Enthusiasts Start With A Mazda Miata and End With A Porsche 911
About this episode
A lively discussion unfolds around the Mazda Miata, hailed as the quintessential starter sports car. The hosts share personal experiences, emphasizing its reliability, affordability, and engaging driving dynamics. They debate the merits of various Miata generations, particularly the NA and NB, while also touching on the evolution of the Porsche 911, specifically the 996 model. The conversation highlights how the Miata serves as a gateway for enthusiasts, leading them to higher performance vehicles like the 911, all while maintaining its charm and accessibility.
We’re back after Thanksgiving break to talk about the car that is always the answer; the Mazda Miata. The GM Guru Justin returns to tell us about his new purchase. Christian shares his experience with his NB Miata. Mainstay Dylan discusses the latest car for sale on @analogandgritmarketplace; a Chevy SSR. I discuss why the Porchse 911 is the holy grail of enthusiast spec cars. How the Porsche 996 911’s are on the verge of jumping in value thanks to recent Doug Demuro and Jason Cammisa videos.
Mazda Miata
"...we're going to talk about the Mazda Miata. Have you heard of her? Is Miata always the answer? We've talked about it in the past on this podcast..."
The Mazda Miata is a small sports car that seats two people. It's popular because it's fun to drive and not too expensive, making it a favorite among car lovers.
The Mazda Miata is a lightweight two-seater sports car known for its agile handling and fun driving experience. It has a strong enthusiast following and is often praised for its affordability and reliability.
coilovers
"It's got some coilovers on it that ride pretty good. Drives well."
Coilovers are special parts of a car's suspension that help improve how it rides and handles on the road. They can be adjusted to change how high or low the car sits, which can make it perform better.
Coilovers are a type of suspension system that combines a coil spring and shock absorber into a single unit. They allow for adjustable ride height and improved handling characteristics, making them popular in performance and modified vehicles.
roll bar
"Has a roll bar already. This honestly doesn't really do anything besides some paint work and a little bit of TLC."
A roll bar is a metal bar inside a car that helps keep it safe if it rolls over. It makes the car stronger and protects the people inside during accidents.
A roll bar is a safety feature in vehicles, typically a metal bar or frame that provides structural support and protection in the event of a rollover. It helps to keep the cabin intact and protect occupants during accidents.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
"...like the thing with the Miata, I feel like it was the first car in Gran Turismo. You know, like it's like your first car."
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a small, two-door sports car that's fun to drive and not too expensive. It's often a favorite for new drivers who want a sporty experience.
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a lightweight two-seat roadster known for its fun-to-drive nature and affordability. It's often celebrated as an entry-level sports car, making it popular among driving enthusiasts.
RPM
"So like on the freeway, I'm at like 70 to 4,000 RPM. But it still has quite a bit of range left."
RPM means how fast the engine is spinning. When the number is high, it usually means the car is going faster or working harder.
RPM stands for revolutions per minute, a measure of how many times the engine's crankshaft makes a full rotation every minute. Higher RPMs generally indicate that the engine is working harder and producing more power.
power band
"Power band is like 4,500 on that car. And then it red lines at 7,200."
The power band is the part of the engine's speed where it works best and gives the most power. If you drive in this range, the car will perform better.
The power band refers to the engine speed range (measured in RPM) where the engine produces its maximum power and torque. Staying within this range allows for optimal performance and acceleration.
red line
"And then it red lines at 7,200. And you can red line it all day long."
The red line is the highest point on the RPM gauge that shows how fast the engine can safely go. Going past this point can hurt the engine.
The red line is the maximum engine speed indicated on the tachometer, beyond which the engine should not be operated to avoid damage. It represents the upper limit of the engine's RPM range.
water pump
"...because I know, like Justin said, like I'm going to have to replace water pump, like flush the radiator,..."
The water pump helps keep the engine cool by moving coolant around. If a car hasn't been driven much, this part can wear out and might need to be replaced.
