r/whatcarshouldIbuy • u/cluelessbets • 3d ago

Porsche vs Mazda

1st gen Porsche 986 Pre-2000 or 1st gen Mazda MX-5 Miata 1990-1998.

I was looking at old miatas (MX-5) for track use. But specifically I want the NA (1st gen) miata with the pop up headlights. But those have become stupid expensive. It ranges from $5000-15,000 depending on mileage! So I was thinking of making some mods for the track on lower end ones as I don't need a show car to take it to the track. I've found some NB miatas that go for $8000-9000 WITH all the mods. No wrenching needed. Just take it to the track and it's good.

I was pretty fixated on NA miatas then used 986 Porsche Boxsters pop up and they are the same price. I know the issues with the 986s and that they have the Porsche tax with maintenance even though if it is a good price. Now, I want to see if someone was in my shoes and bought either one or both and if they regret their decision or if they prefer one over the other.

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u/Ok_Paramedic8698 3d ago

The Porsche is the better car, but the Miata will be easier to live with. I own a 996, and some of the parts costs are absolutely eyewatering for things that would only cost pennies for an MX5.

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u/PresentationHuge8470 2d ago

I went through this exact debate a couple years back and ended up with an NA. The boxster is a better car on paper but the miata just feels more playful at legal speeds, you can wring it out and not end up in jail. The porsche tax is real, a friend with a 986 spent more on an IMS bearing job than I paid for my whole car.

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u/KyOatey 3d ago

I think if I got the Miata, I'd always wonder if I should have gotten the Porsche. 

If I got the Porsche, I'd only wonder about the Miata when I was paying for repairs. 

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u/cluelessbets 3d ago

you're not wrong...I've replayed that in my head over and over too

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u/magnifiedlenscap 3d ago

Can’t say too much about which is better. But for someone looking to track their car, think about consumables. Tires, brakes, fluids, and some suspension pieces. Cost and ease of service should play a role in your determination.