I’m an mx-5 enthusiast and student software developer, as a project I am designing a database that contains information on all models (NA-ND) and types (1.8s, miyako, S-vt sport etc.).
So I am talking about things like displacement, exhaust info, anti roll bar and brake size and obviously basic info like power output and mpg.
If the database works well I’m considering developing it to a website as a trial, possibly including other vehicles but I will stick with the mx-5 that I know for now. I am just wondering what you guys think I should include, things that would be really useful to you when you where purchasing your mx-5 or ones you will purchase in the future and info you would like to know when modifying? ALSO if it does work well, would you guys tend to use this or do you think its best left as a project?
I’m not convinced that a database is the right approach as there aren’t that many models so not many data records.
Entering and retrieving information would be a pain.
I would suggest that a wiki would be more useful as an extensible MX-5 knowledge base. Wiki pages could cover different aspects e.g. suspension, brakes etc etc.
Designing the initial wiki structure is a good challenge for you.
A wiki that I can recommend from personal experience is Atlassian Confluence.
Well because its not a commonly updated topic I did not intend to use a wiki. There isn’t much data you are right as project though (aspiring DBA) I’m designing as if it is a large database if you catch my drift but obviously if I think its worth it I will design it to work well as a website. Reason I post is there is always a forum about people asking which models have torsen diff etc.
I tend to disagree with this point of view, there may be few models, but there are far more variations, even among models. Granted these don’t relate to mechanicals, but levels of trim, type of wheels and other modifications carried out by MCL pre 2002. This trend was carried on by Mazda itself, varying similar models in different ways, as a few examples - MCL modifed the early BBR version into the limited number of Le Mans models, as well as making quite a few named groups of NA’s; Mazda gave the 2003/2005 NB Facelift some additional equipment either not on the 2001/2002 Facelift NB) or as extras on the Sport model. Heated side mirrors, LSD and also heated seats on some. I, for example still have the 2002 brochure which lists the variations on the NB for that year, others may have brochures for both earlier and later cars.
There’s some limited info on Oxfords own website, but it reads the same for every year up to model changes. Borne Road Mazda also has some later variations, but little info re the MCL cars.
There could be quite a few owners out there thinking they have a standard Mk something, not realising it may be a modified MCL version, or a modified Mazda one. though some might be hard to pin down. A lot of detail about MCL variations is hopefully still available, and I know a man that might be able to help, though he hasn’t worked for MCL since 2002, when Mazda took over sales and distribution in the UK.
Then there’s the Eunos model, made for the JDM, which also has variations, even among models. Saz has a lot of that info which he may be willing to share with you, you’d have to ask him. The Miata doesn’t really come into it as I see it, I only know of one (maybe two) Miata’s imported into the UK, and Miata.Net is a minefield of American information.
So - I see it as invaluable, but a lot of hard work. Some owners would be willing to help, and newcomers would value that information when looking for the right car, or relating what they’ve got to the right modifier and type of model (issue) There’s also queries from enthusiasts as to which type of gearbox, rear axle, type of LSD etc would suit their requirements , and this would help them find them.
I can’t speak for the Club or admin, but this would be an ideal addition to this website, others may disagree.
It’s a good idea in principle and could be a very good resource, inputting the data could be a headache though but I don’t know if you computer knowledge can make that simpler. If you’re a club member you can have a look at my Special Edition Register (excel based), it may give you an idea of where to start. You could use that data as a start point if you like and work from that.
You’re correct Martin - don’t know what I was thinking at the time! Perhaps subconsciously I was thinking that suggesting anything new on this forum is like walking into a minefield! (Recent Poll!)
Another source occurred to me - waking up at 4.30 this morning - Our Archivist (Andrew Fearon) was collecting brochures from day 1, and used to ask for them more lately, so I don’t know how up to date his collection is, but would be worth contacting him to see if he can help? His email address is in STHT, or you can PM me and I’ll let you have it it.
Also - while this information may only be useful for a few members with particular aim in mind, rear axle ratios could be useful, plus the compatibility of different gearboxes would also help. Not sure this information is readily available, so needs thinking about. Maybe a separate section, showing specific information relative to engine/gearbox/rear axle/diffs and rear drive shaft compatibility between different MK’s? Not my field, so I can’t help with that.
I’ve felt for some time that the club website ought to be a treasure trove of MX-5 info. The current site doesn’t necessarily lend itself to such an undertaking, but the next one…well it’s been a consideration from the start.
With a database, every time you want to add a new characteristic, you have to ask the database developer for an update. With a wiki you just make the change, maybe adding a new tag so people can find it again.
If the original data is correct, then where’s the problem? A database is secure, a wiki style isn’t (check wiki - always asking for other opinions or verification) You can get individuals tailoring a category for their own purpose, which defeats the intent of the original. The OP can pass the site to the O/C administrators, which would surely solve any future issue? That assume the OP is willing to pass his hard work onto the Club of course, that’s up to him to decide.
That there may be a price to pay is also up to him, but in terms of graft I think it’s worth something,. That’s up also to the Committee to consider, not us mere mortals. (which they are anyway!)
I’m sure the OP will learn from his experience. He is going to develop some code which only he will understand. I don’t know whether anyone else will want to maintain it.
Wiki’s don’t need coding, although they do need to be organised. I don’t think this forum is the right place to go into any more detail. I should probably add that the usa Miara forum’s wiki project seems to have stalled for lack of interest!