Faults:

The catalytic converter had a loud rattle, which we were told was just a loose cover. It turned out that it was defective, and had to be replaced. The new one cost about $300, and still rattled, but only for a while. Oddly, the rattle is gone after about a year.

There is a leak between the convertible top and the front parts of both windows, but the hard-top is leak free.

Other than that, its been great.

General Comments:

The car is fun to drive in town, but not ideal for freeway travel, as it is very loud, and you feel every bump in the road. You can forget about listening to the radio.

The car is lightweight, so it gets good fuel economy, 26 in town, 32 hwy. We throw extra weight in the trunk for traction in the snow.

It only seats two, so giving friends a ride isn't an option.

Because it is so small, we've had oversized pick-ups almost merge right into us, even though our car is bright red.

Faults:

Replaced the top.

Oil leak on front shocks, all 4 replaced.

Air valve was not functioning and replaced.

Whole car repainted because of fading paint and two rusted spots.

General Comments:

It is not a fast car, but it is a lot of fun to drive especially in corners. It handles great and has astonishing grip.

Very reliable although after years of hard driving, it keeps running.

I definitely recommend it to everyone seeking for a great low budget sports car.

Faults:

Air sensor failed after 100,000km.

Water pump failed after 200,000km.

General Comments:

I've owned my car for 3 1/2 buying it when it was 7 years old. £230 worth of repairs & servicing says it all. I know I will never find a car as reliable as this ever again.

My car has been through the wars too. 6 months after purchasing the car, my psychotic ex-girlfriend crashed the car into a wall causing £2500 worth of damage. I put the car back together again which involved grafting onto the car a new front chassis. But the car has still been outstanding. I have a 90 mile commute every day for the past 3 years and it has handled it faultlessly. it was particularly special finishing work late and driving home with the top down at 11pm with nothing, but the stars and my favorite music for company. Sheer magic.

And driving the car was a pleasure. Docile when you wanted the car to be docile, and when you felt the urge to push on a bit, it responded with the most communicative handling I have ever experienced. Just it lacked a top end power and did get a little noisy and tiresome at motorway cruising speeds.

One car that a manufacturer put a severe amount of love and thought into.

Sadly I've thrashed it to bits by doing 75,000 miles in 3 years, but it's still going strong.

Time for a bit more practicality for me, but I will be desperately sorry to see it go.

Faults:

Replaced Woodruff key, timing belt, TB pulley, wires, and plugs. Runs beautifully, just need to retard the timing for emissions. Also replaced front brakes, still need to do the rears.

General Comments:

Love the everything about the car, especially the purchase price (FREE!). I am currently restoring this car, and am enjoying every minute of it.

Faults:

Rear brake caliper replaced at 72000 miles due to brake fluid leak.

Battery failed at 75000 miles (probably due to infrequent vehicle use).

General Comments:

While no quicker than most 'hot hatches' the MX-5 does everything a budget sports car should do. It feels and sounds sporty, responding well to all the controls, offering true rear wheel drive handling characteristics, and open air motoring.

It is well equipped and finished, and has an easy to operate hood. My example wears its 10 years and 75000 miles extremely well.

The only downside is a fairly lumpy ride, and cramped driving position for those over 6 feet tall.

Running costs have proved to be very low, with cheap insurance available via the Owners Club in the UK.