A water pump is a crucial component in an engine's cooling system, responsible for circulating coolant to maintain optimal operating temperatures. If a vehicle has low mileage and hasn't been driven regularly, the water pump can deteriorate due to lack of use, leading to potential failures.
radiator
"...like flush the radiator,..."
The radiator helps cool down the engine by letting heat escape from the coolant. If a car isn't driven often, the radiator might need maintenance or flushing to work properly.
The radiator is a key part of the vehicle's cooling system that dissipates heat from the engine coolant. It plays a vital role in preventing the engine from overheating, especially during regular driving conditions.
gasket seals
"...like all the, like the gasket seals, they're going to go bad."
Gasket seals are like rubber rings that keep different parts of the engine from leaking fluids. If a car sits too long, these seals can wear out and need to be replaced.
Gasket seals are used to prevent leaks between engine components. Over time, especially in vehicles that are not regularly driven, these seals can degrade, leading to potential leaks and requiring replacement.
NA, NB
"Well, kind of, because it's also NB1, NB2. There's NB1, 2, and 3 now, I think? The body style is the NA, which is the first gen, and B second gen, and so on."
NA and NB are codes used to describe different versions of the Mazda Miata. They help people know which version of the car they are talking about, as each version has its own unique features.
NA and NB are designations for the first and second generations of the Mazda Miata, respectively. These codes help enthusiasts identify the specific model and its features, as each generation has distinct characteristics and improvements.
six-speed
"What's a six-speed? Why is yours a six-speed? Honestly, I think it's like a special edition thing."
A six-speed is a type of car transmission that has six different settings for driving. It helps the car go faster or save fuel depending on how you drive.
A six-speed refers to a manual or automatic transmission that has six forward gears. This allows for better performance and fuel efficiency by providing a wider range of gear ratios compared to transmissions with fewer gears.
Nardi package
"So a special edition, and it came with a Nardi package. So like steering wheel, shift knob, e-brake."
The Nardi package is a set of fancy interior parts for cars, like the steering wheel and gear shifter, that are made from nice materials like wood.
The Nardi package typically includes high-quality interior components like a steering wheel, shift knob, and e-brake handle, often made from premium materials like wood.
engine code
"It's a VP4W, too. That's the engine code for that one."
An engine code is like a name tag for a car's engine. It tells you what kind of engine it is and can help you find out more about how it works.
An engine code is a specific alphanumeric designation that identifies the type of engine in a vehicle. It can provide information about the engine's specifications, such as its displacement, configuration, and performance characteristics.
horsepower
"Making like, I think it was 110 horsepower or something like that. It's still fine. I've driven one. They're pretty good."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. The more horsepower an engine has, the faster and more powerful the car can be.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement used to quantify the power output of an engine. In automotive terms, it indicates how much work an engine can perform over time, which directly affects a vehicle's performance and acceleration.
NB
"When you drive the NB with your 1.8 and you go into a 1 NA with a 1.6,"
NB is the name for the second version of the Mazda MX-5 Miata, which came out after the first version. It had some improvements in style and performance.
The 'NB' refers to the second generation of the Mazda MX-5 Miata, produced from 1998 to 2005. This generation featured updates in design, performance, and technology compared to the original 'NA' model.
NA
"...you go into a 1 NA with a 1.6,"
NA is the name for the first version of the Mazda MX-5 Miata, which was made from 1989 to 1997. It is loved for its light weight and fun driving experience.
The 'NA' refers to the first generation of the Mazda MX-5 Miata, produced from 1989 to 1997. It is known for its classic design and lightweight construction, which contributed to its popularity among sports car enthusiasts.
R12 refrigerant
"The other one had like the R12 refrigerant, which kind of sucked. Yeah, because it's pre-1995."
R12 is a type of coolant used in car air conditioning systems. It's no longer used because it can harm the environment, so newer cars use different types of coolant.
R12 refrigerant, also known as dichlorodifluoromethane, was commonly used in automotive air conditioning systems before being phased out due to environmental concerns. It has been replaced by R134a and other more eco-friendly refrigerants.
NA and NB Miata
"NA's is very hard to find a non-cracked dash versus the NB's, they take a beating."
