Discussion
The sun is starting to shine again and I find myself browsing roadsters on AT this morning.
Having decided I'd really rather not blow 20k on a fairly new hot hatch which might be a bit better than my slightly older hot hatch I'm still exploring other options. Sensible me thinks, just keep my car as its fine, but I wonder if its possible to have a worthwhile change without spending huge amounts.
My car is due a full service and MOT next month which should hopefully make it easy to sell privately. I'm guessing it's worth between 6-7k give or take. So I was looking at 2 seat roadsters around maybe 10k. The idea being that I could buy one then sell my car privately to maximise value.
I guess I'm looking mainly at the mx5 NC. I like the foldy Hart top as it lives outside and is used year round. Must admit I'm worried about rust! Is it advisable to get the latest, cleanest examples to avoid problems? The mk3.75 with low mileage can be had for under 10k but I'm not sure if that's just too much to pay for one?
There are a few early 2.0 ND's for not much more money. Obviously its soft top but not a deal breaker. Would these be a better buy?
Other than that I've noticed a few Z4 28i for similar money. I've always liked them and the fact they have a fair bit more poke is nice. But I've been burned by BMW running costs in the past.
I'd like to avoid big bills so don't really want anything too old. No old Boxsters however good to drive. A 4 cylinder engine is fine for me. Having done a 6 pot BMW before I'm not that fussed. But it absolutely must have a manual box.
So, cheaper/more expensive NC?
Early ND?
Z4 28i manual for a little more cash?
Or......?
Having decided I'd really rather not blow 20k on a fairly new hot hatch which might be a bit better than my slightly older hot hatch I'm still exploring other options. Sensible me thinks, just keep my car as its fine, but I wonder if its possible to have a worthwhile change without spending huge amounts.
My car is due a full service and MOT next month which should hopefully make it easy to sell privately. I'm guessing it's worth between 6-7k give or take. So I was looking at 2 seat roadsters around maybe 10k. The idea being that I could buy one then sell my car privately to maximise value.
I guess I'm looking mainly at the mx5 NC. I like the foldy Hart top as it lives outside and is used year round. Must admit I'm worried about rust! Is it advisable to get the latest, cleanest examples to avoid problems? The mk3.75 with low mileage can be had for under 10k but I'm not sure if that's just too much to pay for one?
There are a few early 2.0 ND's for not much more money. Obviously its soft top but not a deal breaker. Would these be a better buy?
Other than that I've noticed a few Z4 28i for similar money. I've always liked them and the fact they have a fair bit more poke is nice. But I've been burned by BMW running costs in the past.
I'd like to avoid big bills so don't really want anything too old. No old Boxsters however good to drive. A 4 cylinder engine is fine for me. Having done a 6 pot BMW before I'm not that fussed. But it absolutely must have a manual box.
So, cheaper/more expensive NC?
Early ND?
Z4 28i manual for a little more cash?
Or......?
Here are some I've spotted.
Mk3.75 NC
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/2024041185...
Newer ND sport nav
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/2024040382...
Z4 28i
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/2023110235...
I could up the budget a bit but probably wouldn't want to go much higher.
Mk3.75 NC
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/2024041185...
Newer ND sport nav
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/2024040382...
Z4 28i
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/2023110235...
I could up the budget a bit but probably wouldn't want to go much higher.
I toyed with the idea of MX5 a couple of years ago when I bought my TT Roadster, but I just couldn't face a car that I pretty much knew would have rust issues at some point.
Thought about Z4 but wanted something a bit less sporty - hence went for the TT.
However - I did also consider 350 / 370Z roadsters - and when I see them on the road (albeit I only ever see the coupe) - I do wonder why I didn't buy one of those. Worth a thought?
Thought about Z4 but wanted something a bit less sporty - hence went for the TT.
However - I did also consider 350 / 370Z roadsters - and when I see them on the road (albeit I only ever see the coupe) - I do wonder why I didn't buy one of those. Worth a thought?
I'm in a similar position but with half the budget, however a few months ago I did toy with a 10k budget and considered the same options as you. I came to the conclusion that for that money you may as well spend a little extra and go for an ND. I think it'll still have corrosion issues, but obviously they're newer so you should be able to get on top of it before it becomes a problem, plus the interior is far nicer and to my eyes they're better looking than the NC's as well. Quite a few NC's I looked at had corrosion problems that needed sorting sooner rather than later and for the best part of 10k it was a bit off-putting.
