Identifying Suspension Modifications

[Jimboberina]

Hi all, I've test driven two 2006 NC RS MX5s, both imports. My favourite car has bilstein shocks (which I understand to be standard on the RS), but also red springs (the other car has more stock looking black springs). The red spring car has a slightly heavier, more direct steering feel (in a good way!) but I'm unsure if these are a factory upgrade or aftermarket. The ride height doesn't appear to have been significantly altered.

Is there anything I should be looking for, the car doesn't appear to have been 'tampered' with otherwise and doesn't seem/feel thrashed (believe original tires at 55K with life left). I was planning to get the wheel alignment checked prior to purchase to see if there's anything too far adrift.

The dealer wasn't able to shed any light things so any suggestions gratefully received!

thanks

James

[Gordon Tucker]

Hi James,
The RS NC stock springs are black. I replaced the springs on my NC at 4k to lower and get a "sportier" feel to the handling. Ihave been very happy with the outcome. If that is the original tyres, they have got exceptional wear from them. The original Michelin tyres that came on most early NCs are lucky to get 30k. I need to replace mine shortly and am looking forward to changing to the new Toyos to improve grip especially in the wet. Unfortunately I destroyed one tyre around 12k ago, so I will try and sell it to someone that may have had a similar problrm. If you buy the red spring car and wanted to change to standard RS springs, I have a set done around 4k.
Gordon

[brownie]

Probably AutoEXE springs, google there site,They are what Mazdaspeed used to be before it got watered down.
Mazda specialist