Mazda MX-5 (2005 - 2015) 2.0i 2d Roadster Coupe (2007/57) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

It says that you want to have straightforward fun and a bit of style rather than buying a more serious car that has less substance to it such as a BMW Z4.

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

They love it, in Copper red colour the RC looks tremendous and is different to the typical german sports cars we see all the time. My friends who are also car enthusiasts always go on about how great it handles and love being a passenger in it. Also been mentioned how phenominal it was on a track day at Elvington air field.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Absolutely, I have searched the entire list of cars and cant think of any other car that is as pleasurable and fun to drive as the MX5 but still has a bit of refinement (i.e folding hard-top, heated seats, BOSE sound system) and is a comfortable commuter.

What are you likely to buy next?

Honda S2000 or Nissan 350/370z, possibly an Audi TT I would love a bit more power but as I say before, none of these cars can match the MX5's qualities and none has a folding hard-top roof S2000: A drivers car but lacks refinement of interior and for commuting, running costs not great, engine needs to be worked hard 350/370Z: High running costs/insurance, less stylish Audi TT: great refinement and running costs but not a drivers car- not as fun to drive.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£7,000

When did you buy the car?

April 2012

Did you get a good deal and why?

It was £1000 cheaper than other 2.0 Roadster Coupes purely because of its high mileage at the time of 83k miles. I had to pay for road tax but due to MOT I was able to have 2 new rear tyres and front pads/discs fitted without having to pay for them.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Affordable 2 seater sports car for a young driver with a passion.

What was the dealer like?

A bit forward and forceful rather than listening to what I was telling him. It was all sorted in the end.

What's it like to drive?

Once you replace the stock (raised) suspension and put it back on to the original Eibach lowering springs (what it is supposed to be on - google it) The car drives like an absolute dream. Exceptional driving position, grips likes a go kart and has enough acceleration and sense of speed to keep you pleased. On a day to day basis it is such an easy car to live with but it excels on the country roads and track days. Great stability in to corners, keeps on giving and never had a fault with it yet.

What's it like to park?

Has a great turning circle, visibility is good/decent and when the roof is down you have a 360 view. Always best to take care of getting out of the car when parking in a tight gap as it can be harder to get out of.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Not a single thing has gone wrong with the car since owning it for over a year and this is one of the higher mileage cars too!

What's most practical about your car?

Despite the fact it is a 2 seater sports car, the suspension is very comfortable over bumps in the road and comfy to sit in. It makes the car good for commuting and the boot space is very credible and impressive especially considering it also has a folding roof to make space for.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

3 favourite gadgets about the car. 1. The most commonly used is the heated seats they work a treat and wouldn't want to go without them in winter. 2. The DSC off button is easily accesible near the steering wheel and can be changed instantly just by pressing the button for whenever you get the mood to let the back end out or have a bit more of a fun drive. 3. Used least due to weather but the party piece has to be the electric folding hard-top roof.