04/04/2026 12:55 am
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Honestly so frustrated with how much body roll im getting on my 2017 ND right now it feels like a total boat when I take corners around the hills here in North Carolina. I was looking at sway bars but then my logic was if I spend the money there will I still be annoyed by the lack of punch? I got about 1500 bucks saved up and I need this sorted before my track day in late October. So I was thinking maybe a cold air intake and some better pads but everyone says intakes are useless on these cars? I just want it to feel sharper and actually move when I hit the gas... what should I prioritize first so I stop hating my commute?
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04/04/2026 12:55 am
In my experience with these cars over the years, you're definitely right to be annoyed by that body roll. The ND1 comes from the factory with a very soft setup that feels a bit floaty when you're pushing it. Skip the intake for now... honestly, everyone is right, they're basically just noise makers on this engine and wont give you the punch you're looking for. Fixing the footwork should be your first move. Getting some Eibach Anti-Roll Kit Sway Bars will flatten out those corners and make the car feel much more composed. Since you have a track day soon, prioritize your stopping power. Over the years I've seen too many people glaze their street pads on track. It is way safer to run Hawk Performance HP Plus Brake Pads paired with a high-temp fluid like Motul RBF 600 Brake Fluid. This setup keeps the car reliable under heat and gives you that sharp bite when you hit the pedal. Focusing on handling and braking first is the smart move before chasing power. A well-aligned Miata on good pads will always be faster and safer than one with a loud intake and stock suspension. TL;DR: Forget the intake. Invest in sway bars and track-spec brake pads/fluid to fix the boat feeling and keep it safe for October.
10
04/04/2026 1:20 am
Like someone mentioned, that body roll is a frustrating issue on the ND! If you want to stay under that 1500 budget and still have cash left for track fees, I have a few suggestions that are fantastic for the price.
- Progress Technology Sport Lowering Springs: These are amazing for the money and stiffen the car up significantly compared to the factory setup. It helps keep the chassis flat in corners without compromising your daily commute.
- Continental ExtremeContact Sport 02 205/45ZR17: Since you want more punch, high-performance tires are the best way to go fast. The turn-in response is incredible!! Youll carry way more speed through the hills. Dont waste money on an intake because the power gains are basically zero on this platform. Focus on tires and suspension first. Honestly, checking the forums for used parts or open-box deals is a great way to save money. Youll love how much sharper it feels on those NC hills!
4
04/04/2026 1:30 am
@Reply #2 - good point! I tried some generic power mods last year and was super disappointed... basically a waste of cash. Unfortunately, these cars run hot when pushed hard. I had some scary reliability issues with temps spiking on track. Honestly, just grab a big radiator from Koyorad Radiator. Safety and keeping the engine alive matters way more than a tiny bit of extra punch.