Finally picked up my 1991 MX5 special edition today. Felt fantastic on the ride home, after only driving heavy modern fwd cars before it was a change for the better. The ride is rough but fun and the steering is very light.
One thing I am wondering is what is a normal oil pressure? I’ve never had a car with an oil pressure before, this reads 30lb/in2 at idle and 60 when driving, is this ok?
i’m afraid i haven’t a clue about the oil pressure query (but i’m sure my Mk1 does not vary when at idle or when driving)…but have fun in your ‘5’!
The early MX5’s had a proper Oil Pressure Gauge - and I think your readings sound OK … when hot and idling it should be down low.
The later MX5’s didn’t have a real Oil pressure Gauge - it is essentially a damped switched needle, either ON or OFF … it is damped to give the impression of a rising Oil Pressure. But it just sits there, not moving, whilst driving. Think of it as an Oil Pressure warning light, if it is pointing up you are OK … if it hasn’t moved up at all, shut the engine down and call for back-up!!!
I think the MK3’s have working Oil Pressure Gauges - I do like to see them vary whilst driving.
Is there anyway to tell what size the engine is?
It was sold as a 1.6l, but this says it’s a 1.8: http://www.mx5-mazda.co.uk/ltdedition.htm
Also it feels way too fast to just be the 115hp of the 1.6, much faster than my 100hp focus instead of just a little bit which is what I was expecting.
Hi Congrates in getting your MX5
Sorry typo there. No 1800 until model year 1994 you have a 1.6
original brochure HERE
Mine doesn’t have those wheels or interior wood trim, shame because it looks nice.
I guess the car is just unexpectedly fast because it’s so light.
What number out of the 250 is it?
It should have a Certificate and a Plaque.
Number, 29. Don’t have the certificate unfortunately just the plaque.
Well, it is 20 years old … shame how some paperwork gets lost along the way.
Hope you enjoy it! I’m sure you will …