MX5 MK3 handling / traction control issue

[SimonSh]

My wife's MK3 MX5 is handling strangely. Seems to be very tail happy and a little snatchy on turn in to the point where even on a nice smooth fast bend or a "straight on" at a large roundabout the traction control will cut in and apply brakes I think to one or other of the rear wheels what feels to me very prematurely.

I'm not used to driving the car so I'm not sure but it seems to have excessive body roll for a roadster, and driving it with traction switched off, it has an over eager turn in that needs correction almost instantly at anything like an enthusiastic pace. Obviously great fun having the tail chase the front end round a roundabout but my wife isn't so keen on this new characteristic!!!!
I would go as far as saying my new Transit Connect would out pace it A-B or on track which obviously means something is wrong with it. Not knowing much about the MX5 can you folks please point me in the right direction for where I need to look for a broken or damaged or worn something-or-other!!!

All responses appreciated!!!

Simon

[MX-5 Lazza]

Have you ever had the geometry checked?
Is it lowered?

[SimonSh]

As I typed my question I realised that all the characteristics I was describing would imply too much roll at the front end resulting in more grip at the front and aggressive oversteer. Just been to look and sure enough the ARB drop link at the OSF had come apart!!! Part ordered on-line so should be soon sorted.

Thanks for your reply

[MX-5 Lazza]

Mazda front drop links are a known failure point on Mk3s. You can usually actually get them back together but better to replace with aftermarket as the replacement Mazda items have the same weak point.