NA and NB are names for different versions of the Mazda Miata, a popular sports car. The NA is the first version, and the NB is the second, which has some updates and improvements.
The NA and NB refer to the first two generations of the Mazda MX-5 Miata. The NA was produced from 1989 to 1997, while the NB was produced from 1998 to 2005. Each generation has its own design and features, with the NB generally being considered more modern and refined.
ABS
"So it's the more analog version. Honestly, even my 2000 doesn't have ABS. Okay, interesting."
ABS is a system in cars that helps the brakes work better, especially in slippery conditions. It stops the wheels from locking up when you brake hard, so you can still steer the car.
ABS stands for Anti-lock Braking System, a safety feature that prevents the wheels from locking up during braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control. It helps reduce stopping distances on slippery surfaces and enhances overall vehicle stability.
Dodge Viper
"And then in 01 it was mandated, I believe, because that's when the Viper got ABS."
The Viper is a fast sports car made by Dodge. It has a really powerful engine and is known for being exciting to drive, especially on racetracks.
The Dodge Viper is a high-performance sports car known for its powerful V10 engine and distinctive design. It was produced from 1992 to 2017 and is celebrated for its raw driving experience and track capabilities.
limited-slip differential
"And then some came with a limited slip. Not all of them did. Mind those."
A limited-slip differential helps both wheels on an axle to turn at different speeds when needed, but still sends power to both wheels, which helps with grip and control, especially when turning.
A limited-slip differential (LSD) is a type of differential that allows for some difference in wheel speed between the left and right wheels while still providing power to both, improving traction during acceleration and cornering.
pop-up tax
"...is because in my opinion, it's the classic one. The first one. Pop-up tax. Yeah, the pop-up tax."
'Pop-up tax' is a term used to describe how some cars with pop-up headlights can be worth more because they are seen as classic or special. People often pay extra for these unique features.
The term 'pop-up tax' refers to the increased value or premium associated with cars that feature pop-up headlights, often due to their nostalgic appeal and rarity. This phenomenon is particularly noted in classic cars, where certain design elements can significantly influence market value.
pop-up headlights
"...they no longer exist pop-up headlights, but for the most part..."
Pop-up headlights are headlights that can hide away inside the car when they're not needed. They were popular in older sports cars because they made the car look smoother.
Pop-up headlights are a type of automotive lighting that retracts into the body of the car when not in use. This design was popular in sports cars for its sleek appearance and aerodynamic benefits.
Alfa Romeo Spider
"...it pretty much put the Alpha Romeo Spider out of business. It put out like all those MG and Triumph..."
The Alfa Romeo Spider is a classic car that many people remember fondly. It was a stylish sports car from Italy that was popular for many years.
The Alfa Romeo Spider is a classic Italian sports car known for its stylish design and enjoyable driving experience. It was produced in various iterations from the 1960s until the early 1990s, making it a nostalgic choice for many car enthusiasts.
Toyota MR2
"The only other Japanese counterpart to the Miata was like the MR2, right?"
The Toyota MR2 is a small sports car that has its engine located in the middle of the car. This design helps it handle better on the road, making it fun to drive.
The Toyota MR2 is a mid-engine sports car that was produced in three generations from 1984 to 2007. It is known for its agile handling and sporty performance, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
mid-engine
"Right, yep, but that was mid-engine."
Mid-engine means the car's engine is located in the middle of the car, rather than the front or back. This helps the car handle better when driving fast.
A mid-engine layout refers to the placement of the engine in the middle of the vehicle, between the front and rear axles. This configuration typically enhances handling and balance, especially in sports cars.
BMW Z3
"...d of surprised that there weren't more. Well, the Z3 came out, right, in the late 90s. And then you ha..."
The BMW Z3 is a small, sporty convertible car that is fun to drive. It was one of BMW's first roadsters and is loved for its classic looks.
The BMW Z3 is a compact roadster that was produced from 1995 to 2002, known for its sporty design and engaging driving experience. It was BMW's first mass-produced roadster and has since become a classic among enthusiasts. The Z3 is often discussed for its retro styling and fun handling characteristics.
