On Sep 11, 2005, at 1:52 PM, Randall wrote0:
>> Since it goes a good deal faster in first than the TR4, it seems that
>> close-ratio was their goal.
>
> My impression was that the Miata's motor is much peakier than a stock
> TR engine,
Considering that a TR4 has torque all the way to the basement, that's
hardly surprising.
> and thus the close ratios are required to keep it in it's power band.
> For only
> 10% less displacement (older Miata), it sure makes a whole lot less
> torque below
> 3000 rpm. Of course it goes on up to make quite a bit more power than
> the TR4,
> which usually does require some compromise at low rpm.
My 1800cc Miata has a twink stated to produce 128 HP. I have not seen
the dyno curves, but the engine clearly comes on the cams about at
about 4 grand (same as my Saturn), and it pulls strong to the redline
at 7. The TR4, on the other hand, pulls solid from the drop of the
clutch with no perceptible steps in power all the way to the redline at
5.
The important thing is that they are both real sports cars. The 1994
Miata in stock trim fits into the current world of autocross better
than a a stock TR4, and had the added benefit of being a good deal
cheaper than a TR4 in similar condition. Using our existing TR4 for
ten or more autocrosses a season was clearly not on the table. It does
after all say TR44SUE on the license plate. Of course that game has
slanted rules, too, as Sue has started to really like the Miata. I do
have to remind her that it is my autocross car...
Phil Ethier West Side Saint Paul Minnesota USA
1962 TR4 CT2846L, 1992 Saturn SL2, 1993 Suburban, 1994 Miata C package
pethier@isd.net http://www.mnautox.com/
http://www.lotuseuropa.org/gallery/view_album.php?
set_albumName=philethier
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