Miata Seats in Mark IV

[jmorgan]

So, I have looked around on numerous forums and cant really find the guidance I was hoping to find. Several years ago I completed my build of a MK4 and used the low back seats from FFR. After replacig the low back seats in my TR6, I bagan thinking that doing the same mod on my Cobra would provide a much safer ride. I just found a set of 1990 Miata seats and plan to order kits from Mr. Mike to reupholster them like I did with the Miata seats I put in the TR.

Based on all that, has any attempted/succeeded in doing such a modification? If so, what was needed to adapt the Miata seats to the Cobra mounting points and were you able to use the slides from either the FFR or Miats seats to adjust the Up/Back position and was the tilt mechanisms still operational?

Thanks in advance for any info on this task before I move forward. Pictures would also be nice if you have them.

Thanks

[Jeff Kleiner]

If you are truly concerned about safety you need to realize that the Miata seats are not compatible with the harness shoulder belts. Since these seats lack holes for the belts they have to come around the wider upper headrest area rather than straight down over your shoulders. In the event of an impact the belts will get taut as the occupant's body goes forward and will squeeze the seat before containing the person. Just something you might want to think about...

Jeff

[jmorgan]

Jeff,

Totally understand your comments. I typically drive my Cobra for pleasure trips on Texas backroads or to car club/show meetings. My concern is more about getting rearended than hitting something in front of me. The improvement in safety factor on my TR6 when I swapped low back seats for Miata seats is significant and think doing a similar swap in the Cobra would work well for me. Just hoping I can find someone out there to provide guidance on how best to do it.

Thanks again for your comments.

Joe

[cv2065]

Here's a good thread on the topic. I agree with Jeff in that you want to use your shoulder harness. If that is compromised, I would think the rest doesn't matter, front or behind impacts. Lots of safer seat options to get to where you want to go. Even adding headrests to your stock seats is also an option.

https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/showthread.php?31050-1994-mazda-miata-seats