I'm new to the miata world. Actually, I'm not even new yet, since I haven't purchased a Miata. Anyway, a little background on me: I'm coming from the Subaru world. I bought a 2001 2.5RS 3 years ago, started a WRX swap, had some unforeseen expenses, and had to cut the cord on it. I sold some parts, sold my motorcycle, and now I'm looking for a 1994-1997 Miata. Now that you know my situation, here's my question. I like the idea of using some stuff from my poor beloved Subaru on my Miata, and I still have the TD04L from the WRX swap, but I want to rebuild it before I use it. I'm in the process of finding some info on the rebuild kits available, but lets say I go with the facotry kit ($110). The other thing I was considering is ARD's 11 blade turbine wheel, which according to the salesman would provide "near supercharger-like response" because they flow so much better than the stock 12 blade, and would spool so fast on a stock compression 1.8. That would be $160, bringing the total cost to roughly $270. I would port and polish the turbo myself, and I think the little guy would really scoot and have some grunt. Tell me what you think!
Pros:
I already have the turbo
I have the flanges I would need to make a custom manifold and down pipe
Sentimental value
Exceptional spool
Cheap to replace/rebuild
Unique setup

Cons:
Not much support for prefabbed manifold/down pipe
Cost ($270 seems like a lot to spend on a TD04)
A lot of work to fab custom manifold and downpipe

I like the idea. It is probably a ways off, but since poor planning is what killed by subaru build, I have no problem thinking ahead.

 

I'm pleased with my TD04L-13T build on a '99.