Miata Edoga asked:

Given what is going on in the financial world, I wanted to remark, as I believe all of us as taxpayers, let alone business owners, need to actively participate in this conversion before we all get stuck with something that could cause us problems for years to come.

So, for what it is of value, here are my thoughts on the bailout. Firstly, I believe it is basic. There are a number of good, free market, Darwinesque arguments against it, but, on stabilize, I believe that it should be passed for the greater good of both the US, and the world, economy. This, notwithstanding, should only happen supplied certain stringent conditions are attached. These are below:

1 - Tax payer fairness ownership in the companies bailed out. Ie, we all become inventory owners in the companies that are rescued under the plan. This to me is fundamental free market common sense investing, as it means that we will all benefit over the coming 5 - 15 years as these companies recover and prosper.

2 - Independent regulation and oversight. As has been seen time and again, the idea of any industry “self regulating” is ludicrous, because they simply don’t do it. So, independent, bi-partisan regulation group, here we come.

3 - Golden parachute / income caps. Apparently those senior execs departing the company should not be allowed to walk away with million dollar severance packages. Notwithstanding, we do need to reward the incoming execs in such a way as to make them work as tough as possible to make our new companies (supplied #1 has occurred) profitable. To me this looks like fair salaries plus highly lucrative deferred inventory options - the kind they can’t exercise for 5 plus years (I have no quandary with someone earning $20 million if they have turned a insolvent company into one generate billions a year… I just have a predicament with the ones who bankrupted it earning that).

4 - Mortgage relief for homeowners. Some kind of system needs to be put in spot to help people stay in their homes (such as lowering their monthly payments but extending the duration of the mortgage), as the trickle down effect of mass evictions / re-possessions cannot be calculated (plus, from the banks perspective, better to have some money coming in than a house sitting blank and unsold over the long term). Notwithstanding, I do not agree with extending this philosophy to steady consumer debt (automobiles, credit cards etc) - that’s what debt plans are for.

So, like I say, my opinions, for what they are of value. I present them not because I am in any way an expert, but because, as I stated earlier, I believe this is a discussion and decision that will effect us all for decades to come, and we all need to take responsibility for getting our voices heard. I would welcome any thoughts or statements, and await the ultimate plan with baited breath.

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Margaret Adams asked:

‘Chick vehicle’ - that was the coined name for Mazda MX-5 Miata. The term means a car intended for women. Another reason is that most Miata owners are women. Notwithstanding, the most doable reason is the vehicle’s grace, style and sophistication. These factors are the reasons why Miata made it titanic in the auto industry.

The third generation of Miata was produced last year. Though Miata appears closely similar to its predecessor, the third generation shares no components with the preceding generation apart from for the side-panel turning-lights incorporated to automobiles made available for the European market. Additionally, OEM and aftermarket Mazda Miata parts are enhanced and upgraded to perform and look better. The 4-wheel double wishbone setup of the suspension is altered to pave way for a more strong front wishbone/rear multilink setup. To improve driveabiity, traction and stability controls were added.

The automaker enhanced the exterior of the car by utilizing brawny yet clean profile. For the United States and Australia, the engine used by Miata was the new 16-valve, 2.0-litre MZR I4, generating 170 horsepower and 140 ftlbf of torque. It is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission for better car performance. For Europe Miatas, the automaker offered 2 engines - 2.0-litre MZR that produces 160 horsepower and 188 Nm of torque; and a new 1.8 MZR, generating 126 horsepower and 167 Nm, torque. The latter is coupled to a 5-speed manual transmission.

Last July, Mazda unleashed a coupe convertible version of the Miata. Further, included in the brand new Mazda Miata body parts is the 3-part folding hardtop. Said new feature added 37 kilograms to the weight of the car nonetheless; it is deemed a ‘wow factor’ of Miata. It only takes 11 seconds to function the retractable hardtop and it does not seize too much trunk space so loading capabilities of the vehicle is not compromised.

Mazda Miata is an icon in the affordable drop-top class. Since its introduction in 1989, Miata has established a long-running success. Up until now, the automobile is still a mammoth hit in the auto industry. Aside from a new engine, Miata was also given bigger wheels, and other cutting-margin auto parts.

Miata is also called MX-5, which is macho-sounding. It is way distant from the traditional ‘chick vehicle’ stigma attached to Miata. in addition, its new package offers more thrill and escapades, wonderful torque, and superb road feel. Indeed, it can pull more testosterone.

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geoff asked:

I am thinking about buying a third generation miata. What do you think? Do you have any recommendations, like is it of value getting the tough top, is there much of a dissimilarity between the 6-speed and 5-speed transmissions?? Also do you know if there are any differences between the 2008 and 2007 models?

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Oxygen-Bar Tender asked:


I like this new generation Miata…..but some call it a ***** automobile or a *** automobile

Miata MX-5 World