Introduction to the Beast Mazda Miata (NA)
The Mazda Miata (NA), produced from 1989 to 1997, is widely regarded as one of the best budget-friendly drift cars available. With its lightweight design, rear-wheel drive, and affordable price, the NA Miata offers an unbeatable combination of performance and value for those looking to get into drifting without spending a fortune. In this article, we’ll explore why the Mazda Miata (NA) is the ultimate budget drift car, with insights from top professionals in the drifting world.
Why the Mazda Miata (NA) is Perfect for Drifting
Lightweight Design for Maximum Control
One of the standout features of the Mazda Miata (NA) is its lightweight design. Weighing in at just around 2,100 to 2,200 lbs, the NA Miata is incredibly agile, making it an ideal choice for drifting. The low weight allows for quick transitions and precise control during drifts, which is especially important for beginners and experienced drifters alike.
As Chris Forsberg, a 3-time Formula Drift champion, puts it:
“The Miata is a great car for beginners. It’s lightweight, rear-wheel drive, and easy to control, which makes it perfect for learning the fundamentals of drifting.”
The NA Miata’s compact size allows it to easily navigate tight corners, making it a favorite for those looking to perfect their drifting technique in smaller spaces.
Rear-Wheel Drive for Drifting Dynamics
The rear-wheel drive (RWD) configuration is another reason the Mazda Miata (NA) excels at drifting. Rear-wheel drive cars allow the rear tires to break traction while maintaining control of the front wheels, which is essential for successful drifting. The NA Miata’s RWD setup makes it easy to initiate and maintain drifts, giving drivers full control over their slides.
Adam LZ, a popular drifting YouTuber, emphasizes:
“If you’re looking to get into drifting without breaking the bank, the Miata (NA) is one of the best options. It’s cheap, fun, and easy to modify to fit your drifting style.”
The NA Miata’s RWD setup is perfect for learning to drift because it allows you to easily break the rear tires loose and slide, while the front tires maintain steering control. This balance between power and handling makes it a great car for building drifting skills.
Key Features of the Mazda Miata (NA)
The Mazda Miata (NA) is packed with features that make it a fantastic drift car, especially for those on a budget. Here’s a quick look at its key specs:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.6L 4-cylinder engine |
| Power | 115 horsepower |
| Torque | 100 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Drive Type | Rear-wheel drive (RWD) |
| Weight | 2,100–2,200 lbs |
| Suspension | Independent suspension (front & rear) |
| 0-60 mph Time | 6.5 seconds |
| Price Range | $3,000 – $7,000 (used models depending on year and condition) |
These features make the NA Miata a standout in the world of affordable drift cars. Its relatively low power output allows for easy control, and the lightweight nature means it’s highly maneuverable, perfect for those learning the ropes of drifting.
Affordability: The Low-Budget Drifting Option
Affordable Purchase Price
When it comes to getting into drifting on a budget, the Mazda Miata (NA) stands out as one of the most affordable options. You can often find used NA Miatas for as little as $3,000, making it an excellent entry-level car for drifting enthusiasts. While other popular drift cars can cost significantly more, the NA Miata provides an excellent balance of performance and price.
Matt Farah, host of The Smoking Tire, has praised the Miata (NA) for its affordability:
“The Miata offers everything you need for a fun drift car at a fraction of the cost of other vehicles. It’s a perfect car to learn on without worrying about blowing your budget.”
Whether you’re a first-time car buyer or an experienced drifter, the NA Miata provides a fantastic entry point into the world of drifting without requiring a huge financial commitment.
Low Maintenance Costs
Another advantage of the Miata (NA) is its low maintenance costs. Parts are readily available and inexpensive, which makes it an ideal car for those looking to modify it without breaking the bank. From suspension upgrades to engine swaps, the NA Miata’s affordability extends well beyond its initial purchase price.
NA Miatas are known for their reliability and ease of maintenance, which is especially important for those who plan to use the car for drifting events. Since many Miata parts are shared across multiple generations, they are easy to source and cost-effective to replace.
