Hm, an '04 Mazdaspeed MX-5 goes for about $14k, or just under. That's about what I'd priced out for an '01 MX-5 with aftermarket twin-scroll, aftermarket exhaust, projector retrofit, new wheels and tires, and some modified suspension equipment.
Well, the '01 would be the higher performing vehicle. And much more fun to build it yourself. :awe: