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What to look for buying an MX-5 - Which should I buy?

Posted: Mon Jun 06, 2016 2:10 pm
by Okibi

Re: What to look for buying an MX-5 - Which should I buy?

Posted: Sat Feb 02, 2019 8:56 am
by paueee
G’day fellas,

Instead of starting a new thread, thought it’s better to just ask in this one.

I’m looking to get myself into a ‘16 or ‘17 soft top ND MX5 soon. Really excited actually!

Are there any specific things to look out for when inspecting the car? Any known gearbox issues? Common soft top wear and tear?

I would assume the engine is generally bulletproof given how strong the NA engines are still going strong. So Mazda knows how to make an engine reliable.

Also, during very hot days (35*c and above), can the airconditioning cope with the top up?

Thanks in advance.


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Re: What to look for buying an MX-5 - Which should I buy?

Posted: Sat Feb 02, 2019 11:11 am
by 93_Clubman
Mazda Technical Service Bulletins will give you an idea of some issues: https://www.miata.net/garage/tsb/
From what I hear there have been gearbox issues, but I don't know if that applies to both the 1.5 & 2 litre models, which raises the question of which motor you're going for. Also, initial reports were that the auto transmission compared really well the the manual, but I've not heard how that's gone in the longer term.

Re: What to look for buying an MX-5 - Which should I buy?

Posted: Sat Feb 02, 2019 1:27 pm
by paueee
93_Clubman wrote:Mazda Technical Service Bulletins will give you an idea of some issues: https://www.miata.net/garage/tsb/
From what I hear there have been gearbox issues, but I don't know if that applies to both the 1.5 & 2 litre models, which raises the question of which motor you're going for. Also, initial reports were that the auto transmission compared really well the the manual, but I've not heard how that's gone in the longer term.


Thanks for the info. I’m looking at the 2.0 Manual Soft top.


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Re: What to look for buying an MX-5 - Which should I buy?

Posted: Thu Oct 03, 2019 9:54 pm
by YeahYeahYeah
The A/C will cope. The 1.5L zings and is really rewarding as it revs. The early 2L doesn’t, 118kw vs the 135kw update.