Modifications to Make Your Miata (NA) Drift-Ready
Essential Mods for Drifting
While the stock Mazda Miata (NA) is a fantastic car for drifting, a few key modifications can make it even more drift-friendly. Some of the most popular upgrades include:
- Coilovers: Upgrading the suspension with coilovers helps improve handling and stability during drifts. This modification allows you to adjust the ride height and stiffness, giving you better control over the car’s behavior.
- Limited-Slip Differential (LSD): An LSD allows for more consistent power delivery to the rear wheels, making it easier to control drifts. It helps prevent the inside wheel from spinning too much, providing better grip and stability.
- Tires: Using the right tires for drifting can make a huge difference in performance. Many drifters opt for a mix of affordable, durable tires that offer a good balance between grip and slide. Choosing the right tire pressure is also key to achieving the perfect drift.
Budget-Friendly Modifications
One of the best things about the Miata (NA) is that you don’t need to spend a fortune on modifications. You can make it drift-ready on a budget by focusing on essential performance upgrades. As Larry Chen, a renowned automotive photographer, has noted:
“Miatas are a staple in the grassroots drifting scene. They’re light, nimble, and make drifting feel like a natural extension of your driving.”
Some affordable mods include upgrading the sway bars to improve handling, installing a strut tower brace for better chassis rigidity, and swapping in used racing seats for added support during aggressive driving.
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Driving Experience: Fun, Engaging, and Perfect for Beginners
Handling and Control
The Mazda Miata (NA)’s responsive handling and lightweight design make it a joy to drive, especially when it comes to drifting. It’s easy to get the car sideways, and the balance between the front and rear axles allows for smooth transitions during a drift. Whether you’re practicing on a track or hitting a local drift event, the NA Miata delivers an engaging and fun driving experience.
Ken Block, founder of Hoonigan and professional rally driver, has spoken highly of the Miata (NA) in drifting:
“You don’t need to spend a ton of money to have fun drifting. The Miata (NA) is a perfect example of how a simple, affordable car can deliver an amazing experience.”
The NA Miata’s balanced chassis and quick steering make it one of the most enjoyable cars to drive in the drifting world. It allows for easy initiation of drifts, and the car’s lightweight nature ensures that it’s always in control, even during the most aggressive slides.
Perfect for Beginners
For those just starting out in drifting, the Miata (NA) is an excellent choice. Its forgiving nature and easy handling make it ideal for learning the basics of drifting without feeling overwhelmed. The NA Miata’s low power output means you can focus on mastering the art of drifting without worrying about excessive speed or power. This makes it an ideal platform for building your drifting skills before moving on to more powerful machines.
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Comparison with Other Budget Drift Cars
Nissan 240SX vs Mazda Miata (NA)
While the Nissan 240SX is another popular choice for budget drifting, the NA Miata has a few advantages. The 240SX is larger and heavier, which can make it more difficult to handle in tight spaces. The NA Miata’s smaller size and lighter weight give it a more nimble feel, especially in beginner-friendly drifting scenarios.
Additionally, the Miata (NA) has a more accessible price point, with many models available for a fraction of the cost of a used 240SX. For beginners, the NA Miata’s forgiving handling and lower cost of ownership make it a standout choice in the world of budget drift cars.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Budget Drift Car
In conclusion, the Mazda Miata (NA) is the perfect car for anyone looking to get into drifting on a budget. Its lightweight design, rear-wheel drive configuration, and affordability make it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced drifters alike. With a few modifications, the NA Miata can easily become a drift machine that offers endless fun.
As Chris Forsberg puts it:
“The Miata is a great car for beginners. It’s lightweight, rear-wheel drive, and easy to control, which makes it perfect for learning the fundamentals of drifting.”
Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a budget-friendly drift car, the Mazda Miata (NA) is the car you didn’t know you needed.
The Mazda Miata (NA) is more than just a car; it’s a drifting legend with an aura of excitement that attracts enthusiasts worldwide. With its perfect balance of power, agility, and affordability, it’s no wonder why this roadster is a top choice for those looking to slide with style.
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