In the late ’80s two different manufacturers were making two very different two-seaters. One was a cute roadster with a small engine, light curb weight, a manual transmission, and rear wheel drive. The other was a shortened, hand-made version of a larger product with a healthy V6, leather seats, and an automatic transmission. Certainly, these two cars were aimed at different audiences.

So why are they here on Hooniverse together today? Because they are both up for sale for around $10,000 and they are both extremely nice, low-mileage survivors. 

Let’s start with the Miata. This particular car is a gem. The seller claims it only has 18,000 miles on the clock. It seems that most Miatas have been used as they were intended – a great little car to flog and mistreat. Most are pretty beat up by now. This one, on the other hand, appears to be lightly used and in great shape. Find the ad here at ksl.com.

For anyone who always wanted one when they came out, or who wants to relive the feeling of driving one in their younger days, this would be a great car. On the other hand, $10k is a lot of money for a 25 year old Mazda. 

So, if you aren’t convinced that an old Mazda is the place to spend your $10k, how about a more substantial Buick? 

The Reatta was originally slated to be a halo car for Buick, but ended up (as many concept cars do) as relatively neutered version of the original idea. GM decided that, rather than create a proper sports car with sports car performance, they would aim at the personal luxury coupe market. The Reatta was fitted with the ubiquitous and reliable Buick 3800 and an (sad trombone) automatic transmission. 

The Cadillac Allante was in the same category as the Reatta. Why GM thought that two personal luxury coupes in the same family were needed is anyone’s guess  The Reatta ended up as a bit of a flop  Instead of the 20,000 units per year that were projected, only 21,750 were made in the model’s four year run  On the plus side, the low production numbers make this a rare car – particularly in this condition. The seller claims that it only has 40,000 miles and has been meticulously cared for its whole life.  Find the ad here at ksl.com.

So, which is it going to be? Either of these cars would make a fun weekend driver, with one being much sportier and actively fun, while the other would be more comfortable and posh  As time goes on, the rareness of the Reatta might add to its appeal, while the Miata’s built-in following will keep its value high.