Question 1)
I've read online that the 7" diff has some steeper final drive ratios.
http://www.solomiata.com/RingandPinion.html
In an N/A 1.6 it seems like it would be advantageous to have a quicker ratio in the rear. Thoughts? Has anyone ever done this? Anyone know where to find said R&Ps?
Question 2)
How long are the 1.6 miata axles vs the 1.8 axles? I'm trying to check the if the rear end on my miata has been changed. Is there an easier way to identify them? I know it's 6" vs 7" but I'm not sure where to measure from as it's bolted to the bottom of the car and rather difficult to get at.
It looks like the 4.77:1 ratio is easy to get ahold of at the least. Not too much steeper than the 4.3, but I've found 3.9:1 torsen back end for MUCH cheaper than the ever sought 4.3:1 that apparently all spec miata guys use.
http://www.kiapartsnow.com/genuine/kia-gear-set-final~mm05727110.html
http://www.turbomagazine.com/tech/0804_turp_kia_sportage_s2000_garage_tech/
This seems like a cheaper way to get a torsen in my life.
Probably the easiest way to check is the pinion flange. The bolts should be 2.6" center to center on a 1.8.
I have a 4.78 ratio torsen in my 1.6 Miata. Ring and pinion came from a Kia. It's fantastic, except on the interstate, where it's turning pretty high revs.
In reply to Keith Tanner:
Thanks, will measure it tonight.
In reply to JohnyHachi6:
Cool, good to hear someone else using the Sportage 4x4 RP. I'm not worried about interstate/MPG, the car isn't a daily driver.