If you don't want to worry about rust at all though (which is unfortunately the point I'm reaching with my search), a BMW Z4 does look good value and even compared to the ND it'll probably be a nicer place to sit. I did wonder if they would be as fun to drive, but I've heard positive things from people, plus a RWD roadster is always going to have a certain 'fun factor' about it!
I have considered 350Z's also, but they seemed to have rust problems too, plus I've heard they don't offer the most dynamic driving experience compared to the other choices? Not sure if 370's are similar. For alternatives I feel like the Boxsters are worth a look, I know they have a rep for expensive engine issues but if you do a bit of research it seems it can be avoided/mitigated depending which one you go for etc.
If you don't want to worry about rust at all though (which is unfortunately the point I'm reaching with my search), a BMW Z4 does look good value and even compared to the ND it'll probably be a nicer place to sit. I did wonder if they would be as fun to drive, but I've heard positive things from people, plus a RWD roadster is always going to have a certain 'fun factor' about it!
I have considered 350Z's also, but they seemed to have rust problems too, plus I've heard they don't offer the most dynamic driving experience compared to the other choices? Not sure if 370's are similar. For alternatives I feel like the Boxsters are worth a look, I know they have a rep for expensive engine issues but if you do a bit of research it seems it can be avoided/mitigated depending which one you go for etc.
370Z is maybe a bit too hairy chested for me. Not sure I can stomach £735 tax on principle. Manual convertible seems quite rare.
Which TT do you have?
I've thought about it. The mk3 is definitely my favourite and I could get a basic 1.8 sport with a manual box. Front wheel drive obviously but reviews say they drive very well. I like the look of the S line quattro but I'm sure they're auto only? I do remember reading the dsg with paddles is very good. Here's a nice one which is pushing budget even further.
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/2024041185...
Great looking car and certainly fast on paper. But I do wonder if a 10k mazda might be more fun.
Which TT do you have?
I've thought about it. The mk3 is definitely my favourite and I could get a basic 1.8 sport with a manual box. Front wheel drive obviously but reviews say they drive very well. I like the look of the S line quattro but I'm sure they're auto only? I do remember reading the dsg with paddles is very good. Here's a nice one which is pushing budget even further.
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/2024041185...
Great looking car and certainly fast on paper. But I do wonder if a 10k mazda might be more fun.
Id probably spend £10k on the best 2.7L 987 Boxster I could get. Loads of storage space, mid engine, Flat 6, what you spend in maintenance you'll save in depreciation
Edit: Just saw no old Boxster, shame, its probably the best car in the segment!
Edit: Just saw no old Boxster, shame, its probably the best car in the segment!
Edited by Crudeoink on Friday 26th April 13:35
ChrisH72 said:
370Z is maybe a bit too hairy chested for me. Not sure I can stomach £735 tax on principle. Manual convertible seems quite rare.
Which TT do you have?
I've thought about it. The mk3 is definitely my favourite and I could get a basic 1.8 sport with a manual box. Front wheel drive obviously but reviews say they drive very well. I like the look of the S line quattro but I'm sure they're auto only? I do remember reading the dsg with paddles is very good. Here's a nice one which is pushing budget even further.
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/2024041185...
Great looking car and certainly fast on paper. But I do wonder if a 10k mazda might be more fun.
For a bit of fun the 1.8 tt is fine, it’s lighter than the Quattro and rides better.Which TT do you have?
I've thought about it. The mk3 is definitely my favourite and I could get a basic 1.8 sport with a manual box. Front wheel drive obviously but reviews say they drive very well. I like the look of the S line quattro but I'm sure they're auto only? I do remember reading the dsg with paddles is very good. Here's a nice one which is pushing budget even further.
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/2024041185...
Great looking car and certainly fast on paper. But I do wonder if a 10k mazda might be more fun.
It’s more grown up than the Mazda, if your thinking a long weekend in france say it would definitely be more comfortable, but if your more likely to be on b road blasts, particularly on your own I’d go the Mazda
ChrisH72 said:
370Z is maybe a bit too hairy chested for me. Not sure I can stomach £735 tax on principle. Manual convertible seems quite rare.
Which TT do you have?
I've thought about it. The mk3 is definitely my favourite and I could get a basic 1.8 sport with a manual box. Front wheel drive obviously but reviews say they drive very well. I like the look of the S line quattro but I'm sure they're auto only? I do remember reading the dsg with paddles is very good. Here's a nice one which is pushing budget even further.
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/2024041185...
