Miata Mailing List: February 1995, Message #84
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   From: Dale Kirstein 
Subject: Re: MR2 vs. Miata
   Date: Thu, 2 Feb 1995 01:52:06 -0500



OK, lurk mode off:


There are 3 cars in the home stable: 
90 Corrado
91 MR2 (Normally aspirated)
92 Miata. 

I've autocrossed all 3, although since the MR2 isn't mine, I'm, not as
familiar with it. The MR2 and the Miata can probably run similar times on
most courses, but they specialise in different things. 

The Mr2 has better grunt off the line and out of turns. The engine is VERY
smooth, and just pulls all the way to redline, so theres alot less need to
downshift out of turns. Handling is better that most sports cars, but it
sure likes to spin when you screw up. (Even national champs like Kevin
Bailey will spin their MR2 Turbos now more than you'd expect) They feel a
bit less "connected" to the road than the Miata, a bit bigger and
heavier, although the chassis feels a little stiffer, with less shake. 

The Miata (my autocross ride) doesn't have as much pull off the line, but
boy does it handle! Turn in is much crisper than the MR2, and I beleive
with sticky tires on both cars (not the Brickstones) the Miata can go
deeper into turns and exit faster. The Miata also feels more connected to
the road, and  communicates better to the driver. The Miata is much more
forgiving than the MR2, and you really have to screw up to spin one. 

Over all, the're both great sports cars, but the Miata is one click better
than the MR2 in handling, predictability, and fun. The MR2 has a better
engine, and more trunk space!

Oh... the Corrado...thats another story entirely :)


Dale Kirstein


P.S. Here in Denver, I'm still driving with the top down! This  could be a
full 12 month top down year!