Installing a Sparco EVO QRT into an NB Mazda Miata
Overview
When I first decided to run bucket seats in my Miata, I couldn't decide which seats to buy. I knew the Sparco Sprint is a popular option for miatas, but I was ready to spend a little more, for a better seat. After all, I'd heard mixed reviews online.
I did some research and found that the Sparco Evo QRT fits well into a Miata. I then went to my local racing supply store to sit in one, and fell in love with the seat. I ended up finding the Sparco EVO QRT's on sale at Redline360 for just $775, a great deal compared to their usual price of $800+. So, I ordered 2 seats, 2 PCI side mounts, and crossed my fingers.
Install
I couldn't find any reliable sources on fit, which is why I wrote this blog post. I hope it helps someone out there.
Install is pretty straight forward. I installed the PCI baseplate to the car first, using hardware from the OEM seats. This required some trans tunnel massaging. I fastened the side mounts to the baseplate, but kept the bolts hand tight for easy adjustment. I set the seat as low as I could,(2nd from highest front slot, 3rd from highest rear hole) and fastened the front and rear bolts to the side mounts. To find a comfy position, I sat in the seat, and adjusted it by hand until I could comfortably push the clutch all the way down.
With a comfy position found, I carefully exited the seat and removed the rear bolts, using extra caution to not shift the side mounts from the baseplate. With the rear bolts removed, I tilted the seat forward access the side mount to baseplate bolts, all 4 of which I tightened. I then tilted the seat back down, and tightened the remaining 2 side mount bolts.
Overall, the seat fits decently. I'm 5' 8" and I have a couple inches from the headliner, and I need to be wearing a helmet and sitting straight to rub the headliner. The shoulder of the seat makes contact with the door card, and has created an indent on the door card. I'm planning to move the seat towards the transmission tunnel a few millimeters, to keep it from deflecting when the door is closed, which it does very slightly. But for now, the seat is in place and comfy.
You might be looking at these pictures and freaking out because I have neither a rollbar nor a real harness. Do not fear, I installed both a rollbar and 5 point harnesses shortly after installing the seats, which I ironically needed to remove the seats for.
I'll attach photos below of the install. Note that there's a fair amount of space behind the seat. Feel free to comment any questions and I'll do my best to answer them.
The End