• Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    I really don't care about this.

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

    They love the car, but their opinion is not a consideration for me.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Possibly, but only if Mazda address the weak paint-finish and underbody corrosion resistance.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    If not an MX-5, a FIAT 500C Abarth, or BMW Z4.

  • Buying experience

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Didn't buy from a dealer

    Did you buy this car new?

    Yes

    What price did you pay?

    £16,000

    When did you buy the car?

    March 2010

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    I think I got a good deal, with a discount of approx £1,500.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Good discount from the dealer. Also, it was the spec I wanted.

    What was the dealer like?

    Fine. No pressure and polite, friendly and pleasant. He let me buy the car, rather than him sell it to me!

  • Driving it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What's it like to drive?

    The driving experience of the MX-5 is it's greatest attribute. Sharp handling, adequate performance, which can be fully exploited and strong brakes. This car will put a smile on any enthusiast's face when driven in a spirited fashion!

    What's it like to park?

    No problem, especially with the hood down.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Yes, there have been faults, one of which left me stranded in heavy traffic (failed crank-sensor). The paint finish is also very weak, resulting in excessive stone-chipping and scratches.

    What's most practical about your car?

    A two-seater roadster is not designed to be a 'practical' car, but it does have a useful boot and various cubbies in the cockpit.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    The soft-top - it is a great design which takes only seconds to drop or retract.