UK Spec Mazda MX5 1.6, Limited Edition (127 of 250), 12 month’s MOT

The usual opening statement applies here; I spent a LONG TIME looking for this one. My criteria were as follows;

 MK1

 UK version

 1.6 (truest to the intent of the design IMO)

 Mechanically sound

 Unmodified/ honest condition (not perfect)

 Perfect hood

 Racing Green (preferred)

I found all of this obviously. Then my wife became pregnant (obviously got the car too late to distract myself…) and the car has been in my lock-up with dry mileage only (1,400 approx) and some very expensive 14” Watanabe’s added. The end was nigh when my head was turned by a Rev2 MK2 MR2 and now she needs to go so I can get the garage space back.

I probably paid over the odds when I bought it as it ticked so many boxes on my wish-list, so I am not looking for the money back. It has a private plate (which I hate, along with all private plates) that has been valued @ £450. It came with 15” 205 BBS alloys (standard from supplied) which were frankly ridiculous for a car that gets involving when grip is limited. The ride quality with them on was appalling (hunty and boomy) so I was going back to a set of stock ‘Daisies’ when I saw these amazing Watanabe’s… the rest is history. They are approx. 30% lighter than the stock wheels and in my opinion work both dynamically and aesthetically. For those that are interested, they go on Ebay for anywhere between £300 and £650.

Good points

 Mechanically very strong

 No advisories on current MOT

 Unmodified (with the exception of a MX5Parts Stainless back section)

 100% Original interior

 Hood leak free and in excellent condition (rear screen not creased)

 Brand new battery

 Watanabe 14” rims (£400)

 Full tread Goodyear rears, Firestone fronts (barely scrubbed in)

 Private plate

 Limited Edition with all original catalogue/key fobs/service manual/document wallet

Bad points

 Slight dent on O/S front wing (pictured)

 Would like a respray (have a man in Hackney that will do it for £750 – top class)

 Wear to driver’s seat bolster

 No ICE

 Windows sluggish (common issue)

 Wing mirrors need overhaul (rubbers renewing)

Like I say, I don’t want my money back, but I think the car is very honest and worth someone else’s money too. I am a recent HPC member and very keen driver so I try and take the best care of my cars. This one has only seen rain when we have been caught out in the British ‘summertime’ and has never been put away wet. I have had it garaged at all times (I forget to disconnect the battery last time – hence replacement). Obviously I had grand plans (mainly the respray) which have been shelved.

This is a lot of car for the money, happy to answer any questions.