Not criticising these mods myself, in fact I'd do the same, and more if I could afford it, but a word of warning. The stock body roll makes for very safe and predictable progress. Low body roll will mean entering understeer or oversteer situations rather more abruptly if you overcook things, so know what you are doing when driving a modded car.
@@Dan_Cartlidgetrue, I bought a 2014 NC 2 Miata Club and the underbody’s all rusted out. I’ll have to replace the front/real struts, went to this video because I was considering coil-overs but I’ll stick with OEM parts just to play it safe.
I have coil overs and a a sports exhaust on my 2007 NC and after a 450km run I was still in good shape and I am over 50. I was expecting to be stiff and sore but no all good!
I just bought my first Miata 10 days ago and I have NEVER had this much joy and fun while driving in my life. 2008 Miata NC1 Grand Touring in Marble White- I work at a Mazda Dealership so I get a lot of parts at a discount which helps- but I know the NC is the one everyone hates the most so it’s nice to find a channel that has some upgrades on it! I don’t think I will ever give this up, I’ve driven Hellcats and Redeyes and 63 Benzos at work and opened them up and they are all bad ass but … the Miata is truly always the answer for me
I'm currently saving for a decent NC for a weekend toy absolutely love this channel new here and working my way through the play list thanks for all your hard work
Hey Chris! Sorry for the late reply! Your comment genuinely made my day at the time I read it, a proper boost I needed that day! Thanks so much. I'm going to do my 2.5 year update very soon, so yes, another video coming!
I'd go for suspension first. That driving feel is unmatched. However that being said, I have both mods together (and possibly a lot of mods thrown into it). Once you go for a full exhaust system, that low RPM drone becomes more apparent in your cabin with the top up.
I have RX8 yellow dot bars on my Mk3 (2010) car, but it has the stock Bilsteins. Before and after is transformational and I can only imagine it would be much better still with some decent coilovers. The RX8 bars are a straight swap with no other tweaks required, so are very easy to do. Regarding the exhaust note, an easy and cheap(ish) fix for the stock sound is to fit a Cobalt stainless back box. These sound great and are affordable, they don't increase power (as far as I am aware), but they add a lot of smiles and no drone.
@@C22RLD what do you mean by guides? The RX8 ARB's are a direct replacement for the MX5 ones, they fit with no modifications required, just take off the MX5 ones and put the RX8 ones in their place
Thanks bro for the video ik where to start with mine now I just bought a 2006 mx5 NC 2l with 52k miles on it for my first car I love it always wanted one since I was little and so far it hasn’t disappointed me
Another cracking video, has to be the exhaust for me - big fan of the sound! Cracking up at your various 'excitable giggles' along with the quote at 07:52 😂
Another good vid, as some one who has had a mk1 mx5 with coilovers in the past,yes its more planted, but and its a big but, speed bumps become a nightmare,I lived with them for 4 years and yes they where adjustable,I now have a mk 3.5 like yours and I have left it stock suspension for that reason ,but I am thinking of a new exhaust its the sound, it makes a difference,well in you head anyway keep the vids coming
Thanks so much, Gary, I really appreciate it! And yeah I did forget to mention that in the review, it was an absolute ballache getting over speedbumps, you'd have to go one wheel up at a time and wait for traffic in the other direction to clear as it often required going on the wrong side of the road haha! Amazing handling difference though. I filmed this back in March and have decided (for my car and where I live) to keep stock suspension. I maaay stiffen up the rollbars one day but I think it's very well judged out of the box to be fair.
They have coilovers from the factory. Sure it's a bit pedantic but accurate too. What we are talking about is introducing adjustable Coilovers to add to the already multi adjustable suspension, I'm on Ohlin R&T DFV's. Remember every height adjustment made will need a full 4 wheel gel set up so not as simple as raising/ lowering to suit any given situation. Also, wheel spacers? Never move the offset more than 15mm or you might find some strange handling, including tramlining & sudden breakaway as demonstrated at what seemed to be rather moderate speed.
Suspension first (including a more aggressive wheel alignment), 9” rims second with 235 or 245 tyres, headers and exhaust 3rd, ECU tune 4th. You then have the start of a very nice car. Then braided brake lines, upgraded brake fluid, Winmax pads, adjustable sway bars and send it on the track.
Coilovers are usually my first mod for any car. Completely transforms a car into something else entirely. Also, coilovers are easy to install your self. Id suggest self installing to save lots of cash and then just paying for an allignment.
I had the same dilemma.. I mostly drive in London sos suspension upgrade got the back seat. Went for a BBR super sport backbox. Puts an instant smile and didnt hurt the wallet too much. Looking at at least springs next year and lowering bracket for the seat
I actually really like that the exhaust wasn't too loud on startup but sounds great when you get going. I reckon get the more expensive exhaust with less drone, and maybe keep the suspension stock so the lean makes you feel like you're going faster than you are. Fun review keep them coming!!
Thanks very much pal, and oh believe me, the microphone doesn't do it justice - it's reaaally loud haha! I'm in agreement though that the exhaust is the way to go first. The stock suspension (where I live) is actually perfectly suited to the speed bumps and general potholes etc!
I spent $3k on beefed up sway bars and coils for my 2015 PRHT . She now drives like a proper sports car instead of like my mother’s Buick! Holds the line like a wet dream!!
Those both mods are essential for MX5 , and really good adjustable swaybar will be even better than Rx8s . Car feels completley transformed with those modes, in a good way. It also makes great track toy for very low investment adding track pads and good brake fluid .
