Tips for those interested in buying a mk1 (pre 1997) (Mazda MX-5 1.8iS)

Member Name: MissTierney

Product:	Mazda MX-5 1.8iS
Date:	31/01/09 (213 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Comfort, style, reliability, pop up head lights!

Disadvantages: not a family car!

Hairdressers car? Boat on wheels? Yes we've all heard it but who cares! Maybe i would if these people drove it and still said the same thing!

I bought my MX5 around a year ago, its a UK 1996 mk1 in black. I was in desperate need of a reliable car and Mazda don't seem to ever let anyone down! I bought mine off a young lady who had kept it serviced and in good condition, and duly snapped her hand off.
If you are looking to buy a mk1 mx5 (pre-1997) when you are going to view please note the following;
- Do you want a Uk car or an import? An import will generally be more expensive to insure, but the car will usually be in better condition due to it being born and bred in a more car-friendly environment i.e. no grit or harsh weathers! A UK car will have a long rectangular registration plate. An import will have a more squarish looking plate. The UK car will also have a serial code on the underside of the bonnet which is i think 15/16 digits long. Aircon is pretty standard in the import and rather rare in a uk model. Look out for roadster badges as well (this will imply it is an import).
- Look for rust, even the latest of the mk1's are over a decade in age now so if it has not been treated properly (with the love and respect it deserves!!) the prone places for rust are on the underside of the wheel arches which eventually spread and weaken the metal joinings.
- You can always change the hood for a plastic, mohair, or hardtop but they don't come cheap so if the hood is looking worn, damaged, or most importantly will leak! Then add this into the expense of getting the car as it will be a necessary job. I personally have a mohair top with heated glass windows, which is more expensive than a standard plastic top, but makes the car look much more attractive.

As for the drive, its rear wheel drive so you just swing around the corners and roundabouts its wonderful! Be wary in wet or icy conditions though it is easy to lose control. I can't really say anything else other than test one (a 1.8 if you can) because no review could express the joy
:)

p.s. pop up lights!!

Summary: The cheapest way of having the best driving experience!

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