MG MGF vs Mazda MX5

[Poidster]

Thinking of taking the plunge and buying a 'cheap' track day toy. Just looking for a bit of fun and enjoyment. I need to use an auto car (unavoidable unfortunately)and have come across a few of the above cars with auto tranny (the MG has a flappy paddle steptronic option, that I think would be useful) seem to be able to pick up them up for around £2k. Not planning on doing any alterations initially.

Anyone got any views on which might offer the better experience (Auto box aside) and which would be the best (easier and cheaper ) if I wanted to upgrade at a later date (ie brakes / suspension / seating etc)

[Herman Toothrot]

SMT Mk3 MR2 has them both licked.


http://www.pistonheads.com/classifieds/used-cars/t...

Should be able to find a cheaper one.

[vanman1936]

Mate has a well set up 160 MGF - great car, instructor at Bedford commented that it was rather good.

I know the MX5 is loved by all.....slower straight line of course.

I wanted some real grunt and went for a MK2 MR2 turbo for £1k / spent the same overhauling her and now she flies. They are older but pretty tough. If you do look get a Rev 3 (1993 onwards with oval rear lights) - better power and suspension.

[Herman Toothrot]

The mk2 also carries between 250-350kg more weight than an mx5, mgf or mk1 or mk3 mr2. Not really comparable as no where near as fun to drive on the limit. Not sure I've ever seen a mk2 mr2 turbo auto either?

Edited by Herman Toothrot on Saturday 10th August 12:00

[vanman1936]

Can't say - have only driven the Mr2 - have you driven all 3?

[Herman Toothrot]

Owned all except an mgf and been out in one of them. Mk2 feels a barge in comparison. Good cars I had a rev 2 & 3 Gti and a gts, but more a GT car than chuckabe loon car than the other versions.

Edited by Herman Toothrot on Sunday 11th August 01:51

[vanman1936]

Interesting - have only driven mine which has modded suspension so feels quite lithe and bloody quick which kind of does it for me.

Will have to get out in the other two at the next day I go to. If funds permit will be a Caterham or VX220 Turbo next year.....hopefully.

[AshVX220]

vanman1936 said:

Interesting - have only driven mine which has modded suspension so feels quite lithe and bloody quick which kind of does it for me.

Will have to get out in the other two at the next day I go to. If funds permit will be a Caterham or VX220 Turbo next year.....hopefully.

Just save some money and get a VX N/A, much better balanced car, with slight modding should be quicker overall round the length of a lap. The Turbo is softer and for the power junkies rather than the handling junkies.

[vanman1936]

What mods / how much ££?

[AshVX220]

Mine's entirely standard, but I'd have a look at places like Courtnay Motorsport. But simple stuff, like tyres, brakes, a new air filter and exhaust will be rewarding.

Or for the best of all worlds try and find a VX that has already been S/C'd, that way you'll have the best of both worlds.