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The car in question is a 1990 model. I've come across this article on miata.net (dated several years ago, FWIW) that indicates a fairly serious potential problem with the 1990 and early 1991 crank, known as the "short-nose crank" syndrome. Anyone with 1st- or 2nd-hand experience with this issue would be appreciated. PM me if you prefer.
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Both of ours "were" short-nose cars. One actually succumbed to it -- and it was dramatic and quick when it went south. The other never had a lick of problems with the short-nose, but I ended up installing a later 1.8 engine in lieu of a head replacement.
Miata engines are cheap and easy to swap. The short-nose wouldn't keep me from buying a car, as it is relatively easy to prevent with care and diligence. There is even a fix for a damaged crank.
For what it's worth, if the crank pulley has 8 slots, the car is not a short-nose, but if it has four it is.