Monza Special Edition

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2

 Hi

My names Verdun I have been a biker for 48yrs last bike BMW1100.  Decided to hang up my keys and buy a Mazda MX5 Monza 1997. Looks in great condition and believe it or not, does belong to an old lady. Could anyone help and give me some advice, on what I should look out for.

Took one out for a test ride and it was love at first drive

Thank you

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Hi Verdun

I have had a Monza for the last 7 years and one of the things to look out for, (besides the usual advice concerning cill rot and leaking hoods, which you will find in the buyers guide on this site), is to see if it still has all it’s original “Monza” decals.  There should be one on the front of the bonnet, and one on each side behind the doors.  Apparently, these were prone to peeling off (although mine are ok).  The absence of the decals could indicate a respray.  The Monza edition also had 14inch 5 spoke speedline alloy wheels as original equipment.  

I have seen several Monza’s on ebay and notice that not too many have kept the decals or wheels which to my way of thinking no longer makes them “special”.  They weren’t that well equipped to begin with!  Another thing to bear in mind is that like the Monaco version the engines were detuned to 88bhp, which is something that escaped my attention when buying mine.  Not that I am disappointed with the performance and driveability of mine - the engine is sweet and I bought it because I liked the fact that it was basic, was in good condition and had a full service history.

Have been tempted to change it from time to time, but as it is a weekend toy, I don’t feel inclined to upgrade to a newer model.  Went out for a drive on my day off today - glorious weather - hood down - car running great - presses all the right buttons for me.

Hope you find what you are looking for.

Regards

Bumblemouse

 

 

 

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G’day mate Welcome to the forum–

Forum Technical Index

Good luck with the hunt, just remember the above advice re: 88bhp. All UK 1.6 cars in the mid '90s were detuned. All imports were not.

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 Thanks for that hope to pick it up on Sunday

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Sound advice given for looking at sills / arches etc. as well as usual overall condition and level of care its had over the years, something which might be of use is this link:

http://www.mx5-3rdgenerationlimited.com/monza.htm

Which shows all the relevant info for the Monza edition - including the original brochure and specification, have fun.

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Hello Verdun,

Welcome to the forum and nice to meet you.

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 Monza is only 88bhp Sad

 

a 1.8 would have 40 more horses

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Hi Verdun
Croeso Waving

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 Thanks all, I am now the proud owner of a Monza Special Edition, although not looking forward to seeing my bike disappear down the road in a few days. Hopefully will meet some of you soon. My wife insists I keep my bike gear just incase, does this mean I can have a bike and an MX5.,but to dream.

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