Advantages: Great stylish drive Disadvantages: Lack of space
I was inspired to buy an MX-5 on a rare sunny english day. It has 5 speed manual gearbox, (rwd) ,unleaded petrol, 2 doors.
It looks great and runs great. Great for style on those sunny days and it sticks to the road so the handling is great.
I can usually get about 85 miles for £10 of petrol (usual petrol price 94.9p per litre)
The engine is very reliable. Never had a problem!
As mine is not electric, it can be a pain locking the doors and winding the windows down but when the roof is down, that doesnt matter.
My only critisism is the lack of space. I tried to put 2 suitcases in and was not successful. However you can buy some special mazda suitcases that fit perfectly in the boot.
Not a great car for the shopaholics out there, but if you are out to impress then the world is your oyster ...
damob123 09.08.2007
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Ciao members have rated this car review on average: helpful Review of Mazda MX-5 1.6i
Advantages: fun, stylish, easy to drive, convertible Disadvantages: fuel consumption around town, road noise on the motorway
avoiding the Eunos Roadster (The Japanese MX5 import) as insurance is generally higher and they tend to come with unknown history, mileage etc. Especially with the amount of UK cars now available on the 2nd hand market. The Eunos is easily identified by its square rear numberplate holder, badging and the vin numbers do not begin with JMZ. If you have any doubts about a car take the VIN number and contact Mazda who can confirm if it's a UK car.
Insurance wise, these cars sit in Group 12 which can be a problem for younger drivers.
Most companies will now insist on a Thatcham category alarm as well. At the age of 21 with the car on a driveway and 4 years no claims, a Thatcham 2 alarm system I currently pay £760 fully comprehensive.
Pricing (based on Autotrader)
1991 66,000 miles A1 condition £2800
1990 98,000 miles, fair condition £1900 ...
Having been given this car as a gift I was somewhat apprehensive fearing it's lack of practicality - I need not have worried, sure the boot is tiny and the rear window has no heater but once in the driving seat such worries are forgotten. The handaling and ride suit its sporting image and are superb as is the short gearchange. The roof is off in seconds and a powerful heater extend the topless driving year. Luggae can be stored in the ample glovebox with soft bags on the rear shelf or behind the seats dependant on the size of the passengers. Although no family car or mpv the mx-5 is the best drive I have ever experienced - try it next spring. ...
winprizes2000 30.11.2000
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Ciao members have rated this car review on average: helpful Review of Mazda MX-5 1.6i
