Hi All,

My username is aps2099 & I live in Sydney, Australia I recently bought a 2000 mx-5 NB 6speed (2001 Miata NB-FL 6speed) A.K.A Black Betty. When I originally bought this car it was supposed to be just a cheap car to get to and from work as it had all the things that I prefer, a front engine rear wheel drive, good on petrol & a manual (which was a must have on my list) - the drop top was an added bonus.

This left me with little or next to no choices and the obvious option to me was a Miata. I spent months researching online for one within my price range which was $8000. I wanted one that was in perfect/mint condition, blue with low km (miles) and unfortunately I missed out on some good deals for being too particular. I definitely had no idea about cars but I needed a car ASAP.

I made a compulsive decision in buying my car - it’s a little “rough around the edges” as per the photos. My test drive went okay, however it does have a leak in the cam cover, the clutch is a bit worn but other than that there are no other mechanical problems.

When I look back I almost walked away but I am glad I didn’t, even though the purchase was purely out of desperation that the perfectionist in me overlooked all the cosmetic damages such as the dents in the side panel, as well as the ripped interior. But in saying that I have never driven a car more fitted for me.

I am now on a new journey to restore & modify Black Betty as well as learn to drive her more skilfully - hopefully with the support of this great community Black Betty & I will reach that goal.

 

Welcome. I too well understand your comment about overlooking defects on a purchase. I’m happy with my car, but if had been more patient, I could have ended up with a garage queen, and not have needed to replace the top, etc.

What are your goals for BB?

 

Hey, DNMakinson
Thank you for the warm welcome. My plan for Black Betty is probably going to be a partial restore I’d like to get P.P.F subframes and PPF bar from another car stripped down and powder coated and installed then have a dent removed and and fresh coat original colour for the body. Other then that I’d like to do handling upgrades sway bars brakes coilover’s then start on power(turbo) love the noise it makes. I do have question if you can help me out what’s good power levels for Miata without going power crazy as every man wants more power. To me handling is more important. So what’s the sweet spot?

 

200-220hp is the reliability and fun sweet spot.

Stock engine will last forever, wont break transmissions, and lots of fun with basically double the hp.

 

What Borka says: and include $$$$ (Aussie Dollars, that is) in that sweet spot.

 

Cheers guys, at least now I have a starting point.

 

Those wheels look great with your color. and I think the dent will pop out pretty easily; looks like a good choice!

 

Thanks, the gold rims were supposed to be temporary! Originally the ones that came with the car were black but I destroyed them when I hit a pot hole entering the freeway and bent both of the them, this was literally the day I bought the car. Luckily I got the gold rims with tyres brand new off of gumtree (like craigslist) for $700 so it worked out.