MX-5 opinions

I have been trying to convert mine, you will need:

Front headlights
ISO Connectors for the new lights, the mk2.5 has 2 bulbs for main/dipped not 1
New bumper
New wheel arch liners, you could get away with the old ones, but they aren't an exact fit
The method used to fasten the bumper to the wings is also different. I am not happy with the fit so I may not do it.

I really want to get my Mk2.5 door cards in, but the door handle holes don't line up with the handles on the mk2 so I am not sure what to do about that. Centre console and seats are a straight swap.
 
I use my Mk1 for the 60 mile round trip to work every day. Great car, although is noisy on the motorway with the noise of the roof, I listen to my Ipod so it doesn't bother me.

As for modifications, I've just fitted a lower lip spoiler to the front bumper - looks great, a lot more purposeful at the front now!
 
Capt Doufos said:
I really want to get my Mk2.5 door cards in, but the door handle holes don't line up with the handles on the mk2 so I am not sure what to do about that. Centre console and seats are a straight swap.
Click to expand...

You need to extend the door latch and catch rods, flatten out the back of the door latch cups, cut down the surround and drill two holes in the door to mount the whole thing further forward.

The main issue is the door car fixing points don't really match up, you need to drill some new holes for this also.

I did mine ages ago and i'm the only person i know whos done it.
 
Thanks, I will take anouther look later in the year. After I have done the fluid changes (Engine, Gearbox and LSD) and replaced a rear caliper.
 
Can I ask what sort of price are you looking at for an MX-5 that isn't a complete shed?

I see plenty for sale around/under the £1500 mark, is this too low to pay for one and not expect any major problems in the near future?
 
Pixel said:
Can I ask what sort of price are you looking at for an MX-5 that isn't a complete shed?

I see plenty for sale around/under the £1500 mark, is this too low to pay for one and not expect any major problems in the near future?
Click to expand...

Now a days I wouldn't want to pay more than £4k for an mx5, maybe even less than that. Any more and you are to close to S2000/Z4/Boxster territory for my liking and I would want to save up more and go that route.
 
That is true, but the running costs of S2000/Boxster/Z4 are many times that of the 5. One reason I don't get rid of it. Full set of Brakes £79.99 (Discs and pads front and rear) 2 rear calipers £97 Brand New!!!!

It's also dead easy to service and maintain yourself, most stuff is easy access.
 
Pixel said:
Can I ask what sort of price are you looking at for an MX-5 that isn't a complete shed?

I see plenty for sale around/under the £1500 mark, is this too low to pay for one and not expect any major problems in the near future?
Click to expand...

I payed £1300 for mine about 6 months ago, it has been perfect so far with the only issue being me not checking the clutch fluid level (which resulted in me fitting new slave cylinder - £14).

I completely thrash the thing, I always allow it to warm up however, but the engine sees the redline everyday.
 
I would never consider buying a "second car" when my commute is only 12 miles. I'd do that in a Model T so I'm sure you can manage in an MX-5
 
Pics you say...?

21082008038.jpg


21082008039.jpg


21082008040.jpg


Resprayed in Mk3 Winning Blue, just had a Mohair hood installed with heated glass rear screen from mazmania in knutsford and am doing a bee sting conversion on the aerial at the mo. Running uprated adjustable shocks (apexi) but that's it for mods. It's a 1996 1.8iS with leather interior btw.

Get one.
 
Last edited:
Kitchster_uk said:
doing a bee sting conversion on the aerial at the mo.
Click to expand...

On a scale of one to ten, how much of a five minute job is this? I'm getting a bit annoyed at the fact the mast on the boot of my MX-5 picks up transmissions from walkie-talkies used by mercenaries in the Amazon Rainforest, to be honest.
 
Howard said:
On a scale of one to ten, how much of a five minute job is this? I'm getting a bit annoyed at the fact the mast on the boot of my MX-5 picks up transmissions from walkie-talkies used by mercenaries in the Amazon Rainforest, to be honest.
Click to expand...

lol :D

I am converting from an electric to the bee sting so have to source a manual base, much more hassle. The kit appears to be a simple 2 minute job, I'll let you know as soon as I get it sorted.
 
My 1990 (well, the missus'). Paid $750 (about £500). Restored it in my garage.

Miata07_0430071913c.jpg


Miata08_0430071914.jpg


Miata06_0430071913b.jpg


Hadn't put the mirrors on yet because the paint was still drying. Need to find some original wheels, too. I hate wheel covers.

I absolutely love tooling around in that thing, though it is her car. :D
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom