Is an MX-5 for me?

[renaultgeek]

Hi everybody!
So I'm thinking of selling my motorbikes as I never get the chance to use them. But I need something to replace the feeling and I don't think my megane gt line does that enough. Which leads me to thinking of getting myself a mk1 mx5. Probably a 20 year old one for classic insurance reasons. I've only ever had short spins in mx5s, but they seem to be such a lovely drive (even though the ones I was driving were due to be scrapped! I gave them their swan song!)
So does it sound like a good idea? And are there any good dealers in the UK for mk1s? That is if I can't get a decent one here in Ireland.
Anything I should know/avoid/look out for?

[vdubbin]

If you've driven a few, and like them, I'd say go for it. But I'm biased, as I have one. It's a good time of the year to get one, as many are moved on at the end of the topless season.

There are a lot of owners on www.octane.ie as well as www.mx5ireland.com, with a few cars for sale there too.

For €1350, you could always move it on again without losing your shirt.
http://octane.ie/forum/showthread.php?t=62290
He's also selling a turbo'd '5 shoudl you require more of a shove: http://octane.ie/ads/car.php?id=9732

This one's a bit more motorsport orientated, but perfect for trackdays.
http://octane.ie/ads/car.php?id=9732

Look at many, test drive many, don't be in any rush!

As for what to look out for, rust is the major killer on these, especially around the arches and sills.
the engines are strong, suspension can get tired over time, but can be refreshed.

We had a good thread on what to look for recently:
http://octane.ie/forum/showthread.php?t=59804
and an older one.
http://octane.ie/forum/showthread.php?t=39284
(Or you could look through all the MX5 related threads on the site HERE

MX5 Owner's club guide
https://www.mx5oc.co.uk/forum/forums/t/425.aspx

Edited by vdubbin on Thursday 13th September 12:35

Edited by vdubbin on Thursday 13th September 13:35

[MX-5 Lazza]

I used to have classic insurance on a 5 year old MX5. Makes no sense to me but there you go. Went back to normal insurance as classic insurance was too restrictive.

[SixtySpeedTwin]

I can relate to how you feel.
I have a couple of bikes that ive not even bothered to tax this year with the shocking weather, I've just enjoyed the roof down on my mk1 MX5 instead.

If you have really fallen out of love with your bikes an MX is a very good substitute for the fun & freedom.

But I wont be getting rid of my bikes though

[renaultgeek]

Thanks everybody! Sixty Speed Twin, it's good to hear that some of the fun can still be had. I'd keep the bikes but I can't afford the mx5 if I keep them and would rather see them getting good use.

Cheers for all the advice vdubbin, very useful stuff there.