Faults:

The clutch slave cylinder was replaced at around 60,000 miles.

General Comments:

This has been one of the most reliable and fun cars I have ever owned. I would still have this car, had I not crashed it when I spun out on the freeway and got hit by a large truck.

Safety - For being so small, this car is very safe. This car handles so well you should be able to avoid and out handle any problems you may encounter. I was hit by a lifted F-150 at highway speeds, and I walked away with only a stiff neck.

Performance - This car is blast when it's revved up to VTEC range. I've had this car up to 130mph, and it used to cruise ever morning at 90mph on the way to work. The transmissions shifts are short and smooth. This car is a joy to shift.

Economy - I drove this car pretty hard... I averaged around 20 MPG.

Downsides - This car is absolutely terrible in the snow. The limited slip does help a lot, but it's still a 2750 lb rear wheel drive sports car.

Loved every minute in this car... never saw a check engine light or a engine temp above normal.

Faults:

My differential locked up and was replaced at 25,000 miles.

The transmission grinds from 1st gear to 2nd gear.

My transmission is whining and growling. The entire assembly is being replaced at 29,000 miles.

My rear axles make unusual clicking noises. Dealer visit fixed it temporarily, but the noise has returned.

General Comments:

Overall I like the car, however, I will be purchasing the extended warranty to 7 years / 100,000 miles. It is inexcusable to have the types of problems I have described in a brand new car. Fortunately my problems have been covered, no questions asked, under the standard warranty.

It is important to monitor engine oil level at every fuel fill stop, especially during the break-in period. Mine drinks about 1.5 quarts between oil changes.

The rear plastic window is difficult to clean properly, even with the proper supplies. You need to be a contortionist to get good access to it. It fogs up quickly from all of the plastic interior pieces "off-gassing". Fortunately this has been remedied with the 2002 model year: it has a glass rear window with an electric defogger.

Since this is a sports car, wear is extreme with the stock tires. There are harder compounds available that will extend tire life, but I enjoy the handling characteristics of the stock tires. I got 12,000 miles from the back tires, going on 29,000 miles on the front tires. Your mileage may vary.

On the positive side, the car is unique and attention grabbing. Its styling is great!

It handles better than any car I've ever driven.

The engine is magnificent and makes lots of power from 6,000 rpm to its 9,300 rpm red-line.

The shifting action of the transmission is smooth and precise.

The trunk space is limited, but you can carry more than a Miata and a MR2-Spyder combined.

The seats are comfortable for a 6 foot tall, 180 lb person.

It's a convertible!

Options? What options? The car comes with everything you need. A/C, cruise, power windows, power locks, power convertible top, ABS, CD player, and remote key-less entry.

Faults:

Nothing.

General Comments:

This is a pure sportscar with amazing refinement. Fit and finish are superb.

The 6 speed transmission and clutch are the smoothest I have ever used (Vette, Supra Turbo, Porsche, Z28, MR2 Turbo, Viper).

The ride is smooth with excellent feel and virtually no body roll. The 50/50 balance and light weight make this car a blast to drive.

Acceleration is amazing with a 6k rpm clutch release and then shift at 8k rpm and just hold on!

This is the best sports car I have ever owned at any price! I am also 6' 3" and 215 lbs, most cars do not handle my size well (Z3 and Boxster). The Vette was comfortable as well.

Maintenance costs are only $21 every 7,500 miles for an oil change.