Miata Mailing List: April 1994, Message #193
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   From: Doug Hagerman 
Subject: top speed
   Date: Mon, 11 Apr 1994 11:07:23 -0400

Keep in mind that both the tachometer AND the speedometer may not be
exactly right, not to mention the rev limiter. The only way to find out
how fast you're going if you don't have calibrated instruments is to
time a measured distance with an accurate clock. I wouldn't count on a
cop's radar, either: What does he care if you're going 120 vs. 125 in a 50 mph zone?

The odometer shouldn't have any meaningful error, though, so if you
time yourself over some distance measured that way it should be pretty accurate.

I would also expect a substantial car-to-car difference in top speed.
Ignition timing, accidental variations in the intake manifold, and
minor fuel injection adjustments could translate into a 10 mph difference.

But frankly, I don't really care anyway. The Miata is a terrific car
for winding country roads at 50 mph; if you want top speed buy an rx7,
or a Mustang (gag)!

Doug.