MX5 Confusion

[matt3001]

Hi, i've been asked to do a bit of research for a friend who is thinking of getting an MX5 as a weekend toy, but even myself who prides myself on above average knowledge of cars has got a bit confused about the MX5 range.

Specifically looking at around 2000 (W) to 2004 (04) MX5's, is this what is classed as the MK2 or the MK2.5? Its the one after the pop-up lights but not the brand new one with the metal folding roof that you buy brand new now.

Looking at the 1.8i, which I believe has 150bhp? Do all 1.8's have the 6 speed manual? Also what extras does a sport get you, is it the LSD? I've seen a few nice looking cars in a kind of moonstone grey colour, was this available for all models? Or is it some kind of special edition? Also was factory fitted sat nav offered as an option on cars this early, and if so is it any good?

Finally just any good advice for buying one really? Good places for insurance etc?

Hope you guys can help,

[MX-5 Lazza]

Mk1 1.6 114bhp 1989 - 1993
Mk1 1.8 130bhp 1993 - 1998
Mk1 1.6 88bhp 1994 - 1998

Mk2 1.6 115bhp and 1.8 138bhp 1998 - 2001

Mk2.5 1.6 115bhp and 1.8 146bhp 2001 - 2006

Mk2.5 Sport has the following that the non-sport model doesn't have:
6-speed gearbox
Limited-slip dif
Heated leather seats
Bigger brakes
16" alloy wheels
Front strut brace
Additional chassis bracing
Remote central locking (I think that's a Sport option...).
Possibly missing something...

As far as I know none of them were ever fitted with sat-nav as standard.

There is also a Mk2 Sport but don't get them confused - it's a limited edition with a lot of very desirable extras and a body-kit.

[matt3001]

Ah rite, that clears it up a bit, definitely a Mk2.5 1.8 sport seems the best option, do they have air conditioning or climate control as standard?

[hornetrider]

Nope. Its an option I believe but rare as poop from wooden horses. If you want A/C chances are you're looking at a jap import.

[MX-5 Lazza]

As hornetrider says, AC (not climate) is an option but it's relatively common on UK Mk2.5s compared to previous UK models, certainly on the Sport model. On Jap imports it's a very common option but then you would be looking at a Mk1 or earlier Mk2 as there aren't many jap imports from 2000ish.

My UK Mk2.5 Sport has AC