9.5 is not high compression. at all. this is 2014, we have the technology to control engines without running absurd 7:1 compression ratios

You're right, we do have the technology, but with lower compression I can run more boost and timing. And 8.6 does sound enticing.

All of this discussion is useless unless we're talking about forged rods. And then if we ARE talking about forged rods and stock pistons, then you want to just keep what you have or move to 10:1s and run E85.

Stock rods + Stock B8 pistons = full retard

I'm not talking about stock rods at ALL. I know I need forged rods, I'll be going to a BE pump, MS2 ETC. And no e85 here in east TX unfortunately.... So I guess I'll be sourcing new pistons. I enjoy driving the Miata too much to have it down that long.

Forged rods = Stock NB pistons for ghettobuilt E85 motor

or

= forged pistons in a flavr of your choice.

Don't fuck about with shitty oem 8.3:1 pistons that won't get you anywhere.

throw some supertechs in there I do believe they are the lower priced of the forged pistons

then just crank it up :)

^looks like that's the plan.... Apparently even though the b8 pistons do give lower compression they've got a thin wall somewhere on them and don't hold up well to a bit of power or much detonation. Yes I know detonation is a no no, but I would hate to blow my motor while tuning it lol.

They've got a weaker ring land than the others. Skirts are weaker as well.

Your idea was good and others have done stock pistons with forged rods and are happy with 300whp. I know the d16 civic guys run forged rods and pistons from vitara to lower compression and run 300+ whp on a budget build. I guess no one has found any such good option for miata yet. Keep thinking outside the box.

Why? We already have awesome affordable piston choices that don't involve getting intimate with a shitty 25 year old motor.

But bro, don't you want to be different? -__-

Lol, I haven't checked this in a few days. It's not about being different for me, just taking 18psi's rods only approach and trying to extend it a bit further. But if it isn't a good idea, it isn't a good idea.

True

I like you.