Definitely! I'm very tempted by the adjustable swaybars myself, feels like the best first move for suspension without compromising comfort (the roads around me are absolute crap!)
2015 PRHT (Silver with black interior): 1). Changed manual transmission fluid to Ford Synthetic. 2). R/R front brakes with drilled and slotted rotors. 3). Since I felt that my baby drove like a Buick, I beefed up the sway bars and coils (Not willing to go in for coil-overs3!) 4). Knurled shifter knob and emergency brake handle. You don’t want to see the two body “modifications” on the right side that I did ALL by myself! I am SO proud of my handiwork!😂
I owned a 1.6 NB about ten years ago. Test drove a 2008 1.8 yesterday that had stainless exhaust and dropped suspension - and was amazed at the difference (the car is so planted). Like you I was giggling my way down the road.
They're just brilliant aren't they, the irony that for so long they've had the reputation as 'the worst, fat MX-5' is just hilarious once you've actually driven one. I can understand where the accusation would come from if you haven't driven one but they drive so, so well!
Don’t know why the mx5 videos stopped, there are so many mx5 enthusiasts but not much up to date content. Btw I think you do a brilliant job. I’ve come from a M2 competition and own a superbike but just getting myself an nc after a short test drive - so much fun at none prison speeds.
Hey bud! Thank you so much for your supportive words, so glad you're enjoying the videos! Funnily enough, I'm going to film my 2.5 year update on my MX-5 very, very soon and I'm going to a local MX-5 specialist to make a full buying guide on what to look for :) I deliberately wanted to stay away from being a RUclipsr who just does their car over and over again, I wanted to keep the content varied - but it's definitely time to bring the MX-5 back! I've got a few more ideas too. Thank you again and I'm glad you've seen the NC light, they're bloody brilliant fun! Have you got the M2 Comp still?
@@petrolpoodle6617 I’ll definitely be watching that! To be fair you probably do right switching it up a little bit and appealing to a broader audience. The M2 has gone, first a DCT and then a manual Comp (future classic I hear). I’ve come from a world of fast bikes and the M2 just didn’t set the world on fire like I thought it would, the manual was better though. In all honesty my old fiesta st was more fun in the real world. It’s looking like I’ll throw some mods at the mx5 and make it the best it can be i.e. manifold/remap, coilovers, geo etc.
@@Throttle.Monkey Mate that's awesome though, what a collection of motors you've had! And absolutely, if you haven't bought an MX-5 yet, look on eBay for BBR examples of join the NC Owner's club on Facebook and mention you're looking for an MX-5 with some light BBR work. People come out of the woodwork and you'll get a car at a great price with all the best stuff done already! They're incredible platforms, truly special when a little bit of work goes into them :)
As to swaybars. I run ohlins shocks and run yellow rx8 sway bar on the front with stock on rear. Tried rx8 yellow on rear but started to push the back around. The rx8 front was an improvement over the stock bar.
That's fascinating, I'll have to give those a go, I'm really curious to see how much of a difference it makes. My car sadly can't have anything but a stock alignment after the accident last year (someone drove into my front right wheel). So I'd love to modify the handling to sharpen it back up to how it was on the fast-road setup. What do you reckon my best bet is? Front rollbar and go from there?
@@petrolpoodle6617 the front would be the best bet. The rear was a downgrade imo, which is why i swapped back to standard. There are three different stiffness ratings available ,red ,orange and yellow in that order from memory. Many guys opt for the red as i think it is the stiffest ,but i suspect it is mainly in cars without quality coilovers as the yellow ones i have firmed the car immensely. My thoughts at the time when i did this were that the reds would be too firm and start to reduce suspension compliance. The suspension is so good in these cars that tieing the two sides together too hard starts to affect it. The bridge to gantry guy that has that superquick time on the nurburging doesnt run a rear sway bar at all if i remember although im pretty sure his spring rates will be quite high.
@@chrissikora3359 cant remember offhand ,they are quite a bit fatter than the original mx5 ones so will need the bigger bushings that they use ,maybe 6mm or so larger diameter. I went to a place where you can strip wrecked cars and grabbed the bushes as well. The bushes are fairly cheap new just have to buy the rx8 ones
I saved up years to do a project so this is a bit unfair because most people don't have 10K lying around but, the first thing I did was the BBR stage two turbo conversion and Yellow Speed coilovers. It's a complete animal. 300 at the fly and 270 to the wheels and it was worth every penny.
Your video has hit on a dilemma for maybe all new NC owners. Very helpful discussion no question. Personally I will start with upgraded stiff swaybars, front and rear but less aggressive rear, then a Roadster Sport Super Q. Coilovers maybe after considerable driving with this set up. Your video was very helpful. Thank you.
Thank you so much Greg, I'm really glad it's been helpful! I think you've hit the nail on the head with what to do, especially given the low cost of doing ARBs and the fact that they don't compromise comfort or noise either. It sounds like you'll have the ideal MX-5 in no time!
Got the 1.8 version for my first car and can't dream of insuring modifications yet, but I'm in that same situation of; it has 88k miles on it, who knows how long I'll have it, and an obviously small budget, will definitely be considering that exhaust... when the insurance will allow it lmao
My advice is if it's your first car and you love it, don't worry too much about modding it very far and losing that money - they're epic stock and given that it's your first car you'll likely buy your second sooner than you think anyway! Enjoy it!
Thanks, Garry! I would say that you definitely want to invest in an exhaust that lets you enjoy it on any journey and not feel fed up with drone. But certainly one that ramps up the excitement factor too!
