I can't imagine any 'corner shop' that could work on a Honda, not being able to work on a Miata. I haven't owned mine very long, but it seems to be nothing other than simple and straightforward so far.
I will admit that the earlier BMW's had some tricks that really needed to be known in order to service them well / properly. But, with OBDII, I can't imagine that any corner shop couldn't diagnose or even fix a typical problem with one.
I think the OP has clearly revised what he is looking for. Perhaps updating the OP might clear it up for more people (so it doesn't get lost amongst all of the replies). For anyone who missed it, he said that he now realizes that he shouldn't have used the word 'project' in his OP.
BTW: OP, you're not exactly right with your description of what most people think of when they hear 'project car'. Most of us who know, consider it to be a car that is not in perfect condition and will take some work to get it there. The car is not turn-key. But, instead a 'project'. It seems that you are looking for a daily driver that can be maintained by someone with (recently acquired) basic mechanical knowledge. Good luck with your education and search. Please be sure to post back and let everyone know what you ended up buying and how it is working out!
