1994 Mazda MX5 1.8L from North America
Summary:
Great value: Fun and Reliable
Faults:
Clutch slave cylinder failed at 75k.
Soft top billows at highway speed. Trim to be re-glued.
Soft top sometimes leaks in rain. Water goes into the trunk. Rain rail needs replacing.
Climate control venting hotter at the feet than the panel/defroster - fixable, but I never got around to it.
Air conditioning caused water to drip into passenger foot-well - cleared drain with pipe-cleaner and dripping gone. Also, refrigerant could be recharged after 12 years. 8)
General Comments:
Other than the clutch, this car has been very reliable as a daily driver. Never failed to start - even in the middle of winter.
Truly an adult go-cart. OEM shifter throws pretty short. Springs could be stiffer/replaced, but body roll is minimal in turns. Slight under-steer in turns, but rear end is toss-able with appropriate throttle. RWD! Steering ratio requires more attention on the highway, but provides great response in the city. Characteristics customizable with quality alignment.
Larger brakes introduced in 1994 - works great. Anti-lock effective.
Fuel economy could be better: I got 24-26mpg mixed city-hwy conservatively driven. 30mpg hwy. May be improved if timing advanced.
The spare tire takes up significant space in the trunk, but I was able to fit a small golf bag with clubs.
Ultimately a great second vehicle. Keep the shiny side up!
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 7th February, 2007
27th Feb 2006, 01:29
About the Drink holder.
This car actually does have a drink holder! If you take out the ashtray from the center console and reverse the bracket on it, with the ashtray open a can or bottle of pop fits in snug and perfectly!
If you smoke it may not be that convenient, however if you do not, it's a great way to use everything in the car!