Forum:
Anyone got any tips on what to look for when buying a Mira Classic, only my daughter's learning to drive and plans to take my Coure from me!
Also, how do a tell an import from a UK model?
Anyone got any tips on what to look for when buying a Mira Classic, only my daughter's learning to drive and plans to take my Coure from me!
Also, how do a tell an import from a UK model?
Mira Classic
Hmm .. what to look for ... Same as on any car to start with, engine noises, suspension etc.
Specifics for a mira classic, should be similar to a Cuore Avanzato.
Turbo - check the turbo holds good boost pressure and doesn't chatter at all. The turbos seem to wear out around 75-100k and replacements are somewhat rare.
Rust - check the front subframe for spreading and splitting as none of them were rust proofed and the front subframes are prone to this, as well as being hard to find.
Air-con - if its a selling point on the car check it works.
4wd - if possible check it works. If its not in 4wd it will be difficult to check as the switch is under the car.
Not sure about differences between UK and imported Mira classics. I was told mines a Uk one, but couldn't really tell.
The v5 says declared new at first registration and my rally car (import) states declared new by importer at first reg on the v5.
If you haven't seen these sites check out:
http://www.zen70509.zen.co.uk/miraclassic/pages/mira.htm
http://keikarsinthepark.co.uk/index.php?action=forum
Buying Mira Classic
Many thanks. Not sure how to check the turbo for pressure but I have a fairly good mechanical ear. Have seen the zen page, but will check out keikars.
Weary
Boost pressure
Under hard acceleration (full boost) the car should pull smoothly, if its a little jerky then that could mean the turbos on the way out or there's a leak somewhere.
If the car has a boost gauge its easy to see if its at constant pressure ... a boost gauge is not standard fitment though.
Mira Classic
Have now bought the car. Let my heart rule my head! She's a bit rusty and after a steam clean to find an oil leak found a rusthole in the sump (and one in the exhaust downpipe). Much bruised and bleeding knuckles later, the sump is now off but knackered. Does anyone now of a good dealer? I've e-mailed Camskill and my local Dai-dealer but have had no replies.
Great fun car though, so worth the trouble. Even my daughter (who was embarassed to be seen in it!) is coming round, after I let her drive it.
Weary
Well done
Can I be cheeky and ask what you paid for it? I'm curious as I'll prob be selling my classic in a few weeks.
Why not pop down to your local dealer I've found that they're much more amenable when you go in person instead of making email enquiries. Mine was curious as they'd never even seen a classic before, but be warned dealer parts are expensive and have to be ordered from Japan so can be 2-3 months to arrive.
How bad is the sump? tbh I'd probably look at getting it repaired if possible.
We need pics and now you have a kei come and join us on kkitp http://keikarsinthepark.co.uk/index.php?action=forum
Chris