The Miata is the most road raced car in the world... Something tells me the aftermarket support is better than it is with the GTI...
The Miata is so beautifully balanced, I'd think a V8 conversion would change that a bit. My choice for more Miata power would be a supercharger. Love the whine....
Boy this is a great question. I would take the Miata. I have owned a 1983 and 1984 GTI. Both were great cars, simple to work on, and parts are still available and cheap. However, I would go for the Miata. I live whether the weather is mild and I do not need back seats. I would have to modify the Miata.
Aaaand the GTI wins. It was a good fight, but the margin was significant. I have to say I'm a little surprised, too. They are both great cars in their own right: I had two GTIs, and my dad had an early Miata. I think it was Crashton betraying his own car and voting for the GTI which set the tone. Crashton: beware of your Miata taking revenge and actually breaking--something they never do... Okay, bloodied, but not down, the GTI has another challenging foe ahead: and here it is: Would you rather... ...or...
that's an early-80's BMW 635csi (E24 Chassis). 3.5 liter straight six, 215 HP, Rear wheel drive, two-door coupe.
Parts for an NA Miata aren't very expensive. There is a growth industry in parting out wrecks. Lots of Miatas being parted out so there is a plentiful supply of cheap used parts. I'd think that the GTI may be harder to get parts for, they are 6 years older than the oldest Miata & many have been run to death & tossed aside. Having driven a few roadsters in winter I'm staying with the GTI as a 365 daily driver. Edit missed the fact the GTI won. The Miata has finally reached classic car status. What's that mean you ask? Well they do indeed break down. Couple of friends went out for an early morning romp to a breakfast place. Two old Sprites & one NA Miata, well the Miata went home on the flatbed after its plastic rad tank went kablammo. :wink: The Sprites had no problems. The difference is the idea that Miatas don't break. If one doesn't do their due diligence they will break, & then the Sprite owners will be laughing their arses off at ya. (Not my broken Miata) I'm still with the GTI, but will do a most thorough pre-flight come spring. I'd rather drive that big beautiful BMW, but I'd rather own that GTI.
Having never driven the BMW I can only guess that it would nice BUT I also guess that it would be very expensive to repair. Given the GTI is front wheel drive would make it a better all weather daily driver that is much easier to repair when and if needed so once again I'll choose the VW.
The 635 is a nice car, but it is a car that can't decide what it is......Luxo-cruiser or sports car. Still would go with the GTI.
Or "Bring More Women" you guys have to stop looking at the repair cost and look at which car looks cool and will get you laid. :ihih: A GTI ? I don't think so. :lol: