I base my opinions strictly on subjective information: informal conversation at
club meetings (including non-LBC clubs), similar threads on other automotive
groups, and by talking to Miata owners (both enthusiasts and non-enthusiasts)
on the street, at work, and at events. The subject of Miata vs. any LBC comes
up often. The point I was trying to make is not that one group is "repulsed"
by the other group's cars, it's simply a matter of taste and expectations.
I may have some personal "biases", but I thought I made it clear that I think
the Miata is a wonderful car in most respects, but isn't an LBC nor a
reasonable replacement for one. (It may be a sports car, but it's not a
"classic" sports car.) However, I completely agree with you that the use of
LBC's as daily drivers is significantly declining. I used them as my only
drivers for years and years, but I don't any more.
Why? A big part is that in the 70's/80's, nice LBC's were available as "used
cars". Now, they've all attained collector status, driving up the price of
nice ones. At the same time, the "not so nice ones" are getting much worse,
not generally being up to the task of daily driving. And, they're all now
_much_ older, displaying the same age problems as all cars. (Of course, the
drivers are _much_ older now as well.) So, while I _drive_ my LBC's
extensively, I use other types of vehicles for my 120mile/day daily commute.
A Miata would make a excellent driver in this respect. But, since I would only
buy one _in addition_ to my LBC's, not as a replacement for them, why would I
want to live with the basic design limitations? (i.e. limited storage, 2
seats, etc.) Lots of us have kids, you know. Instead, we use an Audi Quattro
(this _is_ WI) and a SAAB 900T convertible. Neither is a sports car (like the
Miata), but both are much more practical in daily use.
Should you move into Miatas? My opinion is "yes". I love LBC's because I grew
up with LBC's. My teenager, while having a lot of respect for them, sees them
as antiques. He wants a "modern" car, like a CRX or a Miata. (They see the
first generation MR2 and CRX as "classics".) It's not hard for me to see his
point of view, and most of his friends seem to share it (at least the ones who
don't want trucks!) The first generation Miata _is_ their MGB!
Just my .02!
Bill Elliott
Lake Mills, WI
ps: Didn't the MG-T guys making this same argument against the MGB/Midget a few
decades ago?
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