Basically looking to ask anyone on here who previously owned a MG TF questions about potentially buying a 2.0 Sport NC…
Not had an MG TF but did own an MGF for a while. Although I don’t have an NC I have a later ND but can assure you that the build quality and standard of finish on MX5’s is in a different league to later MG’s. Make sure bodywork on the Mazda is rust free and budget for professionally treating whole of under side and you will have a car that will last for years and give little or no trouble whatsoever.
I was disappointed with my MGF roadster as it was drafty, rattly and fitted with an engine which required intensive care (head gasket) to keep it running - MX5’s are draft free, comparatively quiet and fitted with bullet proof engines.
I’ve just been for a test drive today,and was surprised how it felt. I remember when having the TF it felt raw and you felt like you were in a sports car feeling every thing. so was surprised to find the MX5 I drove felt exactly the same when I was expecting a more refined drive, does yours feel like the MGF but better with the better build quality.
Basically should a MX5 Sport drive like a family hatch back or is it a sports car feel.
Sorry to come across dumb and should have driven others but need to make my decision tonight or risk loosing the car.
If I had to choose between the two cars now it would be a no brainer - MX5 every time. Just come back from a 1,000 mile plus road trip to France, Belgium & Germany in mine and handled brilliantly (mostly top down too). I would not have even contemplated such a trip in my MGF (but maybe I had a poor example). My wife would agree with my choice too as she was also disappointed with our MGF.
One thing I would recommend though if contemplating a similar trip is to imagine you are touring on a motorcycle as there is very limited luggage carrying capacity! I shopped around and found a 3 bag kit for my ND from a European maker and we managed to include enough for our 6 days (and still packed too much)! Great for the trip but no room to bring anything back as gifts!
If you have the opportunity for a reasonably priced car which has full service history and looks the part then go for it - if you fail to be convinced you should be able to sell again easily as there is a large market full of enthusiasts out there.
I am not an MG basher - just wish my MGF had lived up to expectations of an MGB or earlier MG Midget (which it did not). Consider the MX5 to be an affordable Lotus Elan!
Hi Bruce,
I have owned the following MG’s…MGF Freestyle, and 2 x MGTF, plus the MG Motor MGTF…, since then I have owned 3 Mk3 MX5 and have never regretted a one moment…just to let you know there are 3 versions of the NC Mk3…NC1,NC2,NC3
regards
john
Hi guys thanks for the responses was never thinking of buying another MG just was surprised how much the driving experience reminded me of the MG to the point wasn’t sure if a MX5 should feel the same and everything was ok.
Don’t get me wrong I loved the MX5 while test driving and pulled like a train for the age and mileage 56 Reg 113000 miles just both me and the wife thought MX5’s would be a softer gentler quieter experience.
We’ve bought it so time will tell.lots of paperwork and from a guy who’s an enthusiast.
Having owned two Mk1s, a Mk3 and now a Mk4 I would say the Mk3 is more civilised and the Mk4 even more so. However driving my 3 year old Mk4 I still get the same sports car buzz I got from my first 17 year old Mk1. The original Mk1 designers evaluated MGs. Triumphs, Lotuses and probably more classic two seater soft tops to get the right feel for the MX-5. The DNA of the first MX-5 off the line is still there and has been right through the various models.
You won’t regret your choice. Only one word of caution, the Mk3 engine is only bulletproof if the oil is kept on the max mark of the dipstick. Also the early Mk3 dipstick is difficult to read. If you have one of these then replace it with a later improved dipstick or grind out the max mark to make it more clear.
Welcome to the addiction.
Thanks everyone don’t know how this has ended up in the insurance advise forum…