Mazda MX-5 (1990-)

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  • Economy

    Value

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Good value for money. A lot of car for little cash.

    Costs

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Low cost, low maintenance and could do some maintenance due to the simple nature of the engine. I haven't found replacement parts to be overly expensive, but then again I haven't needed many.

  • On the road

    Driving

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Great fun. A little skittish in the wet, but good set of tyres helps. Predicable holding in dry and doesn't mind a bit of welly.

    Performance

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Not the brightest, but light weight helps performance. Nippy and neat. Also have a 1.8i MX5 Nevada which is only marginally better on performance.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Excellent. Owned for seven years now and only one problem ever, that was solved by a new battery.

    Image

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Beginning to date a bit, but plenty of enthusiasts about. Slowly aging into a much loved classic.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Not bad, but it can be a little uncomfortable for long journeys and misses some of the refinements in later cars.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    1 out of 5 1.0

    CATII alarm and immobiliser fitted, but worth it. Still have car and the fact its a convertible doesn't seem to have made a difference.

    Service

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Excellent. I also have a MX5 Nevada LT 2003, RX8 2004 & E46 3 Series. I have experienced much better service from Mazda than BMW. My experience of Mazda service has been first rate. Nothing is too much trouble for these guys.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    None in 100k miles. Able to do my own cam belt changes. Flush oil every 6000. Runs as good as new.

    Other

    Rear brake callipers sticking, but think that was due to poor maintenance before I purchased the car. Some minor parts such as indicator return sleeve. New hood, but that was to be expected for age. Windscreen wiper mechanism replaced, but quite cheap.

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    Used

    Would you buy the same model again?

    Yes

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes