Since I got my new wheels and tires (949Racing.com's 6ULs in 15x7.5 with Toyo Tires T1Rs in 195/50) I've started to feel the love for my Miata again. After the drive home along highway 2 in Washington State and showing them off to everyone, I've:
Had the car washed and the interior vacuumed.
ArmorAlled everything vinyl or plastic.
Installed (and properly torqued!) new spark plugs (and even retorqued them after a couple of days; they did work a little loose).
Bought a timing light and discovered that my Miata has already had its timing advanced to 14° BTDC (which explains why I have to use at least mid-grade gasoline if I don't want to hear the occasional ping).
And along the way take rides along several fun roads. If you're interested, Google Map:
Cypress Mountain Road, West Vancouver.
Sasamat Lane, North Vancouver
Mt. Seymour Rd., North Vancouver (this one in particular; kilometres of twisting one lane asphalt?in really good shape!, cut between primordial forest.
I've used my iPhone and an app called "Dynolicious" to record friction circle g's and timed acceleration runs. So far, my best skidpad number is 0.9g and my best 0-50 is 8.11 seconds. The tires are amazing; 0.9g was done without so much as a hint of tire squeal, and running down the mountain roads (where being a little down on power doesn't matter very much) is just too much fun.
And what I've discovered is that I want new shocks and springs...
...right away. The only trouble at some points on those roads is the lack of composure caused by too soft springs and completely worn-out shocks.
I'm thinking Flyin' Miata's AFCOs might be the best call.