Miata Mailing List: December 1996, Message #182
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   From: (none)

Subject: Re: First Impressions

   Date: (none)



Gregory G. Germar, MD wrote:

> 

> Hi guys,

> 

> I finally went ahead and got a Miata!  you guys were a big factor in

> the decision, but the car itself clinched it.  It's great!

> 

> OK, it's a base 1996 model BRG (although they called it "Malachite

> Green"???).  It's the only model offered here in the Philippines, and

> a lot of options vary with your models.

> 

> The hardtop is standard (well, we do need it over here)

> A/C is standard

> Power windows are standard

> a cigarette lighter is standard (yahoo.)

> the gauges are the same, but with no chrome trim

> Speedometer is in kilometers per hour (Allan eat your heart out ;-))

> Alloy mags are standard (14")

> 

> Three is NO central lock

> There is NO remote trunk opener

> The antenna is SCREWED on???  Weird!  I have to screw it off when I

> leave the car???

> side mirrors are manually adjusted

> There is absolutely NO chrome anything inside!

> Steering wheel is MOMO with air bag, and really small horn buttons;

> passenger air bag is also present

> 

> The stereo is made by Clarion, well it sounds OK, needs a sub and

> an amp though

> 

> Well enough of that!  The FEEL of driving it is a lot different, like

> the short shifting, really nice.  It's very maneuverable, but not

> really powerful ;-( probably because its only the 90 hp engine.

> 

> I was really worried about how the body styling is almost a decade

> old, but when I saw it... well, you guys understand...:-)

> 

> OK, modifications are already swimming in my mind...

> 

> First, a CD changer--well, where can I mount it where it uses the

> least space?  ALso an amp and a sub, probably a Bazooka.

> 

> Second, an alarm/central lock/remote lid opener?  Any suggestions?

> I'm considering a Clifford Intelliguard 700, any comments?

> 

> Third, a power antenna (!)  This should have been standard anyway,

> IMHO.  So I guess the stock Mazda antenna is best?

> 

> I guess that's all for now.  It's amazing how many stares the car

> (and I) get!  Unbelievable.

> 

> Enough!  Gotta drive around again ;-)

> 

> Later guys, thanks again!

> 

> Greg

> 

> Gregory G. Germar, MD

> UP-PGH Department of Ophthalmology

> ggermar@i-manila.com.ph





Welcome to Miatadom.  I'm sure you'll become obsessed with it as many of

us have.



Re: the CD player...I added the stock Miata (made by Panasonic) to the

space available just above the stock radio/cassette player.  very happy

with it.  For speakers, I replaced all with the Clearwaters and also

their amplifier.  I'm told you can get better for less, but the

Clearwaters are designed for the Miata so the install is a snap...all

cables are merely snap-in place.



Antennas?  Mine came with the power antenna, so can only recommend the

stock Miata version...works fine.



Alarm System.  Had an aftermarket version installed, primarily for the

sensor that detects any motion within the cabin when the top is down. 

This surprises anyone who just sticks their hands inside.



Good luck and happy motoring.



Any problems, just post it.  Many helpful and knowledgeable folks here

on the list.



Dave

-- 

Dave Okamoto

LSI Logic Corporation

mailto:davo@lsil.com