We finally moved back to Mumbai in 2002 and the odd Miata sighting in the city consistently brought back fond memories and a strong desire to own one again. I finally took the plunge a few months ago and bought a red NA (a first generation) Eunos Roadster with all the frills. My wife questions my maturity now that I have bought another Miata after the birth of our third child, but although she isn’t demonstrative about it, I know she is as excited about it as I am. With a little help from miata.net, an online community with a treasure trove of Miata related information, I have ironed out some of the problems, replaced numerous parts and upgraded some of the interiors. Amazingly, I was able to source most mechanical parts right here in Mumbai. Cosmetic parts like the top, door handles, weather stripping, etc were more challenging and had to be imported. The spec list now reads something like this: red, tan interiors, black top, Nardi wheel, shift knob and e-brake lever, LSD, stainless steel sill plates and speaker covers, alloys and an exhaust note that I never realised I would miss so much. What’s next? Why, British Racing Green of course – as soon as I get the rest of the car running just the way I like it.
So what is this mystical force that Miatas have for me? I think it’s the grin that I can’t seem to wipe off my face each time I drive it. I am a Miata junkie and will probably own and drive one for the rest of my life.
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