Porsche 928
"and when they're down, it's just sweet. Like the 928? Like the 928, 944, no, 928 is a lot of things."
The Porsche 928 is a stylish sports car that was made for comfort and speed. It has a powerful engine in the front and is known for being a great car for long drives.
The Porsche 928 is a luxury sports car that was produced from 1978 to 1995, known for its unique front-engine layout and grand touring capabilities. It was designed to combine the performance of a sports car with the comfort of a luxury vehicle, making it a significant model in Porsche's history. The 928 is often discussed for its distinctive design and V8 engine performance.
Porsche 944
"Like the 928? Like the 928, 944, no, 928 is a lot of things. 928, yeah."
The Porsche 944 is a sporty car that has its engine in the front and is known for being fun to drive. It was made to be a more affordable Porsche option.
The Porsche 944 is a sports car produced from 1982 to 1991, known for its balanced handling and front-engine layout. It was designed to be a more affordable option within the Porsche lineup while still offering sporty performance. The 944 is often discussed for its value in the used car market and its driving dynamics.
Mercedes-Benz SL
"I'm gonna get there, right? No, yeah, SL could even be, because technically- That's a divo..."
The Mercedes-Benz SL is a fancy convertible car that is known for being both stylish and powerful. It's a luxury car that many people dream of owning.
The Mercedes-Benz SL is a luxury roadster that has been in production since 1952, known for its blend of performance and elegance. It features advanced technology and a comfortable interior, making it a popular choice among affluent buyers. The SL is often discussed for its iconic design and status as a symbol of luxury automotive engineering.
BMW Z4
"it's definitely not a car for you. Go get a Z3, a Z4, maybe an NC, even an NC, I'd really just go with..."
The BMW Z4 is a sporty car that looks great and is fun to drive. It comes in both a hardtop and a convertible version, making it versatile.
The BMW Z4 is a luxury sports car that has been produced since 2002, known for its dynamic handling and stylish design. It is available in both coupe and convertible forms, appealing to those who enjoy spirited driving. The Z4 is often discussed for its performance capabilities and as a competitor to other luxury roadsters.
Porsche 911
"even an NC, I'd really just go with a Z3 at that point. I'm 9'11", what the fuck? I'm 5'11", that's why I,"
The Porsche 911 is a famous sports car that has been around for a long time. It's known for its unique shape and fast performance, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
The Porsche 911 is an iconic sports car that has been in production since 1964, renowned for its distinctive design and rear-engine layout. It has become a symbol of performance and luxury, with numerous variants and a strong motorsport heritage. The 911 is frequently discussed for its driving dynamics and cultural significance in the automotive world.
Lexus Ls400 Lexus
"...pping kits for Miata's for an LS. What is it, the LS400 Lexus? What is that?"
The Lexus LS 400 is a big, comfortable car that is known for being very reliable. It was one of the first luxury cars from Lexus and is loved for its smooth ride.
The Lexus LS 400 is a full-size luxury sedan that was first introduced in 1989, known for its quality, comfort, and reliability. It set the standard for luxury vehicles and helped establish Lexus as a premium brand. The LS 400 is often discussed for its smooth ride and advanced features for its time.
Cadillac Ctsv
"If I want more power, I'll just go buy a CTS-V or something. Go buy something worth power."
The Cadillac CTS-V is a fast and powerful version of the Cadillac CTS car. It's built for people who want a luxury car that can also go really fast and handle well.
The Cadillac CTS-V is a high-performance variant of the Cadillac CTS, known for its powerful engine and sporty handling. It's designed for enthusiasts who seek a combination of luxury and performance.
direct injection
"...if they kept it port injected. I think it's direct. But a lot of modern cars are going GDO. No, it's direct injected."
Direct injection means that fuel goes straight into the engine's combustion chamber instead of mixing with air first. This helps the engine run more efficiently and can improve performance.