@@petrolpoodle6617 thanks for replying! Since my previous comment I have also decided to invest in installing ITBs. Paired with a decent exhaust will sound incredible!
I went through this over the last few months. I was then fortunate to be able to both. I went for Meister’s, and the racingbeats super ‘q’ If I had to choose 1, I’d go suspension every time. Improves the car no end. I was also worried about it being to hard, ride is also better than before (which was unexpected). Exhaust is great mind😉. The super “q” is a great choice if you want something more subtle and you can swap the baffles to alter how loud it is, it’s expensive mind.
Amazing mate, thanks for sharing! It's hard to describe how much of a difference those coilovers make isn't it! It really is a whole new car. I can't wait to source a new exhaust at some point, I'll investigate that one for sure!
@@petrolpoodle6617 I was skeptical about the whole lowering and coilovers, I did lowering springs on a Nova SRi (im a good bit older than you) back in the day. Hateful is the only way to describe it after it was done, hard as rock. You could go round a smooth corner faster, but you couldnt drive down a road that wasn’t race track smooth without needing dental work after. Coilovers seem like magic to me, lower and stiffer, as expected, but somehow much better on rougher roads, over pot holes etc, doesn’t seem possible. Handling transformed. BBR200 kit next.
@@johngriffiths2881 this really made me laugh! Couldn't agree more, I'm going to skip lowering springs and just save up in the future I think. I currently live on terrible roads though so I'm actually quite grateful of the standard setup at this moment thankfully. It'll come one day for sure!
Sounds like you've got a right setup there! I'd say it's worth saving the money up and getting a BBR backbox or something popular with the owners that doesn't drone at motorway speeds. Having heard what it can sound like, I know it needs a little more pep now. Mine is now my weekender so I'm all the more tempted!
@@petrolpoodle6617 Previously I've owned two Subaru WRX[s] with turboback exhaust[SPT & Perrin], tuning[COBB], and mild suspension Whiteline mods. I will always love the thunderous sound of unequal lengths headers becoming alive around 2750rpm. This time around I am focusing on lightness and agility. If I ever change the NC2's exhaust, it must be for one that is lighter, and improves exhaust gasses flow. I can't find a BBR backbox for the NC2 at this time, but I'll continue to look for the lightest, best flowing one I can find. I really want a good exhaust note, that is not overly loud. The PRHT MX-5's cockpit is so tiny, any sound is hugely amplified. I loved my WRX, but I adore my MX-5. Cheers to you sir, and enjoy your ride!
@@vlenhoff I absolutely love WRXs and STIs, I grew up in the 90s with my dad having one of the first 1995 WRX's in the country and a Grey Import JDM Impreza STI Version V. It was amazing, 4.6 to 60 in 1998! He later got an 05 in 2010, so I've been a huge fan of that noise my entire life! I still yearn for that proper Subaru experience at some point, I did throw a 97 WRX around an experience day rally track and it was hilarious fun but an incredibly shagged example. How's your experience been? And it sounds like you and I are on the same page re: the MX-5 exhaust, but you know what you're talking about a bit more! If you find the dream answer, let me know! Happy motoring to you too, good sir!
Great bit of road you are on there down near Rye. I'm due to view a NC today and will be looking at doing some of these mods. I've been really enjoying your videos.
Hey Jason, Sorry for the slow reply, I accidentally missed this one! I really appreciate it, thanks for watching more than one! Did you get the NC in the end? If so, how's it been for you?
@@petrolpoodle6617 No worries, no doubt you are a busy man. Bought a 2 litre sport in blue and have already completed the seat lowering, which has made a huge difference. I've also changed the brakes and some broken interior parts. I love it I had a first generation many years ago but it was literally ran over by a transit van! Looking forward to future videos. 👍
@@jasonobee8065 Brilliant mate! That's awesome! If you haven't already, getting a specialist to do a fast road alignment will transform the car and not even count as a modification, easiest win ever! Glad you're loving it and thanks for subbing and coming along pal!
I have a BBR super 185 GT backbox and tune on mine, I think that's the best everyday exhaust, plenty of bark but no drone at all!! My plan is a set of coilovers that I can set higher than my 30mm lowering springs as I scrape in a lot of places 😅.
You didn't mention tyres...They can make a big difference. I had 40's & they were a bit too thin for road use. Had to get new coilovers to lift mine coz previous owner had dropped it too far & exhaust had already been done too. Overall, most fun car I have ever owned (NB) Going to get NC next time for sure.
Very true, I'm going to do an upcoming video on my most recommended mods and as mod '0' instead of mod number 1 I'm going to mention tyres as they're the first and most important thing to tick off before starting, for sure! And of course, alignment!
It makes a mega difference! I'd say if your roads near you are of decent quality (i.e no potholes, inconsistent surfaces and you don't really deal with speedbumps) I'd look at suspension only then. I've decided (given where I live) that I'm actually happy with stock suspension and it does a great job for daily duties. It's the exhaust that's gotta be upgraded!
I'm have a Honda Accord from 2013 2.0petrol and I'm 1.87cm tall and 95kg commuting 100km daily. I don't know if I will fit or be comfortable. At least half of my Accords confort I will be happy. What do you think?
