I will soon be in the market for an MX essentially as a second “summer car”. With so much information out there on the different models it has become a bit confusing to reach a decision. The criteria are: no older than 5 years, not really bothered about engine size, service history and reliable (obviously). I wouldn’t mind going the extra mile and buying from a Mazda Dealer but would prefer giving my cash to a specialist in the North East who will then continue to service it etc. My budget is not a restricting factor (within reason!) and time is on my side as I am currently working in warmer climes but I don’t mind striking a deal from the summer onwards and put it under cover for a few months until my permanent return to Blighty. My question is, which model? and idea about what dosh I should keep aside. Thanks all.
Take a look at www.roadster-nc.com where you will find details on all mk3’s including all the various special editions.
Personally I’d go with a PRHT, particularly if its not garaged, and a 2.0 litre over the 1.8.
Special Editions are obviously a bit better equipped and have the added benefit of being a little bit more individual.
The later facelifted Mk3’s, the 3.5’s and 3.75’s, are both a better option than the Mk3’s. If you can afford either then I’d go for one of those.
Buy a car that’s been looked after with low mileage not the first thing you see.
Good deals to be had at this time of year at Mazda dealers particularly if the car has been sitting there a few months. You can set up email alerts off Mazda used cars web page so you can get a good idea what they are going for and useful if you are looking for a particular spec car or special edition.
Personally I’ve found both my 5’s to be cheap to run. Servicing costs haven’t been any worse than an average car. Nothing to really worry about on that front.
I would concur with Wolves MX5.
The mark 3.5 - sometimes called the mark 3 facelift, would probably be your best bet. These were made between approximately 2009 and 2013, and can be obtained at quite reasonable cost - a 5-year-old model will cost about ten grand. As they are extremely well built cars, and are totally reliable, a car this age, if well looked after of course, and not been abused too much or pranged, would be a good investment.
You’ll get a great big grin come across your face when you’ve got behind the wheel of an MX-5 - so enjoy !
Have fun.
Chris Phillips
Thank you both for your valuable comments. Armed with a specific model I can now start a more constructive search and acquaint myself with all things MX-5 (a pleasant change from the aviation sector from which I have recently retired!). More questions for sure to come but in the meantime Merry Christmas!
Hello and welcome When in the UK pop along to your area meeting and talk to the members and have a look at their cars.
Keep an eye on the for sale section on here.
Lovely looking Mk3.75 for sale in there at the moment if budget allows…
http://www.mx5oc.co.uk/forum/yaf_postst96864_2014-MX-5-3-75-Sport-Venture.aspx
Get it rustproofed and undersealed by a Mazda specialist as soon as you get it.
Having had all models of MX-5 over the years, I thought the Mk3 was the worst of the lot by a long way. If your budget can stretch to a Mk4 I would recommend a go in one to see what you think (or spend a lot less money and get a Mk2.5 and some rust repair).