Interested in purchasing a Miata, looking for advice.

As the title says, I'm looking to purchase a Miata for my daily driver. I'm looking for something in the mid 90's range, manual, with a budget of about $3500 - $4500. I'd like to know what to look out for, what to avoid, what years/models have inherent mechanical problems, etc. I'd also like to get an idea of the reliability of these cars in general, since I'm sure whatever I end up with will have at least 40-50k on the odometer. Finally, if anyone knows of any other sites I should take a look at, please let me know. Thanks in advance for your time guys, hope to be driving something besides my Ranger soon!

I had a 93 miata with a54k on it and all I ever had to do was replace a water pump.

Miata's are very reliable cars. You should try to get at least a 94 model as thts the first year with the larger 1.8L engine and better limmited slip differental on sports package equiped cars. Limited edition cars are always a good buy because they are very well optioned.

major points to look at is condition of the soft top and look for bad corrosion under the battery tray. If you put the clitch in and hear a sqweeking noise that means that the throwout bearing has seen better days but is not a deal breaker, just an indication that your going to be pulling the transmition within the next few years for some minor service if it becomes a problem