I would be wary about changing parts without being clear why you are changing them and what you hope to achieve by doing it.
The tyres are going to make the biggest difference I think, combined with a good alignment.
Lowering the ride height will improve the handling but is expensive so do your research before choosing what to go for. You will have to have your alignment checked after fitting so makes sense to do this before the alignment though.
I went for 215 width tyres when I changed mine, this gives more grip and more tyre choice but will give slower turn in than 205s plus more unsprung weight , once you start messing with things there is often a trade off!
ARBs are not needed by a lot of people once they have done the lowering and alignment though so depends on the individual and how knowledgeable and sensitive they are. I dont think you need to worry about them yet.
It takes some time to learn about this kind of stuff so do your research and dont expect to get the perfect set up on your first go.
Yes, toyota racing development, its hard to change mx5 badges because of the retaining pins and bonnet indent making it hard to cover the holes. This badge would be too flimsy for the exterior of the car.
Get yourself down to a local club drive and chat to some owners about their cars if you havent done already to see what they have done and get some ideas and tips.
Personally I’d start with the easier things first and work through things until you get what you want.
I’ve personally always felt standard mx5s lacked abit of steering feel.
A good alignment should help and isn’t a major modification.
Tyres can make a difference, a sportier tire with harder sidewalls will amplify steering feel and a lower profile will increase “road feel” but you may lose some ride quality.
Changing your dampers for adjustable dampers can also adjust your feel a little by altering your handling balance but again your ride quality may suffer.
Replacing bushings for poly bush can also change your feel but may increase NVH and introduce squeaks etc.
As others mention change your touch points can make a difference to the feel of the car. Even if it’s psychological it may help you get what you want.
Changing the steering wheel isn’t a huge undertaking and the vehicle will tell you with a light if there’s an issue with the module once it’s reinstalled. (They can be replaced etc) so as long as it’s handled with care it should be fine.
Biggest tip would be get the alignment set by someone who knows what they’re doing and see how you feel
Thanks people. Turned out to be a good thread. Still not sure on the steering wheel change; with all the messing about with the airbag that will involve.
