice review! (Reply to this comment)
by jo.com
Thanks, Bob. I agree we are all just laypeople but some people really know cars and others just drive them - kind of like those who sell computers and those of us who just use them. So I'm a bit intimidated by some of the topics that I "just use":) thanks for r/r/c..appreciated. jo
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Oct 27 '04
1:48 pm PDT
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Nice review! (Reply to this comment)
by pvreditor,  in Cars & Motorsports
We're all just laypersons here, Jo!
--Bob
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Oct 27 '04
6:44 am PDT
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