1996 Mazda MX5 1.8

Summary:

Underpowered and overrated

Faults:

Chassis rust, but can't complain as it's an old car.

Reliability is spot on, no problems whatsoever.

General Comments:

For me the best thing about this car is the gear shift - short throw, very positive and bolt action like.

I personally like the look of the mark ones - looks like a Lotus Elan. Quite like the simple layout of the interior.

Another cool feature on this particular car is the rubber centre of the steering wheel can be removed to reveal a Momo wheel.

That's the good points.

People often say that proper sports cars shouldn't be all about power and speed, but the MX5 takes the mickey. A 1.8 engine in a pretty light car should be so much keener than this. Even if you rev it to 6-7k, it still isn't pulling very hard and sounds harsh.

You're not actually sat that low. Granted it's a bit lower than a hatchback or saloon, but it's not sports car low. Not particularly comfy on longer journeys, but you can forgive it as it certainly wasn't built for that.

I don't think the feel from the steering and pedal box is anything special, just normal. People talk about the MX5 having almost telepathic steering. I disagree.

Fuel economy is terrible really. I've driven 3.0 V6s in much heavier cars that were maybe 5 MPG worse overall.

Lots of body flex going round bends or over bumps, which is a shame. Modifications can be made to improve this, but it would have been good if Mazda had this sorted as standard.

I thought it was a cool thing to bomb around in at first, but I'm bored now.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 9th January, 2016

1996 Mazda MX5 1.8i 1.8

Summary:

MG without tears

Faults:

Nothing much has gone wrong with this car.

Battery, two new tyres and a new exhaust.

Exhaust was only replaced because the previous owner bashed it on a kerb and the tail pipe fell off. I put a stainless steel big bore one on instead!

General Comments:

The 1.8 goes better than the 1.6.

Interior is a bit plain and plastic, but seats are comfortable even on long runs.

Hood is sound, but plastic back window prone to scratching.

Fuel consumption a bit heavy.

Handling is good, but original Japanese Dunlops are tricky in the wet. Michelins grip better.

The most reliable car I have ever had.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 13th November, 2002

18th Mar 2006, 14:49

I have owned a 1.8i for around 4 weeks now. I always fancied one and finally got it. All Ill say is GET ONE NOW. They are fantastic, mine has 118,000 on the clock and is running better than the wife's 90,000 mile scenic!!! Yes I get the "hairdresser car" Jokes, but once they ride in it it stops... I commute 90 miles a day in mine with no problem. The roof is good even with a couple of blemishes that I have patched up, but will need replacing at the end of the summer. Brilliant car, best I've had.

In reply to 18th Mar 2006, 14:49

5th Oct 2016, 20:25

I eventually sold this car in 2007 when we were moving house. As it got older the only issues it suffered were two broken coil springs. This is a relatively common issue as MX5 get older. The after market alarm fitted had a habit of draining the battery if left for 3 weeks, which was a nuisance during winter.

Other than that, it ran perfectly and was a joy to drive. I was sorry to see it go, but I needed the money at the time.

In 2014 I replaced it with a Mk3 MX5 2.0 litre, which is even better. :)

1996 Mazda MX5 1.8i 1.8i petrol

Faults:

Last six inches of the exhaust pipe fell off - replaced under warranty.

General Comments:

Great looks, great fun to drive, even better with the sun out, ran perfectly for the 18 months and 43,000 miles which I owned it.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 30th November, 1997