Oooooo that's a tough one! With the seats lowered it helps but I think you could be juuuuust too tight in there my friend. But, please do go and test drive one with the roof up and see how you get on. They're brilliant, brilliant fun and a joy to own. There are owners who are 6ft 3 (probably your height) but it depends on how much of that is their legs. And I've had a couple of friends at that height sit in the car with their heads touching the roof or juuust getting away with it after the seat drop. See how you get on ☺
So, it would be good to know which exhaust gives you the best of both worlds.....Cobra's seem popular, but not keen on the noise.....needs more rasp, less boy racer . Thoughts?
Hey Stan, I believe that was including an entire hunter laser alignment after (which is anywhere between £80 and £150 depending on who you go to), so there's that to factor. You could do the swap yourself at home and then get it properly aligned after to bring that cost down. Amazing difference though!
I think I show a screenshot of the name and price at the beginning my friend. Have a look back :). It's super loud though so if you're a regular motorway driver I'd think carefully. Otherwise it absolutely cracked me up and made the car so much fun!
It wasn't a brake bias issue thankfully, it was the fact that I didn't know it was the crest of a hill right there, so the wheels half lost contact with the road and then when the weight landed down again it caused the back to wiggle! Hahaha The car was otherwise perfectly setup, just not driven perfectly...
@@petrolpoodle6617 Just arrived home about 10 minutes ago with my new (to me) 2015 Mazda MX-5 Miata with 145k miles. It has the power retractable hard top and a manual transmission. It needs some body work, but is mechanically good. I got it for only 9000 US dollars!!!!
@@Chiimp I'm so pleased to hear!!! That's brilliant, I love that 2015 final run too! Huge congratulations and thank you for updating me, let alone minutes after getting back! Happy motoring my friend!
@@petrolpoodle6617 Still got it. Beauty of a car. I got about 160k miles on it now and it has some coilovers and wheels. I plan on modding it to be my little track car now that I got adult money😂. Love this car!!
Sorry it glitched and gave you a different reply from the comment above 😂 😂 😂 That seemed horrible! I called Ayrton and whilst he can't remember or find the name in his emails he said that they were 20mm hubcentric spacers and just worth spending a little money on. I recall he spent about £200 on them
@@petrolpoodle6617Do you have a link for these spacers by any chance? Thanks for the great video btw.. Quickest way for me to justify spending money on my first upgrade! 😂 Gonna go with coilovers.
I don't usually to be fair, I think my brain was having a hiccup whilst presenting to camera. But many thanks for the criticism anyway, hope enjoyed the rest of the video
A good question! I think they know best about finding the true balance of a super comfortable daily car that can also be enjoyed on track - true! A car that keeps retired couples happy who just want to enjoy the roof down but also car enthusiasts throwing it around. However, the car has sooo much more potential if you happen to want to dial the experience up - and it's honestly astonishing how well it drives after modifications.
Not criticising these mods myself, in fact I'd do the same, and more if I could afford it, but a word of warning. The stock body roll makes for very safe and predictable progress. Low body roll will mean entering understeer or oversteer situations rather more abruptly if you overcook things, so know what you are doing when driving a modded car.
Very good point, John, thank you. I've pinned it for the world to see!
Yes, one thing to consider is do not use such a suspension on a road with many tar snakes. It could send you off course quite fast.
The first major upgrade for these cars is a major underbody clean and some high quality underseal.
100%, seen a few rotten NC’s now, and the newest are almost 8 years old now, so only a matter of time before they need attention too
@@Dan_Cartlidgetrue, I bought a 2014 NC 2 Miata Club and the underbody’s all rusted out. I’ll have to replace the front/real struts, went to this video because I was considering coil-overs but I’ll stick with OEM parts just to play it safe.
Laughs in Californian. Never seen rust in my life
I have coil overs and a a sports exhaust on my 2007 NC and after a 450km run I was still in good shape and I am over 50. I was expecting to be stiff and sore but no all good!
I just bought my first Miata 10 days ago and I have NEVER had this much joy and fun while driving in my life.
2008 Miata NC1 Grand Touring in Marble White- I work at a Mazda Dealership so I get a lot of parts at a discount which helps- but I know the NC is the one everyone hates the most so it’s nice to find a channel that has some upgrades on it!
I don’t think I will ever give this up, I’ve driven Hellcats and Redeyes and 63 Benzos at work and opened them up and they are all bad ass but … the Miata is truly always the answer for me
That is amazing, really glad to hear pal! And yeah I feel like we have the last laugh don't we!
I'm currently saving for a decent NC for a weekend toy absolutely love this channel new here and working my way through the play list thanks for all your hard work
Hey Chris!
Sorry for the late reply! Your comment genuinely made my day at the time I read it, a proper boost I needed that day!
Thanks so much.
I'm going to do my 2.5 year update very soon, so yes, another video coming!
I'd go for suspension first. That driving feel is unmatched.
However that being said, I have both mods together (and possibly a lot of mods thrown into it). Once you go for a full exhaust system, that low RPM drone becomes more apparent in your cabin with the top up.
Thanks for the tips and sorry for the late reply pal!
I have RX8 yellow dot bars on my Mk3 (2010) car, but it has the stock Bilsteins. Before and after is transformational and I can only imagine it would be much better still with some decent coilovers. The RX8 bars are a straight swap with no other tweaks required, so are very easy to do. Regarding the exhaust note, an easy and cheap(ish) fix for the stock sound is to fit a Cobalt stainless back box. These sound great and are affordable, they don't increase power (as far as I am aware), but they add a lot of smiles and no drone.
are there any guides anywhere on these rx8 roll bars?
