About the Mazda MX5
G v purchased this Mazda MX5 used for $11,500 (including all on-road costs) in 2019. G v wouldn’t buy this car again because: “I am happy with this one, it was low kilometres for its year, have spend $5000 in the four years of ownership, new alloy wheels, Bridgestone Potenza tyres, upgrade to a Magnaflow exhaust, new radiator, replaced front shock absorbers, etc. It’s a keeper this MX-5”
How reliable has your car been? Tell us about any issues.
It has cost money, I have learned sometimes low km does not always mean reliability.
A replacement radiator and exhaust, due to the car not having been used a lot, meant ‘work’ was required on it.
In its first 20 or do years the car only did 119,500km. In my ownership now just in 4 years I have covered 60,000km, as I enjoy driving it and often.
What do you think of the ownership experience with your car?
I love the car, the driving experience, the handling on twisty roads.
While not being hugely powerful, it is a joy to explore the car’s character, and it loves to rev. It has been a joy so far, I have owned a few sports cars MGB, Ford Capri Mk 3 V6, Ford Escort RS2000 and have loved them all, the MX-5 is definitely at the top of the list.
Are you happy with the price and features of your car?
Yes, I think what I paid for the car and what I have spend on it, it is still good value, the car is ‘on the button’ now and I have complete confidence in doing long trips in it, as it performs very well
What do you think of the performance and economy of your car?
Performance average, I think it could easily do with another 30 or 40hp, but maybe that is not what the car is about.
Handling is a strong feature and super gearbox Close ratios that when using the rev range to the higher , you are always in the immediate next power and when changing up. Economy is not a strong point when compared to modern cars, but no issues for me
What do you think of the technology in your car?
Old school, very minimal tech is just how I like it. I don’t even need a radio, as I rather listen to that throaty exhaust note as I wind through the gearbox
The feature of the warning sounds is more than enough tech!
What do you think of the ride comfort and handling of your car?
Tight handling Feel the road, sports car typical, as I love it, wind noise is good with top up or down.
The car could have been a bit longer in the chassis to feel totally comfortable, driving position is fine, I am 183 cm tall, however for some reason the passenger seat is just too small and uncomfortable… have no idea why the difference between the driver seat and the passenger seat.