Direct injection is a fuel delivery system where fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber of an engine, allowing for better fuel atomization and efficiency compared to traditional port injection.
Mazda Mx5
"props to Mazda for not neglecting their pride and joy, their roadster, the Mazda MX-5. So like the way I remember like reading"
The Mazda MX-5, or Miata, is a small, fun-to-drive convertible car that is great for enjoying the open road. It's known for being light and easy to handle.
The Mazda MX-5, also known as the Miata, is a lightweight two-seat roadster that has been in production since 1989. It is celebrated for its engaging driving experience and affordability, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts. The MX-5 is often discussed for its simplicity, fun handling, and as a representation of the classic roadster spirit.
Mazda Cx5S
"We need volume cars like CX-5s and things like that, right?"
The Mazda CX-5 is a popular SUV known for being comfortable and fun to drive. It's a good choice for families or anyone needing extra space.
The Mazda CX-5 is a compact crossover SUV that has gained popularity for its stylish design and driving dynamics. It represents Mazda's commitment to producing vehicles that are both practical and enjoyable to drive.
Porsche Boxster
"...l because of the interiors and it looked like the Boxster and all those things. But the Miata is still goin..."
The Porsche Boxster is a two-seat convertible sports car that is fun to drive. It has a mid-engine design, which helps it handle really well on the road.
The Porsche Boxster is a mid-engine roadster that was introduced in 1996, designed to offer a more affordable entry into the Porsche brand. It combines sporty handling with a convertible top, making it popular among driving enthusiasts. The Boxster is often discussed for its balance and performance, as well as its role in revitalizing Porsche's lineup.
Porsche 911 Turbo
"...a video on the history, the 50 anniversary of the 911 Turbo, right? So my takeaways from watching both of tho..."
The Porsche 911 Turbo is a super-fast version of the 911 sports car that has a turbocharged engine. It’s known for being very powerful while still being comfortable enough for daily driving.
The Porsche 911 Turbo is a high-performance variant of the classic 911, first introduced in 1975, featuring turbocharged engines for enhanced power and speed. It is celebrated for its exceptional acceleration and advanced technology, making it a benchmark in the sports car segment. The 911 Turbo is often discussed for its blend of everyday usability and track-ready performance.
Porsche Gt3S
"...nd all that. One other all turbo besides like the GT3s, right? Because one of the 911s come just turbo n..."
The Porsche 911 GT3 is a very fast version of the 911 that is made for racing and serious driving. It’s lightweight and has a powerful engine, making it a favorite among car lovers.
The Porsche 911 GT3 is a high-performance variant of the 911, designed specifically for track use while still being street-legal. It features a naturally aspirated engine and a focus on lightweight construction, making it one of the most revered models among driving purists. The GT3 is often discussed for its racing pedigree and exhilarating driving experience.
Porsche Taycan
"Regardless. Taycan turbo. Yeah."
The Porsche Taycan is a fancy electric car that is fast and has a lot of high-tech features. It shows that Porsche is moving into the electric car world while still keeping performance in mind.
The Porsche Taycan is an all-electric luxury sports sedan that represents Porsche's entry into the electric vehicle market. Launched in 2019, it combines high performance with advanced technology and luxurious features. The Taycan is often discussed for its impressive acceleration and range, showcasing Porsche's commitment to electric mobility.
Chevrolet SSR
"...d, analog and great garage? We got a purple Chevy SSR going up for sale. Ooh, right up the GM Guru's al..."
The Chevrolet SSR is a cool-looking truck that has a convertible top. It's a unique vehicle that combines the fun of a car with the utility of a truck.
The Chevrolet SSR is a retro-styled pickup truck that was produced from 2003 to 2006, combining elements of a convertible and a truck. It features a unique design and was aimed at those looking for a fun, stylish vehicle. The SSR is often discussed for its distinctive appearance and as a collector's item.
Plymouth Prowler
"... is it the same like purple color as the Plymouth Prowler? It's similar to Plum Crazy Purple,"
The Plymouth Prowler is a one-of-a-kind car that looks like a classic hot rod. It’s known for being fun to drive and stands out because of its unique design.