@@C22RLD what do you mean by guides? The RX8 ARB's are a direct replacement for the MX5 ones, they fit with no modifications required, just take off the MX5 ones and put the RX8 ones in their place
Manifold swap first mod
Thanks bro for the video ik where to start with mine now I just bought a 2006 mx5 NC 2l with 52k miles on it for my first car I love it always wanted one since I was little and so far it hasn’t disappointed me
What an incredible first car!!! Enjoy, my friend!
Another cracking video, has to be the exhaust for me - big fan of the sound! Cracking up at your various 'excitable giggles' along with the quote at 07:52 😂
Hahaha thanks, James, much appreciated. It really does change the car drastically!
Something just able everyone misses is Sway Bars. They improve the handling sooooo much
I'm desperate to do mine! I always look for the RX8 ones on ebay but they just don't exist each time I search.
Any pointers on your favourite ones?
I did sways and hD coils in my 2015 PRHT
Tremendous difference! No longer drives like my mother’s Buick!
Another good vid, as some one who has had a mk1 mx5 with coilovers in the past,yes its more planted, but and its a big but, speed bumps become a nightmare,I lived with them for 4 years and yes they where adjustable,I now have a mk 3.5 like yours and I have left it stock suspension for that reason ,but I am thinking of a new exhaust its the sound, it makes a difference,well in you head anyway keep the vids coming
Thanks so much, Gary, I really appreciate it!
And yeah I did forget to mention that in the review, it was an absolute ballache getting over speedbumps, you'd have to go one wheel up at a time and wait for traffic in the other direction to clear as it often required going on the wrong side of the road haha!
Amazing handling difference though. I filmed this back in March and have decided (for my car and where I live) to keep stock suspension. I maaay stiffen up the rollbars one day but I think it's very well judged out of the box to be fair.
They have coilovers from the factory. Sure it's a bit pedantic but accurate too. What we are talking about is introducing adjustable Coilovers to add to the already multi adjustable suspension, I'm on Ohlin R&T DFV's. Remember every height adjustment made will need a full 4 wheel gel set up so not as simple as raising/ lowering to suit any given situation. Also, wheel spacers? Never move the offset more than 15mm or you might find some strange handling, including tramlining & sudden breakaway as demonstrated at what seemed to be rather moderate speed.
Suspension first (including a more aggressive wheel alignment), 9” rims second with 235 or 245 tyres, headers and exhaust 3rd, ECU tune 4th. You then have the start of a very nice car. Then braided brake lines, upgraded brake fluid, Winmax pads, adjustable sway bars and send it on the track.
That sounds delicious!
Coilovers are usually my first mod for any car. Completely transforms a car into something else entirely. Also, coilovers are easy to install your self. Id suggest self installing to save lots of cash and then just paying for an allignment.
It is simply remarkable what a difference it makes!
I had the same dilemma.. I mostly drive in London sos suspension upgrade got the back seat. Went for a BBR super sport backbox. Puts an instant smile and didnt hurt the wallet too much.
Looking at at least springs next year and lowering bracket for the seat
I actually really like that the exhaust wasn't too loud on startup but sounds great when you get going.
I reckon get the more expensive exhaust with less drone, and maybe keep the suspension stock so the lean makes you feel like you're going faster than you are.
Fun review keep them coming!!
Thanks very much pal, and oh believe me, the microphone doesn't do it justice - it's reaaally loud haha!
I'm in agreement though that the exhaust is the way to go first. The stock suspension (where I live) is actually perfectly suited to the speed bumps and general potholes etc!
I spent $3k on beefed up sway bars and coils for my 2015 PRHT . She now drives like a proper sports car instead of like my mother’s Buick! Holds the line like a wet dream!!
It's transformative isn't it! It's hard to convey!
Those both mods are essential for MX5 ,
and really good adjustable swaybar will be even better than Rx8s . Car feels completley transformed with those modes, in a good way. It also makes great track toy for very low investment adding track pads and good brake fluid .
Definitely!
I'm very tempted by the adjustable swaybars myself, feels like the best first move for suspension without compromising comfort (the roads around me are absolute crap!)
2015 PRHT (Silver with black interior):
1). Changed manual transmission fluid to Ford Synthetic.
2). R/R front brakes with drilled and slotted rotors.
3). Since I felt that my baby drove like a Buick, I beefed up the sway bars and coils (Not willing to go in for coil-overs3!)
4). Knurled shifter knob and emergency brake handle.
You don’t want to see the two body “modifications” on the right side that I did ALL by myself! I am SO proud of my handiwork!😂
I owned a 1.6 NB about ten years ago. Test drove a 2008 1.8 yesterday that had stainless exhaust and dropped suspension - and was amazed at the difference (the car is so planted). Like you I was giggling my way down the road.
They're just brilliant aren't they, the irony that for so long they've had the reputation as 'the worst, fat MX-5' is just hilarious once you've actually driven one. I can understand where the accusation would come from if you haven't driven one but they drive so, so well!
Don’t know why the mx5 videos stopped, there are so many mx5 enthusiasts but not much up to date content. Btw I think you do a brilliant job.
I’ve come from a M2 competition and own a superbike but just getting myself an nc after a short test drive - so much fun at none prison speeds.
Hey bud!
Thank you so much for your supportive words, so glad you're enjoying the videos!
Funnily enough, I'm going to film my 2.5 year update on my MX-5 very, very soon and I'm going to a local MX-5 specialist to make a full buying guide on what to look for :)
I deliberately wanted to stay away from being a RUclipsr who just does their car over and over again, I wanted to keep the content varied - but it's definitely time to bring the MX-5 back! I've got a few more ideas too.
