Drivers may elect to build their own Spec Miata or buy an existing race car. Keep in mind, there are 4 iterations of cars to choose from to get into Spec Miata racing, while each iteration has its pros/cons to consider.
Buying a Spec Miata can range anywhere from $8,000 for an entry level used vehicle up to $65,000 for a top flight, no expense spared fresh build from a professional race shop. Generally speaking, there is roughly $15,000 in hard parts required to build a Spec Miata. Many of these parts can be purchased used for racers with a lower budget:
NA6: 1990-1993 (1.6L 4 cylinder engine)
Generally the lowest cost of entry and lightest race weight. Building a top flight NA6 can be the most expensive due to the need to maximize a lot of parts on the car and the fact that it does not run with a restrictor plate. Buying an existing NA6 car is typically the most cost effective way to get into Spec Miata racing.
NA8: 1994-1997 (1.8L 4 cylinder engine)
Rarest model of the cars, so drivers of this model may need to carry more spare parts as some parts from the other models are not compatible. There are typically fewer of these cars on any given weekend to borrow parts from other people, so carrying spares is a consideration. This car does run with a restrictor plate.
NB1: 1999-2000 (1.8L 4 cylinder engine)
This is the first generation of the non pop-up headlight cars. It is the same basic tub as the NA platform with a few minor modifications. The body is slightly larger and has better aero than the NA platform. This car does run with a restrictor plate.
NB2: 2001-2005 (1.8L 4 cylinder VVT engine)
This is the latest generation of Miata that eligible to race in Spec Miata. The engine has variable valve timing (VVT) which gives the car better torque than the other cars. This car does run with a restrictor plate.
All of the cars are balanced for performance with different restrictor plate sizes (except NA6) and weights. Nationally the NB platform has the most entries and most success at the big events, but there are plenty of NA cars running successfully in various places across the country.
The beauty of racing a Spec Miata on any given weekend is that there is always someone to race against regardless of the car build quality or driver ability. The cars can also run in multiple race groups in case you want more track time. Many run their Spec Miata in both SM and STL without any changes to the car so they can get double the track time and racing.
There are other classes and organizations that offer both sprint racing and endurance racing that the 1990-2005 Mazda Miata can race. Some examples are:
- National Auto Sport Association (NASA) – National Spec Miata class, ST5
- AER
- ICSCC – Spec Miata
- WRL
An overview of the Spec Miata race car is here.
A comprehensive parts list can be seen/downloaded here.
A guide to choosing a donor car is here.
If after reviewing the build sheet, you decide you are interested in buying a completed car, check out our list of Preferred Race Shops.