then how come the clutches in formula 1 for example are basically the size of ones fist? They handle power just fine...

 

That's comparing apples and formula one cars. No comparison.

 

not really maybe, but it does show surface is not everything. Clamping force is where it's at. Why would people go for the larger 1.8 clutch and flywheel combo other than the more available options for clutches?

 

Formula 1 clutches have multiple plates and don't have much in common with miata street clutches. All things being equal other than the diameter the larger diameter clutch will have more holding power over a similar yet smaller diameter clutch. Think back to the lever analogy. Or pick up a bicycle wheel and give it a good spin, now stick your finger in the spokes right next to the hub...Ok now spin it again and grab the tire....What hurt less?

 

You can make a 1.6 clutch handle the same power as a 1.8 but to do so you must increase the force applied by the pressure plate (squeeze it harder). In doing so you increase pedal effort and that’s why Mazda went to a larger diameter clutch when they produced the 1.8. More holding power with no increase in pedal effort. Larger diameter brakes don't have to work as hard as smaller diameter brakes and thats why they create less heat and less fade.

 

You guys are overthinking it. The corrado rotor will:
a) have more braking torque. T = F * d * sin Theta (angle between F&d. sin [pi/2] = 1) (distance of brake area is further from center than OEM rotor, thus more d)
b) added surface area for heat dissipation.
c) add ~3 pounds of unsprung rotating weight per corner.

Formula 1 clutches substitute more force using more plates to make up for distance, in order to achieve a lower moment of inertia (i.e. less rotating mass). They also weigh 2 pounds and wouldn't be streetable.

That said, I need to get that rear kit. I am maxed out as well.