Mazda MX-5 (1990-)

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  • Economy

    Value

    4 out of 5 4.0

    A great 2nd-hand buy - the combination of reliability, looks and driving pleasure is rare at this price.

    Costs

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Fuel economy disappointing for a 1.8. Parts expensive.

  • On the road

    Driving

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Handling sharp, not the fastest, but definitely a sports car in spirit.

    Performance

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Needs 4000+ revs to feel like a sports car. Get the gear changes right, though, and put paid to those "hairdresser" comments for good.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    4 out of 5 4.0

    No problems yet that weren't my own fault (I crashed it).

    Image

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Eye-catching but unpretentious. Not a boy racer's car, which is a plus in my book.

    Comfort

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Feels raw without any sacrifice of comfort. Taller drivers might disagree.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    3 out of 5 3.0

    A bright yellow convertible is an easy target for thieves, so I'm careful where I park it. There are lockable compartments, at least.

    Service

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Salesman was professional and rang me up after 2 weeks to see how I was getting on.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Other

    Light stalk is easy to mishandle - you can activate full beams when you mean to indicate, and vice versa.

    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