Thank you again and I'm glad you've seen the NC light, they're bloody brilliant fun! Have you got the M2 Comp still?
@@petrolpoodle6617 I’ll definitely be watching that!
To be fair you probably do right switching it up a little bit and appealing to a broader audience.
The M2 has gone, first a DCT and then a manual
Comp (future classic I hear). I’ve come from a world of fast bikes and the M2 just didn’t set the world on fire like I thought it would, the manual was better though. In all honesty my old fiesta st was more fun in the real world.
It’s looking like I’ll throw some mods at the mx5 and make it the best it can be i.e. manifold/remap, coilovers, geo etc.
@@Throttle.Monkey Mate that's awesome though, what a collection of motors you've had!
And absolutely, if you haven't bought an MX-5 yet, look on eBay for BBR examples of join the NC Owner's club on Facebook and mention you're looking for an MX-5 with some light BBR work. People come out of the woodwork and you'll get a car at a great price with all the best stuff done already! They're incredible platforms, truly special when a little bit of work goes into them :)
That is one stunning mx5, might get some of these mods once I've rust protected it!
As to swaybars. I run ohlins shocks and run yellow rx8 sway bar on the front with stock on rear. Tried rx8 yellow on rear but started to push the back around. The rx8 front was an improvement over the stock bar.
That's fascinating, I'll have to give those a go, I'm really curious to see how much of a difference it makes. My car sadly can't have anything but a stock alignment after the accident last year (someone drove into my front right wheel). So I'd love to modify the handling to sharpen it back up to how it was on the fast-road setup.
What do you reckon my best bet is? Front rollbar and go from there?
@@petrolpoodle6617 the front would be the best bet. The rear was a downgrade imo, which is why i swapped back to standard. There are three different stiffness ratings available ,red ,orange and yellow in that order from memory. Many guys opt for the red as i think it is the stiffest ,but i suspect it is mainly in cars without quality coilovers as the yellow ones i have firmed the car immensely. My thoughts at the time when i did this were that the reds would be too firm and start to reduce suspension compliance. The suspension is so good in these cars that tieing the two sides together too hard starts to affect it. The bridge to gantry guy that has that superquick time on the nurburging doesnt run a rear sway bar at all if i remember although im pretty sure his spring rates will be quite high.
Do you know the dimensions of the the bars ?
@@chrissikora3359 cant remember offhand ,they are quite a bit fatter than the original mx5 ones so will need the bigger bushings that they use ,maybe 6mm or so larger diameter. I went to a place where you can strip wrecked cars and grabbed the bushes as well. The bushes are fairly cheap new just have to buy the rx8 ones
I saved up years to do a project so this is a bit unfair because most people don't have 10K lying around but, the first thing I did was the BBR stage two turbo conversion and Yellow Speed coilovers. It's a complete animal. 300 at the fly and 270 to the wheels and it was worth every penny.
I'm about to review a BBR200 funnily enough and I'm extremely excited!
@@petrolpoodle6617 BBR do great work. I think you'll be impressed with their tuning. keep up the great work man.
Your video has hit on a dilemma for maybe all new NC owners. Very helpful discussion no question. Personally I will start with upgraded stiff swaybars, front and rear but less aggressive rear, then a Roadster Sport Super Q. Coilovers maybe after considerable driving with this set up. Your video was very helpful. Thank you.
Thank you so much Greg, I'm really glad it's been helpful!
I think you've hit the nail on the head with what to do, especially given the low cost of doing ARBs and the fact that they don't compromise comfort or noise either.
It sounds like you'll have the ideal MX-5 in no time!
Got the 1.8 version for my first car and can't dream of insuring modifications yet, but I'm in that same situation of; it has 88k miles on it, who knows how long I'll have it, and an obviously small budget, will definitely be considering that exhaust... when the insurance will allow it lmao
My advice is if it's your first car and you love it, don't worry too much about modding it very far and losing that money - they're epic stock and given that it's your first car you'll likely buy your second sooner than you think anyway! Enjoy it!
Awesome video! I am planning to buy my first MX5 (2013) next year, so looking into what to do first. The ISR Performance Exhaust is now £264 inc VAT!
Thanks, Garry!
I would say that you definitely want to invest in an exhaust that lets you enjoy it on any journey and not feel fed up with drone. But certainly one that ramps up the excitement factor too!
@@petrolpoodle6617 thanks for replying! Since my previous comment I have also decided to invest in installing ITBs. Paired with a decent exhaust will sound incredible!
@@gazza2004 that'll be absolutely nuts!!! You'll love it!!!
I went through this over the last few months. I was then fortunate to be able to both. I went for Meister’s, and the racingbeats super ‘q’
If I had to choose 1, I’d go suspension every time. Improves the car no end. I was also worried about it being to hard, ride is also better than before (which was unexpected).
Exhaust is great mind😉. The super “q” is a great choice if you want something more subtle and you can swap the baffles to alter how loud it is, it’s expensive mind.
Amazing mate, thanks for sharing!
It's hard to describe how much of a difference those coilovers make isn't it! It really is a whole new car.
I can't wait to source a new exhaust at some point, I'll investigate that one for sure!
@@petrolpoodle6617 I was skeptical about the whole lowering and coilovers, I did lowering springs on a Nova SRi (im a good bit older than you) back in the day. Hateful is the only way to describe it after it was done, hard as rock. You could go round a smooth corner faster, but you couldnt drive down a road that wasn’t race track smooth without needing dental work after.
