Mazda MX-5 (1990 - 2005) 1.8i 2d (98) Owner Review

1.8i 2d (98)
Mazda MX-5 (1990-)

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In their own words

I bought this car following the decision to break up my Mk2 Sport for parts as it had too much rust to make it worth fixing. It's worth mentioning here that this model is actually a Eunos S-Special (Eunos models are not on the Parkers drop-down menu), meaning that it's a highly spec'd car. Standard features include Air con, electric rear windows, limited slip diff, and CD player. The previous owner has fitted a Sony stereo with Bluetooth to help provide some mod cons, plus it has remote central locking for better piece. The hardtop is a nice touch, although it is a pain to take on and off when you have to lug up a flight of stairs in a flat! Storing in a flat isn't much fun either.... The car is great fun to drive, and thanks to a factory fitted lightened flywheel, it feels more responsive than my Mk2, plus it feels a bit more nimble thanks to a bit less weight. The car is great fun to drive and because it doesn't have a lot of power you can enjoy all of it without fear of losing your license. Having said that, I will looking to add a turbo at some point to make a bit more potent. I've already fitted a Cobalt exhaust and it sounds wonderful. It's louder than the stock exhaust - naturally - but it's not yobbish, it just helps to give a more throaty tone. I've only owned this car for a few weeks, but i look forward to many more weeks with this car to come!

How reliable do you find the car?

The airbag light has started flashing for no apparent reason, I'll have to do some research in to that one. The boot can also a bit temperamental, but that's because the carpet trim stops it from closing properly sometimes.

Does the car do everything you expected it to do?

It's great fun to drive, plus you can enjoy all the car without fear of losing your license! It looks great, and thanks to the iconic pop-up headlights, it looks deliciously retro - I love it.
  • How they rated it

  • Reliability: 4 out of 5 4.0
  • Meets Expectations: 5 out of 5 5.0
  • Overall Rating: 5 out of 5 5.0
  • Aaron Alleyne-Wake recommends this car

About their car

  • Fuel type Petrol
  • When purchased May 2018
  • Condition when bought Used
  • Current Mileage 83,000 miles
  • Average MPG 30 mpg