Potential MX5 owner

[lambysdad]

Hi all,

I'm looking to get a fun (but reliable), everyday car and have decided the MX5 is the way forward.
I owned a Mazda 6 for 10 years and never had any issues so am pretty with pleased with Mazda.

Anyway, I've seen a couple advertised and plan to view / test drive next week when I get back from overseas.
I'll put the links below and would welcome any advice / recommendations.

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2014...

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2015...

Q. Are there many differences between a 2003 and 2008 model?
Q. Would you consider the 2008 to be worth twice the price of the 2003?
Q. Would you buy either of these cars?

I'm really hoping to buy in the next couple as weeks as the top off weather should be coming and I miss having fun driving!
I am in the Great Yarmouth area if any of you know of any other MX5's for sale.

Thanks
Guy.

(apologies if all this has been asked before!)

[g40steve]

Q. Are there many differences between a 2003 and 2008 model?

Everything apart from side indicator.


Q. Would you consider the 2008 to be worth twice the price of the 2003?

Totally different cars see previous answer.


Q. Would you buy either of these cars?

I would look for a sport or special edition as the 08 has not many toys.
Tin worm on older models, remember its what you can't see that's important.

[VladD]

The Mk2 has a reputation for rusty chassis rails, so it's worth getting them checked out. It's not an easy job, but worth doing.

The Mk3 initially lost some of the fun factor that the Mk1 and Mk2 had, but this can easily be sorted by getting the suspension set up sorted properly.

Have fun test driving.

[MattS3]

I guess it depends on what ypu want out of the car really.
I owned a MK2, whilst it was ok, I just felt the compromise of the interior style/trim and the quite soft looks, never really jelled with me. I spent a not inconsiderable sum on a roll bar, suspension and rust treatment.
They do rust badly, be very careful.
I sold it and bought a MK3 Sport. The 2.0 engine, whilst not much quicker than the MK2 1.8 just felt more torquey and the interior was leaps and bounds better. Leather, heated, steering wheels controls etc.

I'm not in anyway comparing it to the MK2.5 RS, different car again, but the standard MK2 just didn't float my boat, whereas the MK3 is better.

I hardly use mine, did 700 miles last year, but is feels a fun car to drive and a step on from the MK2.
I have debated with selling mine, but my kids would kill me if I did.

I'd have offered you mine for a reasonable price if that wasn't the case, as I'm only around 20 miles from you in Aylsham.