i looked at an Elan before the Miata too. lovely little car. great engine, but parts are rare and expensive. the one i drove was white, which was not appealing to me either.
i also drove an early 80's Fiat convertible. GREAT little car. my body shop guys has it. he's looking for $10k for it. 25k original miles and it is BEAUTIFUL.
when the Ghia is done and sold, I'm buying it.