Great looking car and certainly fast on paper. But I do wonder if a 10k mazda might be more fun.
Mine is a MK 2 - although S Line.Which TT do you have?
I've thought about it. The mk3 is definitely my favourite and I could get a basic 1.8 sport with a manual box. Front wheel drive obviously but reviews say they drive very well. I like the look of the S line quattro but I'm sure they're auto only? I do remember reading the dsg with paddles is very good. Here's a nice one which is pushing budget even further.
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/2024041185...
Great looking car and certainly fast on paper. But I do wonder if a 10k mazda might be more fun.
I quite like it - the interior is a nice place to be, and mine has been pretty solid in the time I've had it - although I don't do many miles. I'm not a big fan of FWD, and would prefer it wasn't - but it's not so bad.
For those mentioning Boxsters - having used one for about a week, years ago - I didn't like it at all. The Alfa Spider I had - despite having a reputation for a dull engine - was much better in my opinion.
These can be forgotten about but a Mini Cooper S Roadster would be a lot of fun. These cars are fantastic down twisty roads, excellent handling and steering with a well-matched responsive engine. Just depends if you want a well rounded car - they’re hard riding so for daily use won’t be everyone’s idea of fun. Need to check engines carefully for timing chain and tensioner issues but my Coupe was reliable.
I think a FWD TT would drive similar to a hot hatch? That's something I'd like to avoid as I am wanting a change.
The Quattro is possible. I've never had an Audi, never had 4WD and never had a flappy paddle gearbox. Does changing manually with paddles really work properly?
Z4 manual does still tick the boxes and is a bit cheaper. I'm not fussed about it being pin sharp to drive and a bit of cruising comfort might be quite welcome.
The Quattro is possible. I've never had an Audi, never had 4WD and never had a flappy paddle gearbox. Does changing manually with paddles really work properly?
Z4 manual does still tick the boxes and is a bit cheaper. I'm not fussed about it being pin sharp to drive and a bit of cruising comfort might be quite welcome.
If you do go Mx5 you would need to get it thoroughly inspected beforehand or at least inspect it yourself on a ramp in the problem areas.
If the rust hasnt set in yet then it will benefit you to get good rust proofing treatment done every few years, not a difficult job to do yourself but good access underneath is needed.
If the rust hasnt set in yet then it will benefit you to get good rust proofing treatment done every few years, not a difficult job to do yourself but good access underneath is needed.
ChrisH72 said:
I think a FWD TT would drive similar to a hot hatch? That's something I'd like to avoid as I am wanting a change.
The Quattro is possible. I've never had an Audi, never had 4WD and never had a flappy paddle gearbox. Does changing manually with paddles really work properly?
Z4 manual does still tick the boxes and is a bit cheaper. I'm not fussed about it being pin sharp to drive and a bit of cruising comfort might be quite welcome.
If the Z4 is looking to be top of the list this one is a very nice looking example. Better colour combo and considerably cheaper than the one you posted above.The Quattro is possible. I've never had an Audi, never had 4WD and never had a flappy paddle gearbox. Does changing manually with paddles really work properly?
Z4 manual does still tick the boxes and is a bit cheaper. I'm not fussed about it being pin sharp to drive and a bit of cruising comfort might be quite welcome.
https://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202402256...
As you said roadster, first car that popped to mind, well 'modern' car, is BMW Z3. Your budget will buy a nice six pot, they are at the bottom of their depreciation curve, easy to live with, easy to maintain, old school fun, old school looks. Ours was a 1.9 and I loved it. Just watch rust. Find a good, solid one and enjoy depreciation proof motoring.
ChrisRF1 said:
I have considered 350Z's also, but they seemed to have rust problems too, plus I've heard they don't offer the most dynamic driving experience compared to the other choices? Not sure if 370's are similar.
The 370Z does handle well, and they drive well too for me with nice steering and a heavy feeling manual gearbox. However they are definitely more GT than sports car though I think. Plus they have a funny way of actually not feeling as fast as the figures suggest, but they still pile the speed on though. The VQ 3.7 V6 feels really torquey for an NA engine, and that is quite unique I reckon.
ChrisH72 said:
Z4 manual does still tick the boxes and is a bit cheaper. I'm not fussed about it being pin sharp to drive and a bit of cruising comfort might be quite welcome.
You'd like the 370Z in that regard I reckon. They ride lovely, and they are also really nice to just cruise around in as well. The ride in the 370 on 19" wheels...puts the ride to shame in the F82 M4 that I have on 19's in comparison. 
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