Customer Reviews

Mazda Miata Performance Handbook (Motorbooks Workshop)

5 star:		(12)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(2)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Written by a member of the original design team, this book sheds light on the "right way" to modify your miata. Saved me from buying unneeded modifications!

The "Performance Handbook" seems to be a little light on performance. A very good read for those of us who love the little cars, but it is more of an illustrated history than a "Performance Handbook."

The book does offer a good history on the car, from the first thoughts of bringing the roadster back to The U.S., but don't go fetch the tool box. You'll not need it.

If you want to get your hands dirty and make your car zip around better, try Keith Tanner's "Miata MX-5 Performance Projects."

Then get the tools out.

This is a must have book for Miata owner. If you plan to change or upgrade any performance part - i.e tire, power cable etc... pls read this book.. you could save a lot of dollars by avoiding silly mistake by understanding the unique design of Miata.. I've improved the ride of my car tremendously by following the guide of this book...excellent . It let's you put your money where it is matters...

If you own a Miata and are thinking of doing any performance upgrades of any kind - get this book first! There's a lot you can do to increase your Miata's performance, but there's also a lot you can do to really mess it up. Norman Garrett helped design the car, so he knows what he's talking about. He guides you through all the different systems and how they can best be improved, and warns you away from mistakes that so many owners make when buying aftermarket goodies. Keep this one close to your tool box!

In addition to providing practical information and advice, this book in enjoyable to read. I have no past mechanical experience, but the book has given me the instruction to begin tinkering with my Miata. Even if you don't do the work yourself, this book gives great information on what to consider and teaches you the language to use with mechanics and fellow Miata enthusiasts.

Good read for people who like to know the History of Miata. It also got some very useful info on what to modify and what not to. Mazda spend a lot amount of $$ in designing the Miata, and this books explain it.

Will recommended to New Miata owner.

SC

Very good book if you're considering to improve Miata's performance. Many parts of the car are very good and don't need any changes. Some parts can be improved and this book helps to make the correct changes without spending lots of money in the wrong parts.

As an insider on the design and development of the Miata, Garrett has some unique insights and some great advice on selecting the right performance or style accessories for this popular roadster.

The book is a quick read and gives you a great overview of what aftermarket modifications give you the best bang for your buck and which ones can actually hurt this car's delicately balanced performance and handling characteristics.

The writing style is accessible with only a few forays into more esoteric aspects of automotive design. I found myself wishing for more information when it came to actual project details. Consider this book a great introduction and overview, but don't look for many project specific details here.

The section on suspension design and wheel and tire selection was particularly useful for me when I decided to replace wheels and tires. The advice on tire and wheel selection alone is worth the price of this book.

Norman Garrett was the publisher of Miata Magazine from 1990 until 1998(9). In that time a lot of articles were written about how to do performance upgrades on the Miata. Most of these articles were not written by Mr. Garrett. Norman simply rehashed these into this book. Most of the modifications that he gives great reviews to in the book (and previously in Miata Magazine) he has some vested interest in. There is nothing new in this book. I bought it. Wasted money.

Even if you decide your - already pretty good right off the assembly line - Miata does not need any modifications, this book is still a must. It definitely is when you do plan some mods. I personally still have not gotten around to modifying much more than just another set of wheels or so, but found the book more than worth it's money just for entertainment purposes and a better understanding of the car. (I personally believe the car needs minor touches at best, if any at all.)