Mazda MX-5 1.8i S 2d (98) (2000/X) Owner Review
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Economy
Value
Used values still strong, but you are getting the best affordable roadster ever built. Engineering quality is undeniable.
Costs
Not cheap to buy or insure, but fuel consumption averaged 32 mpg in the year I had it. Doesn't seem to use much more fuel when thrashed, or much less when driven gently. Interestingly, it would do 2 mpg more on Super Unleaded.
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On the road
Driving
Lightning quick steering and a real ""seat of the pants"" feel. Even rides acceptably. Oversteer is progressive and enjoyable. Like all light RWD cars, it needs some respect in the wet, but its clearly been set up by enthusiasts for enthusiasts.
Performance
Not the fastest thing on the road, but quick enough to blow away your average tin-top flotsam. Hair-trigger throttle response, raspy exhaust and felt quicker than it was. Couldn't help feeling it could do with a bit more grunt though.
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Living with it
Reliability
Flawless. All I did to it in a year and 13,000 miles was put fuel in, and top up the tyre pressures and screen wash. One main dealer service and a pair of rear tyres. That was it.
Image
On one hand there's the hairdresser thing, and on the other, it's a car that makes people happy and which has a blinding reputation as a driving tool. I would rather be seen in one of these than a BMW, put it that way.
Comfort
A bit snug for taller people, but the seats are comfier than in most family hatches, noise levels fine if you half stick to the speed limits, and the heater/demister is superb. More than comfy enough to use every day and in all weathers as I did!
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Security and Service
Security
Cobra CAT1 alarm/immobiliser fitted. Security and a soft top are incompatible ideas really though. Hard tops get nicked so make sure you buy a locking kit.
Service
Local dealer fabulous but expensive. Car returned immaculate and never any question that everything was done properly. Courtesy car offered as a matter of course.
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Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
Other
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