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The NA Miata is a beloved car among enthusiasts, particularly for its lightweight design and balanced handling. For track day performance, upgrading the suspension and power components is crucial. In this article, we will explore the best modifications to enhance your NA Miata’s performance on the track.
Suspension Upgrades
Upgrading the suspension is one of the most effective ways to improve your NA Miata’s handling and stability on the track. Here are some top suspension mods to consider:
- Coilovers: Investing in a quality set of coilovers allows for adjustable ride height and damping settings, providing better control during cornering.
- Sway Bars: Upgrading to stiffer sway bars helps reduce body roll, improving cornering performance.
- Strut Braces: Adding front and rear strut braces increases chassis rigidity, enhancing steering response.
- Camber Plates: Adjustable camber plates allow for fine-tuning of alignment settings, which can optimize tire contact during turns.
Coilover Options
When selecting coilovers, consider reputable brands such as BC Racing, Fortune Auto, or Tein. Each offers a range of options tailored for track use, with features like:
- Full height adjustability
- Independent compression and rebound adjustment
- Durable construction for track conditions
Power Modifications
Enhancing the power output of your NA Miata can significantly improve its performance on the track. Here are some recommended power mods:
- Cold Air Intake: A high-quality cold air intake system increases airflow to the engine, improving throttle response and power.
- Exhaust System: Upgrading to a performance exhaust system reduces back pressure and enhances the engine’s sound.
- ECU Tune: A professional ECU tune can optimize fuel maps and ignition timing, leading to noticeable power gains.
- Header Upgrade: Replacing the stock header with a performance header can improve exhaust flow and increase horsepower.
Choosing the Right Exhaust
When selecting an exhaust system, consider options from brands like Flyin’ Miata or Borla. Look for features such as:
- Stainless steel construction for durability
- Mandrel-bent piping for optimal flow
- Lightweight design to reduce overall weight
Brake Upgrades
Improving your braking system is essential for track performance. Here are some key brake upgrades:
- Performance Brake Pads: Upgrading to high-friction brake pads enhances stopping power and reduces fade during track use.
- Stainless Steel Brake Lines: These lines improve brake feel and responsiveness by reducing flex under pressure.
- Upgraded Rotors: Consider slotted or drilled rotors for better heat dissipation and improved braking performance.
- Big Brake Kit: For serious track enthusiasts, a big brake kit provides larger calipers and rotors for maximum stopping power.
Choosing Brake Pads
When selecting brake pads, look for brands like Hawk or EBC. Key features to consider include:
- High-temperature performance
- Low dust production
- Noise reduction technology
Tire Selection
The right tires can make a significant difference in track performance. Here are some factors to consider when choosing tires for your NA Miata:
- Tire Type: Consider performance tires designed for track use, such as Michelin Pilot Sport or Toyo Proxes.
- Tire Size: Upgrading to wider tires can improve grip and cornering stability.
- Compound: Choose a tire compound that balances grip and durability for track conditions.
Recommended Tire Brands
Some recommended tire brands for track performance include:
- Michelin
- Toyo
- Bridgestone
- Continental
Final Thoughts
Upgrading your NA Miata for track day performance involves a combination of suspension, power, brake, and tire modifications. By carefully selecting the right components, you can enhance your car’s handling, speed, and overall driving experience on the track. Remember to balance your upgrades based on your specific driving style and track conditions for the best results.