John:
To compare Roadster's and Miata's, you must put each one in perspective of
the timeline they were developed. 25 years ago, the Roadster's were
plentiful, cheap, looked down on most of the time, had a fairly poor
reputation for dependability, and could be purchased for $800-900 dollars
(including 2000's). My first Roadster, a 68 1600, was bought in 1975, ran
great after replacing the head gasket, already had a completely faded
original silver paint job, and did not raise an eyebrow anywhere except at
the parts store. Yes, it was fun, and worth every penny, but the quality of a
Miata is far superior to a Roadster in every aspect except the fun factor,
and being able to work on the car. Give the Miata another 25 years, and I
believe the owners that keep their cars now will be extremely happy with them
then, and will view them then the same way we view our Roadster's now.
Dan & Susan
Multiple Roadster's and 240's
<< Subj: Re: Roadster Comments??
Date: 00-03-23 22:08:09 EST
From: jfried@anv.net (J Friederich)
Sender: owner-datsun-roadsters@autox.team.net
Reply-to: jfried@anv.net (J Friederich)
To: andrew.murphy@integtech.com (Andrew Murphy),
datsun-roadsters@autox.team.net
Interesting comment, since I own both a '94 Miata (well, wife's really) and
a '69 2000 Solex. I had Keith Williams (infamous Roadster guy here in Las
Vegas) drive the Miata along side the 2L from a few standing stops. The
results were a dead heat. In twisties I suspect the results would be much
the same - a dead heat. Of course, the Miata is a bit more comfortable, but
gets no looks on the road, like you say. It is difficult to drive the
Datsun anywhere without getting comments just stopping at a 7-11 for a
6pack, or getting gas. I think it is amazing that the Datsun can keep up,
considering the age...
-John F.
'69 2000 Solex
'94 Miata (blue)
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