• Summary

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What does this car say about you?

    That I'm a poser, I enjoy driving, I like to be the envy of all - and I don't like spending money on repairs or high insurance!

    What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

    Sheer jealousy! It's the car they'd all love to own! When it's a question of `Who's car?' it's always mine!

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Yes, definitely - it's reliable, responsive, reasonably economical, value for money, good-looking and most of all - fun!

    What are you likely to buy next?

    I'd love another MX-5 but an injury probably means it'll have to be a 'grown-up' car, possibly automatic. I shall sorely miss my pride and joy!

  • Buying experience

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Didn't buy from a dealer

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £14,000

    When did you buy the car?

    August 2012

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    The previous owner couldn't get his golf clubs in the boot and his wife wouldn't lend him her car - and he'd already bought the replacement!

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    My previous MX-5 (2004) was brand-new, fun to drive and admired by all. It was fun to drive, clung to the road in all weathers and most important, reliable. The only spare part I ever bought was a bulb for the rear registration plate light! The power roof means I do not have to stow the top away in summer and can enjoy top-down motoring in any weather, even winter, as the cabin is virtually draught-free.

    What was the dealer like?

    A very nice man who put no pressure on me at all.

  • Driving it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What's it like to drive?

    The car is a pleasure to drive, whether it be in town, country, down country lanes or climbing hills. It clings to the road when cornering and has good acceleration.

    What's it like to park?

    Fairly easy - but I'm small and the rear pillars are quite wide. However, I've never had any trouble getting into a space. My taller son does not have this problem.

  • Living with it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Absolutely nothing - I've come to expect that of the MX-5.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Probably nothing (though I have sneaked under tape barriers). The boot is significantly bigger than my previous MX-5 - but I wish I had a get-you-home spare wheel instead of the inflator.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Not really a gadget - the folding roof. I can have it up or down in seconds, as soon as I pull over. My other MX-5 had a hard top but it was taken off in summer and reloaded in winter.