Overview

The third-generation of the Mazda MX-5 adds layers of sophistication over the previous two. It’s roomier, more refined and easier to live with. Yet it doesn’t sacrifice the purposeful nature of Mazda’s roadster. As such it’s one of the best modern classic cars today

By far the main appeal of the MX-5 is how fun it is to drive. When new, it was in a class of one when it comes to delivering open-top thrills at a low price – something that continues with the latest generation. However, the third generation NC faced numerous rivals, a poor economic situation and less favourable tax regimes than before; it’s little wonder that the Mk3 isn’t the first car to spring to mind when you think ‘MX-5’.

Thanks to excellent steering and a nimble rear-wheel drive chassis, you can have fun in any ‘5 no matter how fast you’re going. Retaining the spirit of a modern British sportscar (which is what made the first one so popular, just eight years after the last MG Bs and TR7s left showrooms) has been done so well, it’s easy to forget that the little Mazda is built in Japan.

When new, this brilliant little sports car competed with the likes of the Mini Convertible and the Peugeot 207CC. As a used buy, it’s up against the bottom end of the Porsche Boxster market, the BMW Z4, and the Mercedes-Benz SLK as well as earlier MX-5s.

Mazda MX-5 Mk3 known faults and common problems

One of the most popular sports cars ever built, the classic formula of the original was updated in 2005 to create a very different car to the minimalist original.

The Mazda MX-5 Mk3 is incredibly good value as a used buy, though it shares the earlier generations’ propensity to rust. Highly-priced examples need careful inspection and the cheapest should be bought with care to be sure you’re not buying a project.

Buying guide

Common issues, and what to look for if you’re looking at getting one.

Bouncy ride

Generally the MX-5 has a supple ride, considering it’s a sportscar. But if the ride is really harsh there is most likely something wrong.

Damp issues

Convertibles can suffer from damp and mustiness, especially if forgetful owners leave the roof open in the rain. If the damp lasts, it can cause rust. 

Rust

Rust is a serious foe of older MX-5s and it seems like Mazda hasn’t learned its lesson. Look around the wheelarches, in the boot and behind the seats. If it’s visibly rusty there, imagine how rusty it is in places you can’t see.

Infotainment

Like with any car of this age, the CD player and FM radio might not cut it. Units capable of handling Apple CarPlay/Android Auto are an easy enough upgrade.

Engine failures

It looks like the 2.0-litre engine causes the biggest headaches. It particularly doesn’t cope well with low levels of oil. Oil level should be one of the first things you check when test driving an MX-5.

Piston ring problems

The piston rings in the engine can clog and the liners on the engine can wear. Specialists are well aware of this issue and fix it day in and day out.

Heavy clutch

MX-5s might be sportscars, but the clutch should be light and easy to use. If it’s heavy, it most likely needs changing.

Victim of its own success

These models of MX-5 are becoming quite cheap, and they offer an awful lot of performance for the money. 2.0-litre Sport models have a limited-slip differential, and as such, many may have been used as track day toys. Track days are hard on all aspects of the cars and parts wear out much quicker.

Convertible check

Make sure the convertible doesn’t have any leaks or tears. Faulty position sensors can make the roof stick half open too. So check it actually opens and closes properly.

Upgrades

If you’ve bought an MX-5 and it’s spot on, you might want to improve it. Popular upgrades include BBC sports suspension kits, engine modifications that unlock more power and even complete engine swaps.

What models and trims can you buy?

Your engine options are limited to a pair of petrol powerplants – one 1.8-litre and one 2.0-litre. The former has 125hp, is coupled to a five-speed manual gearbox and covers 0-62mph in 9.9 seconds; the latter is more powerful at 160hp, has a six-speed manual gearbox and can get from 0-62mph in 7.9 seconds. The 2.0 Sport also features a limited-slip differential and upgraded suspension.

There’s the six-speed automatic gearbox available on later models too, which can be mated to the 2.0-litre engine to do 0-62mph in 8.9 seconds. Later soft-tops are 1.8-litre only, with the folding hard top getting the 2.0-litre and automatic options.

The availability of a folding hardtop version, badged RC, makes it an even more sensible buy. The lightweight roof retracts in just 12 seconds, plus it comes with the otherwise optional air conditioning.

In April 2009 the MX-5 was facelifted, with slight styling tweaks, the introduction of the paddle shift automatic option and a stronger engine. Economy also improved.

Over the next few pages, we’ll review each aspect of the Mazda MX-5, taking into account its practicality, comfort, fuel economy and performance. If you’re short on time, you can also skip to our verdict page to see if we recommend the Mazda MX-5 Mk3 as a good used car.