Well after DiamondMark's HPI check came back alright (unless he really was joking 
), I went ahead and got myself a 1998 MX-5 1.8. It's done 108k, which is pretty reasonable for an MX-5 of this age going off the ones I've looked at already, and for the most part it's in great condition. There's the usual bubbling at the bottom end of the bonnet which is common with these, but nothing that a decent bodyshop wouldn't be able to sort out for not much money. Apart from a gap in the service history, where I was assured that it was looked after by an enthusiast who carried out his own servicing (that old chestnut), it's got a fairly comprehensive record of servicing and receipts for the usual stuff, including about £500 spent in May this year.
Anyway, away from the boring stuff and on to the drive. I've owned quite a few cars that are considered as performance vehicles, but I can honestly say that this blows them away in terms of handling. Even the Clio Sports I've had in the past didn't feel anywhere near as sure footed through the twisties. Straight line performance is adequate, not exceptional, but it's the feel of the car that really does it for me. I kind of expected to be let down with the drive after reading and hearing so many great things about them, but it didn't disappoint at all. They really are every bit as good as owners suggest.
However, the best thing was the price. I managed to bag this for a bargain £1,300. Absolutely delighted with it, and would love to hear from MX-5 owners with recommendations of subtle modifications (no FI yet!). I've attached a few crap pictures taken on my phone, but you get the idea. The dodgy wooden trim will be gone at the first possible opportunity! Let the 'gay' comments commence.
Here's a picture of the bubbling on the bonnet. If any MX-5 owners know the best way to remedy this, that would be great.
), I went ahead and got myself a 1998 MX-5 1.8. It's done 108k, which is pretty reasonable for an MX-5 of this age going off the ones I've looked at already, and for the most part it's in great condition. There's the usual bubbling at the bottom end of the bonnet which is common with these, but nothing that a decent bodyshop wouldn't be able to sort out for not much money. Apart from a gap in the service history, where I was assured that it was looked after by an enthusiast who carried out his own servicing (that old chestnut), it's got a fairly comprehensive record of servicing and receipts for the usual stuff, including about £500 spent in May this year.Anyway, away from the boring stuff and on to the drive. I've owned quite a few cars that are considered as performance vehicles, but I can honestly say that this blows them away in terms of handling. Even the Clio Sports I've had in the past didn't feel anywhere near as sure footed through the twisties. Straight line performance is adequate, not exceptional, but it's the feel of the car that really does it for me. I kind of expected to be let down with the drive after reading and hearing so many great things about them, but it didn't disappoint at all. They really are every bit as good as owners suggest.
However, the best thing was the price. I managed to bag this for a bargain £1,300. Absolutely delighted with it, and would love to hear from MX-5 owners with recommendations of subtle modifications (no FI yet!). I've attached a few crap pictures taken on my phone, but you get the idea. The dodgy wooden trim will be gone at the first possible opportunity! Let the 'gay' comments commence.
Here's a picture of the bubbling on the bonnet. If any MX-5 owners know the best way to remedy this, that would be great.
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