Hi,
I’m currently in the market for an MX5 so i would like a little advice if possible.
My previous car was an MR2 roadster which was written off after a bad accident .
I was impressed with the MR2,s handling and performance but not the reliabilty (some serious engine issues seem common to pre 03 cars ) or practicality.
So how does the MX5 compare to the MR2 ? the performance figures seem fairly close.
I have roughly £6000 to spend, what could i expect for that and which is the best driver? sorry i know its a lot to do personel preference but you guys seem the best people to ask.
Is there any real world difference between the 1.6 and 1.8 or the sport and non sport ?
What mechanical gremlins should i be aware of beside the usual checks, are there any serious mechanical known problems and finally what mileage would you expect to get from the engine and drivetrain provideing it has been well looked after .
Sorry for all the questions bit forewarned is forearmed
Thanks
Jon
I would say a 1990 Mk1 1.6 and then spend some money on doing it up yourself, and still have a few grand left in your pocket.
If a 1.6, better to go for a 1991+ car than a 1989/90; “stronger” engine (revised crankshaft nose), plus they have useful chassis modifications.
1.8 is relatively weaker than the 1.6, but all Mk1s are getting old now, so expect an increasing incidence of rot, electrical gremlins, and transmission problems. Nothing in particular over and above any other car of this age to look out for. £6k will cover pretty much any of the Mk1/2/2.5. Wait a few months, and you’ll see Mk3s getting into this price range. Some Mk3s are already scraping £7k.
The cars aren’t worth doing up if in a bad way; parts are relatively expensive or, in some cases, unobtainable. Better to spend extra on a better condition example in the first place. Plenty around.
Slower car than the MR2, but less tyre sensitive.