[robz71lm7]

Any input on an LS1 powered Miata? It would be primarily for a fun project car to drive on the weekend with the occasional autocross or track day.

I'm getting bored again and weighing this versus another 4th gen (LS1 powered) or a turbo miata.

[Steve91T]

My 1998 4 door M3, which I really wanted because it weighs the same as the 2 door. It had 192,000 miles, and came with a stack of records. I paid $5000. $7500 will buy you a low mile M3 and that's about as expensive as they come. The engine goes forever. Blackstone said it was wearing beautifully. Springs and shocks are all that you need to do, if you want and they are the same price as anything else. The difference between and M3 and 3 series is huge. Completely different suspension geometry, larger brakes, LSD, and even brake ducts in the bumper. If you can find an M3, I'd go the route. Bushings are the biggest expense in any 3 series, but if you can do an engine swap, I'm sure you can replace the bushings saving you a ton.

http://youtu.be/zXZKEEIzFb8

One last thing. LS1 Miata's have more weight added up front throwing the balance off. The LS1 doesn't add any weight to the E36, but the T56 does add 30 or so lbs. But that added weight is added to the best possible place, low and in the center of the car.

This post has been edited by Steve91T: Aug 7 2014, 02:36 AM

[FASTFATBOY]

My 1998 4 door M3, which I really wanted because it weighs the same as the 2 door. It had 192,000 miles, and came with a stack of records. I paid $5000. $7500 will buy you a low mile M3 and that's about as expensive as they come. The engine goes forever. Blackstone said it was wearing beautifully. Springs and shocks are all that you need to do, if you want and they are the same price as anything else. The difference between and M3 and 3 series is huge. Completely different suspension geometry, larger brakes, LSD, and even brake ducts in the bumper. If you can find an M3, I'd go the route. Bushings are the biggest expense in any 3 series, but if you can do an engine swap, I'm sure you can replace the bushings saving you a ton.

http://youtu.be/zXZKEEIzFb8

One last thing. LS1 Miata's have more weight added up front throwing the balance off. The LS1 doesn't add any weight to the E36, but the T56 does add 30 or so lbs. But that added weight is added to the best possible place, low and in the center of the car.

Also check the rear subframe where the control arms mount, E36 is notorious for cracking here. There is a reinforcement kit that needs to be welded in the car.

I would love an E36 chassis car with an LS swap. Best of all worlds IMO.