Miata Mailing List: January 1994, Message #87
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   From: "Michael Butler" 
Subject: Re: What exactly is the R model?
   Date: Tue, 11 Jan 1994 13:44:51 -0500

>boyle@cactus.org (Craig Boyle) writes:
>> I must be missing something. In skimming over Miata R
>> spec's a while back the only useful thing (from an autox)
>> perspective was stiffer springs over a stock Miata.
>>
>> The shocks are free in stock, you can get the LSD though other options.
>> I don't want the wing, go-faster stripes etc.
>
>> Isn't it going to be cheaper to put a LSD in a base Miata than to buy
>> the R model? Especially assuming that the Bilsteins would immediately
>> be dumped in favor of adjustable shocks?

Alan Dahl  responds:
>
>But, of course, you can't put a LSD in a base model and remain in stock since
>base models are not available with LSDs in '94. Remember, you can't mix and
>match options that are only available in packages.
>
>The $1500 premium for the R model looks a little better if you consider that
>it
>includes the alloy wheels, which are probably $500-$600 all by themselves, and
>if you sell the Bilsteins to someone else. But, you're right, the package is
>more aimed at road racers than auto-xers.

As Alan says, to be legal, you would have to *completely* convert the base
model to an "R" package.  I don't think you want to do this.  Just the Torsen
alone (which is not an option on the base package) will cost you $1500 if
you buy it from the parts department.  Then there's all those bushings that
are slightly different (and the rear springs and sway bar).

If you don't want the "R" package, getting the "A" package instead may make
sense.  The "A" package includes the Torsen (assuming you get the 5 speed)
and the alloys inaddition to power mirrors, power steering, and leather
wheel.  Of course, it costs more than the "R" package. :-)

BTW, the stripes on the LA Auto Show Miata "R" aren't part of the package.

Michael Butler