Mazda MX-5 1.8i Nevada LT 2d (2003/03) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
Exceptional. Okay some of the build is mildly suspect, but its great value for money. I have an RX8 and E46 3 series and pound for pound would rate the MX5.
Costs
Reasonable fuel consumption combined with reliability. Parts a little expensive, but I haven't needed many! Nor should I expect too.
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On the road
Driving
Great fun. Something about MX5's that just seems to make me feel involved with the car. Also have an RX8 & E46 3 Series, but there is something special about the MX5 that just make it such an enjoyable drive even with the hardtop.
Performance
Great for the car. Likes the higher revs and performs better at 4k revs. Not for the boy racer, but good overall. Nice holding when dry, but proved to be a little skittish in the wet.
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Living with it
Reliability
Never an issue, so far, touch wood. Very confident about Mazda.
Image
Cool with the hard top. Turns heads. Limited additions for the knowledgeable or enthusiast in my eyes make a difference. Some of the more basic model don't look as nice.
Comfort
Not so good. I'm 6ft and find my right leg starts aching during not so long journeys. My wife has no problems. Not for long journeys and wind noise especially with a hard top can be annoying if it isn't adjusted properly.
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Security and Service
Security
Doesn't seem to be a problem. Also have hard top.
Service
Top rate. Good service from people who know what they're talking about and care. That's my experience of years of Mazda ownership. I also have other Mazda's and a BMW and would rate Mazda service over BMW anytime. My dealer is Pilling in Milton Keynes.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Other
Factory fitted hard top difficult to fit and ensure minimum wind noise. A little bit of fiddling sorts it out. Rust on under bonnet components, some quite bad on black fittings & concerned it may eat into body. Will be taking this up with Mazda warranty.
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