MK2 1.8iS V5 Logbook Entry

[deeks73]

Hi all.

I'm currently hunting for a mk2 1.8is or special edition (I am after a car with a torsen LSD) and have been to view a couple today. Both cars I viewed were "advertised" as 1.8iS models however in both V5 logbooks the models were down as "MX-5 S". I would expect the V5 to say "MX-5 iS".

Now.... is the 1.8 S the base model and the sellers are mistakenly up-selling their cars as 1.8iS cars? Or.... is the MK2 1.8iS known as the "MX-5 S" in the V5 logbook ?

Any MK2 1.8 owners who can help get me straight? I am keen to get the iS to ensure I get the torsen.

[MX-5 Lazza]

The base 1.8 is called 1.8i so the top spec S is know as 1.8iS. If its says S on the log book it will be an iS (unless it's a JDM S-spec ).

[sbird]

My V5 says "MX-5 S", and that's a "1.8i S".

Tell-tale signs to look for are: nardi airbag steering wheel, nardi gearknob, metal sill plates, windblocker, tweeters in the door cards, ABS, PAS, electric mirrors & electric windows. While anything could have been changed on the car (including the diff), if one of those last 4 is missing, then you've probably got a different car.

It's worth noting that the 1.8 edition of the Phoenix (http://www.mx5-mazda.co.uk/phoenix.htm) & Euphonic editions had torsens.

Of course, the most reliable way to tell if it's got an LSD is to take it for a drive.

[cwinterb]

A quick browse around howmanyleft.co.uk will show you how randomly and inconsistently car model data is recorded by the authorities!

[davidsc]

I have a 1.8is (forsale) and it just says MX5 S on the logbook