Mazda MX-5 (1990 - 2005) 1.6i 2d (91) (1991/H) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Slowly losing the ‘girly’ tag as the older ones become classics.

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

They want to borrow it but not have it as a main car. My teenage daughter loves it my teenage son thinks its ok.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, I have never had a vehicle (other than my motorbikes) that has been able to put such a grin on my face. A sunny day, throw a picnic in the boot, put the roof down shoot off to the coast with your wife, partner friend or dog, and, if you use the most twisty roads you can find, you will be smiling (though watch out for a sunburn).

What are you likely to buy next?

Nothing, I’m keeping this until I’m too old to drive or I die.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£2,600

When did you buy the car?

November 2009

Did you get a good deal and why?

Ok, I was able to knock the price down as it was winter and ‘normal’ people don’t buy convertibles in the snow. I don’t know why but the love it or hate it yellow colour also seems to hold a higher price.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I bought the car for my wife’s 40th (this was cheaper than two weeks in Hong Kong which was my other option). She adores it but does sometimes get fed up with me pinching it over the family car (BMW 5 series).

What was the dealer like?

Fine, nothing good nothing bad.

What's it like to drive?

Quick rather than fast but so much fun on the twisty roads and while you may not have the acceleration and top speed of newer cars, our 20 year old MX5 will surprise many with its impeccable handling. Being so low you feel that you are travelling much faster than your actual speed which may help to keep points off your license. However, if caught in a motorway traffic jam you may find a large lorry pulling up next to you with its exhaust right by your ear. Motorways themselves can get boring but that’s probably the same for most cars. I can sit a 70/80 mph with the roof down and even hold a conservation but it is more comfortable to undertake motorway travel with the roof up.

What's it like to park?

Easy, its a small car with power steering.

Have you had any problems with the car?

I knew the clutch was on its way out so I had budgeted for that. One of the brake calipers failed the MOT so I had a reconditioned unit fitted which has proved to be fine. It has sailed through all subsequent MOTs.

What's most practical about your car?

Putting the hood up or down takes seconds.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

I laugh every time I use the pop-up headlights and I like the feel of the classic looking wooden steering wheel. Loads of aftermarket items can be bought to really personalise the car. Great for putting on your birthday/Christmas lists.