The Plymouth Prowler is a unique retro-styled roadster produced from 1997 to 2002, known for its distinctive design and limited production. It features a V6 engine and was aimed at those looking for a fun, eye-catching vehicle. The Prowler is often discussed for its quirky appearance and as a collector's item.
Chrysler PT Cruiser
"...body was doing stuff like that. Like the HHR, the PT Cruiser, the Prowler, like that was just kind of a weird ..."
Chevrolet HHR
"...hen everybody was doing stuff like that. Like the HHR, the PT Cruiser, the Prowler, like that was just ..."
The Chevrolet HHR is a small car that looks a bit like old delivery vans. It has a lot of space inside, making it practical for carrying things.
The Chevrolet HHR is a retro-styled compact vehicle that was produced from 2005 to 2011, designed to evoke the look of classic panel vans. It offers a spacious interior and versatile cargo options, appealing to those seeking practicality. The HHR is often discussed for its unique design and as a representation of the early 2000s automotive trends.
Ford Thunderbird
"like that was just kind of a weird period. The Thunderbird. There's a lot of like funky cars."
The Ford Thunderbird is a classic American car that was made for luxury and style. It has been around for a long time and is known for its cool design.
The Ford Thunderbird is a classic American car that was first introduced in 1955, originally designed as a personal luxury vehicle. It has undergone several redesigns and has been produced in various forms, including coupes and convertibles. The Thunderbird is often discussed for its historical significance and as a symbol of mid-20th century American automotive design.
Ford Mustang
"...and that's different because that's also when the Mustang redesigned and also when the Camaro came out and ..."
The Ford Mustang is a classic American car known for being powerful and sporty. It has been around for a long time and is loved for its performance and style.
The Ford Mustang is an iconic American muscle car that was first introduced in 1964, symbolizing freedom and performance. It has undergone numerous redesigns and remains popular for its powerful engines and sporty design. The Mustang is often discussed for its cultural impact and as a benchmark in the muscle car segment.
Chevrolet Camaro
"...lso when the Mustang redesigned and also when the Camaro came out and like all of them, but those ones did..."
The Chevrolet Camaro is a sporty American car that is known for its strong engines and cool looks. It was made to compete with the Ford Mustang and is popular among car fans.
The Chevrolet Camaro is a classic American muscle car that was first introduced in 1966, designed to compete with the Ford Mustang. It is known for its aggressive styling and powerful engine options, making it a favorite among performance enthusiasts. The Camaro is often discussed for its role in the muscle car revival and its various performance variants.
Chevrolet HHR SS
"...HHR was also kind of a piece of shit. Besides the HHR SS those are kind of cool. What 20 year old in the N..."
The Chevrolet HHR SS is a faster version of the HHR that has a turbo engine. It's designed for people who want a fun driving experience while still having space.
The Chevrolet HHR SS is a sportier version of the HHR, featuring a turbocharged engine and enhanced performance features. It was produced from 2006 to 2010 and aimed at those looking for a more dynamic driving experience. The HHR SS is often discussed for its unique combination of practicality and sportiness.
Dodge Challenger
"What 20 year old in the Navy doesn't want a Dodge Challenger right now? Yeah, but is that a good thing?"
The Dodge Challenger is a big, powerful American car that looks like the classic models from the past. It’s known for its strong engines and fun driving experience.
The Dodge Challenger is a modern muscle car that pays homage to its classic 1970s predecessor, known for its bold styling and powerful engine options. It has gained popularity for its retro design and performance capabilities, making it a strong contender in the muscle car market. The Challenger is often discussed for its performance variants and as a symbol of American automotive culture.
Request an Explanation
Heard something you'd like explained? We'll add it to this episode.
Sign in to request explanations for terms you heard.
Want to learn more?
Browse our glossary for plain-English explanations of automotive terms, jargon, and concepts.
Help improve this episode
See something that's not quite right? Our annotations are AI-generated and can sometimes miss the mark. Click the flag icon on any annotation to suggest a correction.