This has probably been done before...

[rfn]

After my hopes of getting an MX-5 were dashed by my Mondeo needing some repairs, so the money set aside towards upgrading to a mk2.5 has been reduced.

Hence I'm now planning on keeping my current car for another year to 18 months, but just wondering what sort of prices people think Mk3 2.0 Sports might be at in 18 months time? At 2 1/2 years old, there are a few 06 plates on Autotrader for 10 to 11k (19k new). I spent a good hour driving one at the weekend and really liked it, but can't decide if it is worth saving a bit more and looking out a Mk3 over a Mk2.5.

[zac510]

The prices are only going to drop, until the seem to plateau where mk1-2 models are at the moment, ranging between 2-6k for reasonable ones.

I reckon the newest model possible is often the best, for vehicle dynamics, engine quality etc reasons.

Although buying the very first of a brand new model run is fraught with danger too while the factory get up to speed fixing niggles

[rfn]

zac510 said:

Although buying the very first of a brand new model run is fraught with danger too while the factory get up to speed fixing niggles

Possibly a good point, though I haven't heard of many problems with the Mk3, and most of which seem to be dealt with under warranty?

[MX-5 Lazza]

rfn said:

zac510 said:

Although buying the very first of a brand new model run is fraught with danger too while the factory get up to speed fixing niggles

Possibly a good point, though I haven't heard of many problems with the Mk3, and most of which seem to be dealt with under warranty?

Except the iffy handling

[rfn]

MX-5 Lazza said:

rfn said:

zac510 said:

Although buying the very first of a brand new model run is fraught with danger too while the factory get up to speed fixing niggles

Possibly a good point, though I haven't heard of many problems with the Mk3, and most of which seem to be dealt with under warranty?

Except the iffy handling

Just needs lowering 30mm and the geometry set is that right?

The one I drove had the 30mm springs fitted and handled pretty well to me (but then I do drive a diesel Mondeo...)

[MX-5 Lazza]

Fitting the Eibach lowering springs (correcting springs - the stock UK springs are too high, the Eibachs just put the height to where it should be and where it is on Japan market cars) and getting the alignment corrected cures most of the problem.

Most of them.

Mind you, I have no first hand experience...