Hi can anyone tell me the difference between a MK1 MX5, in the 1.6 litre capacity?
I understand the lower power version has a catalytic converter fitted, but I’m not sure what else is different? Are there mechanical differences?
Perhaps best if I explain -I’m looking for a MK1 MX5, have seen a good looking lower power engine but low miles…is it worth considering?
If you had used the search you would have found
http://www.mx5oc.co.uk/forum/default.aspx?g=posts&t=1422
the car is also a basic spec with no power steering or electric windows (and steel wheels originally
Thanks for that. Seems to say lower compression ratio, different valve timing and cams.
Does anyone know if the valves are the same size? Just wondering if the 115 spec cams and altered timing would result in extra power.
Yes you will get about 105bhp if you use the early cams
It is still a poverty spec car though
Not sure if the spec would bother me too much -just trying to find a decent condition MK1 with reasonable miles.
The 90 bhp ones seem to come up, that’s all.
I know the lower power ones arn’t power steering, but is the rack a different ratio?
The equivalent Eunos at the same age will have more power either 1.6 or 1.8 and will have power steering.
In saying that just buy a car that is the best rust wise.
Do not go asking lots more questions just find a rust free car and enjoy it.
Good job Mr Grumpy isn’t answering this!!! 
There is no Eunos Roadster 1.6 after 93. Power levels are the same import or not.
Roadsters are available without power steering.
Keep looking, but rust is the most important thing.
Yes, not a different ration as such (a rack and pinion is essentially 1:1) but they are a different amount of turns lock to lock. 3.36 turns for manual steering and 2.8 turns for power steering.