Newbie to Mazda Mk2 - 2.5

[Bish]

Can someone explain the difference between the 2 and the 2.5 and when they were released etc??? Thanks Bish

[Jerwatt]

The 2.5 was released in 2001. Updates were having fog lights (I think), new colour to the instrument panel gauges, updated seats. I think the engine was slightly tweaked too. Then depending on the version stuff like the 6-speed gearbox, heated seats etc. There's plenty of information around on the various MX-5 sites.

[Odie]

They look different, different rear bumper/nose cone, different rear lights. That all I can really think of, someone will be along to give more details im sure.

[Bish]

Thanks chaps.

[youngsyr]

Probably the main difference is that the 2.5 has Variable Valve Timing. Most of the other differences are cosmetic.

[MX-5 Lazza]

Between Mk2 & Mk2.5 the rear end is the same. The headlights are reshaped with better lenses (projector dipped beam and separate reflector main beam), reshaped front bumper with a more angular "mouth" and holes for fog-lights (though only the Sport and some specials have them fitted, others have little black grilles). Inside they have one-piece high back seats (like updated early Mk1 seats) and a double-din "modular" stereo if it's still fitted. Under the bonnet the 1.8 has a VVT engine which gives it 146bhp (as opposed to 138bhp in Mk2 1.8).

[Richyvrlimited]

The BP-Z3 (VVT engine) has a slightly higher compression ratio and VVT on the intake cam only

Note that some people mix up VVT with Hondas VTEC system, they're nothing like each other, VTEC allows variable cam timing and variable valve lift, Mazda's VVT is just variable cam timing.

Adjusting the cam timing means you can reduce and increase valve overlap, though the way Mazda have setup their VVT on this engine it does nothing to increase top end power, it 'merely' improves midrange, (roughly the cam moves from full retard at idle/low rev, to full advance in midrange back to full retard at high rpm).

MK2.5's also have a Mohair roof as standard with a pusedo inner lining and improved window seals. Far far better than the vinyl versions of previous models.

[MX-5 Lazza]

Richyvrlimited said:

MK2.5's also have a Mohair roof as standard with a pusedo inner lining and improved window seals. Far far better than the vinyl versions of previous models.

No they don't, they have a vinyl roof as standard. The mohair hood was an option

[Richyvrlimited]

It was an option!?

I've never seen a MK2.5 with a vinyl roof, not may people must've taken the cheaper route

[furtive]

Mine has a vinyl roof ;(

[Jerwatt]

http://www.mx5oc.co.uk/forum/forums/t/320.aspx

Might also help.

[gforceg]

Good afternoon all, can you guys clarify a point for me? This is more about the naming convention used but it relates to mech spec. I recently bought a Mk2.5 which in the paperwork is referred to as an S-VT. Now I undestand there's a difference between the S and the Sport but is calling it a VT about as redundant as calling it a twin cam? That is to say, if they all have VVT there isn't much point mentioning it!

If it helps, mine is also fitted with 6 sp box, torsen LSD and a front turret brace.

Thanks
Greg

[S7Paul]

gforceg said:

Good afternoon all, can you guys clarify a point for me? This is more about the naming convention used but it relates to mech spec. I recently bought a Mk2.5 which in the paperwork is referred to as an S-VT. Now I undestand there's a difference between the S and the Sport but is calling it a VT about as redundant as calling it a twin cam? That is to say, if they all have VVT there isn't much point mentioning it!

If it helps, mine is also fitted with 6 sp box, torsen LSD and a front turret brace.

Thanks
Greg

My daughter's car is also an S-VT, though I believe most people just call them the 1.8 Sport. Her one sounds similar to yours (6-sp box, LSD, strut brace, plus front fog lights, air-con & heated leather seats). Great little car. Still got a vinyl roof though!

[MX-5 Lazza]

Mk2 top standard model was 1.8S. There was a Limited Edition Mk2 1.8 Sport.
Mk2.5 top standard model was 1.8 S-VT othewise known as 1.8 Sport.

[gforceg]

Thanks for those replies. All in all a great little car.