Possible “inherited” NC incoming

My FIL is 75 and has decided that the shoulder issue he’s now living with means he is going to reluctantly have to move on his 2010 NC 1.8.

So we thought we might have it off his hands. It would be our second MX5 (we had a 2005 NB 1.8 sport for 5 years until becoming parents).

It’s pretty low mileage - 40k - and in reasonable condition (I think he washes it with sandpaper). I’d love a 2.0 with LSD but beggars can’t be choosers. It’s also pretty pedestrian on the spec - boring black and cloth interior.

Since this will be a 3rd car, what do you suggest we look out for (beyond the inevitable rust - it’s parked outside and will be under our ownership)? Also any tips on the 1.8 engine - I hear it’s not as robust as the 2.0.

And, because it’s an MX5 and I’m an overgrown kid, what’s worth doing to it? Was wondering whether the BBR Super 175 conversion is worth it…?

Thanks!

Oh, and here’s a photo from when I borrowed it in the summer:

Drain tubes and the little screw grommet cover things on the scuttle, stop it filling with water. Also give the brakes a good service as the sliding pins can be an issue on cars that get little use.

I picked up an NC earlier this week after selling my 911. Thought it would be a bit of fun while I decide on a long term replacement for the Porsche. Driven 100 miles in it so far as it is such a lot of fun. Absolutely brilliant.

Before doing anything with the current engine, i.e spending money on servicing, have a look in to a 2.5 engine swap which is easy to do apparently. Lots of extra torque for not much £.

It's a Jag V6 but they only go on n NA and NB.

Just live with the 1.8, it isn't a bad engine. Just stay on top of services and when parked for long periods, don't apply the handbrake.

So, did the deal on the car today, did all the paperwork online and added it to my current insurance policy. All super easy.

Have only had a quick spin with Mrs OMITN and she was straight back to enjoying it like the NB we had before children.

Brakes feel spongey, so might get them looked at (unless normal?). Otherwise my FIL had it serviced in August (it’s covered 75 miles since then). It mainly needs a good thrashing to get everything moving. Then I’ll get a cover for it (it will live on another part of the drive where it’s likely to get covered in leaves.

Photo with the family CX-5 behind it….

Yep, lowering springs is the easiest way, and cheap enough. Brakes should not be spongey.

Probably worth changing all the fluid. Doubt it's ever been done.

These are good points. It’s a third car so is more there for fun.

I’ll jack it up and have investigate the obvious spots (rear sills?) for rust. It’s only done 40k miles in its 13 years and, while it’s always been parked outside (and we live in damp north west England), my FIL hasn’t driven it much on wet/salty roads. I’m hoping it will be not too bad.

As for springs and dampers, I suspect they’ll be fine - no advisories on last MOT - and while I know they are a popular upgrade, it’s shared between me and my wife and so I don’t want to make it any firmer or more skittish.

Some more go might be worthwhile if it’s a keeper - BBR do a 175 conversion for the 1.8 engine.

Before you go for more power, get it to handle properly and stop properly.

Lowering it will not make it any more skittish unless it's badly done.

Some decent discs and pads all round.