The first MX-5 (Mk 1) appeared towards the end of 1989 (G reg) and was in production until 1996 (P reg), where it was replaced by the Mk 2. The Mk2 was in production until 2000, when minor revisions where made to make the Mk 2.5. A new version of the MX-5 (Mk3) will be launched towards the end of 2005 and is the first major revision since the Mk2.
The MX-5 Mk1 all have pop up headlights and came initially with a 1.6i 16v engine and 5 speed gearbox or 4 speed automatic. Later a more powerful 1.8i 16v engine was added. The Mk2 has fixed headlights to meet European safety standards and benefited from a stiffer body shell and revised interior, heated rear window and electric windows. The Mk 2.5 is visually very similar to the Mk2 but has a number of minor revisions
Grey imports are cars that been imported by a person or company from another country (normally from Japan) where they have had previous owners. In Japan the MX-5 is called the Eunos Roadster. Identifying an Eunos Roadster from an MX-5 can be sometimes be tricky, if in doubt check the chassis number, but in most cases the badge on the back will say “Eunos”.
The MX-5 and Eunos themselves are identical in engineering and quality. However, Mazda has modified both the MX-5 and Eunos to suit the local markets. The differences though are minor. When an Eunos is imported to the UK it will have to undergo an MOT and have the speedo re-calibrated to MPH.
When buying any 2nd had car you must be careful to check the cars condition, history and ownership. Eunos roadsters will have a Japanese service history, which may be hard to verify. After market modifications are also common on Eunos roadsters and replacements can be hard to source in the UK. When buying directly from a reportable importer they will check the history and condition of the car and perform the required modifications for the UK. Some insurance companies refuse to insure “grey imports” and Others may charge a higher premium than the MX-5. Main Mazda Dealers often refuse to acknowledge import cars at any level. However, they are many importers and independent garages who Will maintain them and supply spares. The Eunos Roadstrer are cheaper to buy, costing around 10-25% less than an equivalent MX-5. Also as Japan does not salt its road in the winter, rust is less of a problem on an Eunos.
The MX-5 is one of the best built cars made. The mechanicals are strong and if properly serviced, long lived. The bodywork is sound although early cars can suffer from rust. Always check the condition of the hood! Replacements start at £300. Clutch judder is a known problem on later Mk.2 and 2.5 cars
Not necessarily. A well maintained MX-5 should last well in excess of 100,000. One club member has a MX-5 with over 200,000 miles under the wheels. If you plan to use your MX-5 only at the weekends a high milage MX-5 can be a sound investment.
They are limited editions, with slightly different specifications to the normal car. These are usually cosmetic; different colour seats, special paint colour, additional extras from the options list i.e. style bars, fog lights etc. There are plenty of ways to customise your car, by used genuine Mazda accessories, or those from after-market companies such as MX-5 Parts and Moss.
Most insurers put the MX-5 within groups 11-13, depending on Model. Discount insurance is available to Owners Club members Through its’ own insurer. Any modifications to the car must be declared to your insurer, including those made before you boughy the car. If you are unsure it is best to have the car checked by a mechanic.
Orders are being taken for non-club members from 1st August. Likely delivery is November/December.
The main differences are engines; 1.8 or 2.0, flared wheelarches bigger wheels, and a larger redesigned interior. Full details from any Mazda dealer