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Mazda MX-5 Convertible (1990-2005) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 4 out of 54.0

Written by Parkers Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

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Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 31 - 36 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

View mpg & specs for any version

Genuine UK cars hold their value better than the imports and insurance is lower, too. Servicing and fuel consumption are also very good so it’s a cost effective proposition.

MX-5 performs fairly badly on the eco front. With an average of 203 g/km CO2 across the line-up, its emissions are a touch high for a sports convertible. It’s worth noting that the line-up does not feature any diesel models, which typically produce less carbon dioxide than petrol engines with similar power outputs. The range is not very frugal, averaging 33 mpg.

The MX-5 was first launched in 1990, since when it has proven to be incredibly reliable with problems being few and far between. The revised model from 1998 is proving to be equally well-built.