Coilovers seem like magic to me, lower and stiffer, as expected, but somehow much better on rougher roads, over pot holes etc, doesn’t seem possible. Handling transformed.
BBR200 kit next.
@@johngriffiths2881 this really made me laugh!
Couldn't agree more, I'm going to skip lowering springs and just save up in the future I think.
I currently live on terrible roads though so I'm actually quite grateful of the standard setup at this moment thankfully.
It'll come one day for sure!
I went with light FM Kogeki wheels, light lug nuts, and MisterR coilovers. I am still undecided on the exhaust, as mine one is a daily driver as well.
Sounds like you've got a right setup there! I'd say it's worth saving the money up and getting a BBR backbox or something popular with the owners that doesn't drone at motorway speeds. Having heard what it can sound like, I know it needs a little more pep now. Mine is now my weekender so I'm all the more tempted!
@@petrolpoodle6617 Previously I've owned two Subaru WRX[s] with turboback exhaust[SPT & Perrin], tuning[COBB], and mild suspension Whiteline mods. I will always love the thunderous sound of unequal lengths headers becoming alive around 2750rpm. This time around I am focusing on lightness and agility. If I ever change the NC2's exhaust, it must be for one that is lighter, and improves exhaust gasses flow. I can't find a BBR backbox for the NC2 at this time, but I'll continue to look for the lightest, best flowing one I can find. I really want a good exhaust note, that is not overly loud. The PRHT MX-5's cockpit is so tiny, any sound is hugely amplified. I loved my WRX, but I adore my MX-5. Cheers to you sir, and enjoy your ride!
@@vlenhoff I absolutely love WRXs and STIs, I grew up in the 90s with my dad having one of the first 1995 WRX's in the country and a Grey Import JDM Impreza STI Version V. It was amazing, 4.6 to 60 in 1998! He later got an 05 in 2010, so I've been a huge fan of that noise my entire life!
I still yearn for that proper Subaru experience at some point, I did throw a 97 WRX around an experience day rally track and it was hilarious fun but an incredibly shagged example. How's your experience been?
And it sounds like you and I are on the same page re: the MX-5 exhaust, but you know what you're talking about a bit more! If you find the dream answer, let me know!
Happy motoring to you too, good sir!
Great bit of road you are on there down near Rye. I'm due to view a NC today and will be looking at doing some of these mods. I've been really enjoying your videos.
Hey Jason,
Sorry for the slow reply, I accidentally missed this one! I really appreciate it, thanks for watching more than one! Did you get the NC in the end? If so, how's it been for you?
@@petrolpoodle6617 No worries, no doubt you are a busy man. Bought a 2 litre sport in blue and have already completed the seat lowering, which has made a huge difference. I've also changed the brakes and some broken interior parts. I love it I had a first generation many years ago but it was literally ran over by a transit van! Looking forward to future videos. 👍
@@jasonobee8065 Brilliant mate! That's awesome! If you haven't already, getting a specialist to do a fast road alignment will transform the car and not even count as a modification, easiest win ever! Glad you're loving it and thanks for subbing and coming along pal!
Nice video, keep them coming 👍🏻 MX-5AVAGE & 2.5 TANGO 🧡
Thanks very much mate!
Beautiful ride. Love it
I have a BBR super 185 GT backbox and tune on mine, I think that's the best everyday exhaust, plenty of bark but no drone at all!! My plan is a set of coilovers that I can set higher than my 30mm lowering springs as I scrape in a lot of places 😅.
Thanks so much, Quimister, I think that's the way forward! Was the backbox very much? I'm guessing £450-550?
@@petrolpoodle6617 was 595 with vat included so pretty pricey. But I rate it. Best choice I've made for the car so far.
I like keeping the stock muffler, less tickets.
You didn't mention tyres...They can make a big difference. I had 40's & they were a bit too thin for road use. Had to get new coilovers to lift mine coz previous owner had dropped it too far & exhaust had already been done too. Overall, most fun car I have ever owned (NB) Going to get NC next time for sure.
Very true, I'm going to do an upcoming video on my most recommended mods and as mod '0' instead of mod number 1 I'm going to mention tyres as they're the first and most important thing to tick off before starting, for sure! And of course, alignment!
You should bring your MX5 to us 😊
I'd love to have! I have sadly parted ways with it but thank you for the invite!
Exhaust was my first mod.
Oooo which one did you go for and how have you found it?
@@petrolpoodle6617 9 years and it still rumbles. In a good way.
I NEEEEEEEEED to do this so so so bad
It makes a mega difference! I'd say if your roads near you are of decent quality (i.e no potholes, inconsistent surfaces and you don't really deal with speedbumps) I'd look at suspension only then.
I've decided (given where I live) that I'm actually happy with stock suspension and it does a great job for daily duties. It's the exhaust that's gotta be upgraded!
Great video
Thank you so much!
I'm have a Honda Accord from 2013 2.0petrol and I'm 1.87cm tall and 95kg commuting 100km daily. I don't know if I will fit or be comfortable. At least half of my Accords confort I will be happy. What do you think?
Oooooo that's a tough one! With the seats lowered it helps but I think you could be juuuuust too tight in there my friend. But, please do go and test drive one with the roof up and see how you get on. They're brilliant, brilliant fun and a joy to own.
