I am currently in the market for an NC MX-5 (ideally an NC2/3) and have seen one for sale in Southend, advertised with 7 (!!!) previous owners and slightly above average miles for the age of the car. The dealer has informed me that the previous owner was a family friend and had it for a year and a half, and has looked after it meticulously (as seen by the photos supplied to me of the engine bay). The only problem is I can’t go and easily view it as I’m in the north of Scotland and wouldn’t want to have a wasted journey if any of my questions could be answered and my mind put at ease.
So, the service and MOT history is pretty flawless since 2018 (although missing service history between 14-18) . The car also has the BBR 180 Kit with receipts, as well as BC coilovers and drilled discs (which would probably be swapped out).
I was wondering if anybody on here has any previous knowledge of the car, and/or whether this could be a sound buy, or to run a mile and look elsewhere.
I am happy to provide photos of the arches I have been sent via PM if any use.
Personally, the missing service history and the description including the misspelling of Mazda would make me uneasy. I would never buy a used MX5 without a thorough inspection of the underside first. The bodywork may appear good but the subframes can be severely corroded if they have been used over the winter and not regularly washed underneath. It’s a nice looking car from the photos but if you can’t look underneath or get someone you trust to do it on your behalf, I would avoid. Only my personal opinion of course.
Thank you. I did notice this, as well as the thread on here regarding the issue. If the owner can get to the bottom of the diagnosis that could be an option.
The only comments I can give are, if you’re not prepared to go look yourself (any car really) then find one that you can. It’s always a gamble getting pics sent, in the past I’ve been let down by that method, I always prefer to look for myself.
Now from the info it all looks pretty good, price wise ok. I would just like to know why after after the BBR expense and other stuff it’s now up for sale. I know folks circumstances change and all that.
Also noted, it’s not got the original Mazda 17" alloys, those fitted are aftermarket with Toyos fitted.
And concerning, the seller has left the last owners name and address on show (the receipts) but in your favour you now have a contact to ask any burning questions you have🤔
Welcome to the group, my first question is while I appreciate you are in the market for an MX-5 NC 2 or 3 what makes this particular car appealing, do you really want a BBR conversion if you are already thinking of taking the cross drilled discs off.
Second question is do you know anywhere local to you that is going to be look after a bbr modified car if you are not going to do the work your self.
If you are not prepared to ,make the journey and come back empty handed have you thought about having the car independently inspected ?
I do like the BBR conversion, but never really been a fan of the drilled discs generally. Happy to be proven wrong on this particular car though!
I do have a reliable mechanic who’s in the know with regards to MX5-s and modified cars in general. He was the one who told me about it, funnily enough.
I have considered an RAC or AA inspection, yes. Unsure if that would cut the mustard though.
In that case if I was worried about going the distance and coming back empty handed I’d wait for something to come up closer to home, that would only cost time and patience. Good luck.