Mazda MX-5 (1990 - 2005) 1.8i S-VT 2d (01) (2003/03) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

You either think they're a hairdressers car, or you've actually driven one and think it's great. I pulled up at the fuel station last week next to a MkIII and the owner came out of the shop and said 'nice car' to me. I think my MX-5 is very nice looking and I think the image it has is unfair. Guys who want to be 'Matcho' need to grow up.

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

Some of my mates tease me about it being a hairdressers car, but they're all jealous because they can only afford clapped out bangers. The petrolhead mates among me think otherwise and like the MX-5 a lot.

Would you buy this car again and why?

I love my MX-5 but I doubt I'd have another (at least not straight after). Simply because I love sports cars and there are so many others to try out! Plus I might require something more practical in the future.

What are you likely to buy next?

I really, really love the Mazda RX-8 R3, but am put off by the price, huge running costs and the fact that everyone says it drinks engine oil like crazy.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£6,750

When did you buy the car?

September 2008

Did you get a good deal and why?

The car was in amazing condition with only 28,000 on the clock. It looked and drove really well, I was sold! I still think £6,750 for the car was a very good price. It even came with a removable hard top.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I wanted a fun sportscar that I could afford to buy and run. MX-5 fitted the bill over all the others I looked at.

What was the dealer like?

Very friendly, very helpful and professional. Mike Wyatt was an independent dealer (select4ucars) in Swindon. Only downside was that i couldn't trade in my old car, but I sold it on autotrader anyways :)

What's it like to drive?

Absolutely brilliant! It really is great fun to throw around corners, there is no body roll thanks to the stiff suspension and it grips fantastically on a dry road (don't try driving it in snow, the back swings about everywhere!). And what's more, is that it's so comfortable to sit in. I'm 6ft and the driving position is perfect with a nice foot rest for your left foot. When cruising it's still comfortable to drive and smooth. The 1.8 is quick, but you really have to work it to get the power. I think Mazda could have fitted at least a 2.0 litre engine; there's plenty of room. 6 speed gearbox is nice though - the gearchange is THE best thing about this car; very short, smooth and snappy. I've driven a ferrari 360 and I'd say this car has a better gearshift. The brakes are good too, very fi

What's it like to park?

Easiest with the top off, a bit more tricky with the hard top on, and quite significantly more difficult with the soft top up.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Nothing mechanically - just had a 9,000 mile service and it only cost around £150 (don't bother going to rip off mazda dealers for service). I have noticed some rust development since I've had it, tucked away at the bottom of the rear wheel arches (towards the front) which is irritating.

What's most practical about your car?

It's a sports car...It has enough room for about two weekend-sized bags in the boot. But if you're buying this car for practicality, then why are you buying a sports car?

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

a small storage area on the left armrest tucks away nicely, where you have the leaver for the petrol filler cap and boot release.