There are owners who are 6ft 3 (probably your height) but it depends on how much of that is their legs. And I've had a couple of friends at that height sit in the car with their heads touching the roof or juuust getting away with it after the seat drop. See how you get on ☺
Does anyone know what front bumper is on the white MX5 ?
Can you link the ducktail spoiler of the white nc?
The whites nc spoiler what is it?
Anyone know where he got his diffuser from?
So, it would be good to know which exhaust gives you the best of both worlds.....Cobra's seem popular, but not keen on the noise.....needs more rasp, less boy racer
. Thoughts?
"We have Jack Harlow at home"
*Jack Harlow at home*
😂 😂 😂 😂 I didn't get it until I Googled hahahaha that's amazing!
I have a little Japanese girl friend I named Emiko she is an Mazda mx5 NC.😆
£400 to fit the coilovers?? I've never done it, but I've always got the impression that it is a fairly simple bolt in DIY job.
Hey Stan,
I believe that was including an entire hunter laser alignment after (which is anywhere between £80 and £150 depending on who you go to), so there's that to factor. You could do the swap yourself at home and then get it properly aligned after to bring that cost down. Amazing difference though!
@@petrolpoodle6617 Ah I see. Thanks for the reply.
@@standandeliver8376 no problem pal, sorry it took a few days!
Hey, can you tell us the reference of your back becquet ? Where did you buy it ?
Hey Nicolas,
I'll ask the owner and get back to you now :)
Do you need a tune for a back box delete?
That's a great question but sadly one I'm not *certain* of the answer. I suspect not but an MX-5 specialist would be the best place to ask!
Suspension and alignment first on the Mk3....
They were horrifically set up from the factory!
True that! My fast road setup was amazing! Alignment is the easiest win!
What exhaust is on this car? It’s the best sound and what im looking for thank you
I think I show a screenshot of the name and price at the beginning my friend. Have a look back :). It's super loud though so if you're a regular motorway driver I'd think carefully. Otherwise it absolutely cracked me up and made the car so much fun!
Did you get one
What year is your car?
:)
what happened at @2:50? Brake bias issue?
It wasn't a brake bias issue thankfully, it was the fact that I didn't know it was the crest of a hill right there, so the wheels half lost contact with the road and then when the weight landed down again it caused the back to wiggle! Hahaha
The car was otherwise perfectly setup, just not driven perfectly...
Suspension bias then
Hi what spoiler is this? Can I get a link?
Hey Mat,
From memory the owner replied to some of the earliest comments answering this. I think it was from Carbonmiata but have a look to be sure :)
Gonna look to buy a NC MX-5 in October! Check on me in October and I'll give ya an update..
That's awesome mate! Let me know how you get on!
@@petrolpoodle6617 Just arrived home about 10 minutes ago with my new (to me) 2015 Mazda MX-5 Miata with 145k miles. It has the power retractable hard top and a manual transmission. It needs some body work, but is mechanically good. I got it for only 9000 US dollars!!!!
@@Chiimp I'm so pleased to hear!!! That's brilliant, I love that 2015 final run too! Huge congratulations and thank you for updating me, let alone minutes after getting back!
Happy motoring my friend!
@@petrolpoodle6617 Thank you so much!!!!!!!!!!!!!
@@petrolpoodle6617 Still got it. Beauty of a car. I got about 160k miles on it now and it has some coilovers and wheels. I plan on modding it to be my little track car now that I got adult money😂. Love this car!!
Where did he get his diffuser?
Sorry for the slow reply, William -
"Rear Diffuser (Single Exhaust Cutout) For Miata NC/MK3" - Carbonmiata.com
what kind of spacers is Ayrton using?
Genius!
Sorry it glitched and gave you a different reply from the comment above 😂 😂 😂 That seemed horrible!
I called Ayrton and whilst he can't remember or find the name in his emails he said that they were 20mm hubcentric spacers and just worth spending a little money on. I recall he spent about £200 on them
@@petrolpoodle6617Do you have a link for these spacers by any chance? Thanks for the great video btw.. Quickest way for me to justify spending money on my first upgrade! 😂 Gonna go with coilovers.
4:32... stop steering like that
I don't usually to be fair, I think my brain was having a hiccup whilst presenting to camera.
But many thanks for the criticism anyway, hope enjoyed the rest of the video
@@petrolpoodle6617 I absolutely loved it, yes! I just want you to keep your fingers ;-)
@@jaspervos4345 thanks very much pal, glad you enjoyed it! And you're not wrong, it was some poor driving at that moment 😂
Hello what year is this mx5 ?
My one is 2009 (but the face-lift) and the white one is 2012 pre the next face lift I believe. His has aftermarket bodykit bits though
@@petrolpoodle6617 it's very nice 👍 thanks
Colum
That's right, though I'm sure it used to have an n?
The drug dealer gave the first one free...and now we have an addict. :)
Yep, it was like a smack of free heroin hahaaha!
That exhaust sound is obnoxious
Can't debate that in the slightest 😂 it really made me laugh though! I'd definitely buy something halfway
Did he say £170 for a set of BC coilovers😂, I wish they were
I think it was £170 for the rear exhaust muffle delete (or whatever the part was). I know the coilovers are much closer to £1000 haha
A question Mazda must have spent millions developing the MX5 ,Surely they know best .
A good question! I think they know best about finding the true balance of a super comfortable daily car that can also be enjoyed on track - true! A car that keeps retired couples happy who just want to enjoy the roof down but also car enthusiasts throwing it around.
However, the car has sooo much more potential if you happen to want to dial the experience up - and it's honestly astonishing how well it drives after modifications.