Looking to buy an MX-5, what should I check for?

[jaynopr]

Hi people,
As the topic says, I'm currently looking for a Mk1 (1991) MX-5. I admit my knowledge of car mechanics is novice at best.

I'm checking one out this Sunday, so what kind of things should I be looking for when viewing or test driving an MX-5?

Any advice would be appreciated!

Cheers

[Raify]

There's a buying guide on the mx50c site: http://www.mx5ocforum.co.uk/viewtopic.php?t=12451

Prices are wrong now, but the advice is still good. Also, there was a buying guide in Evo not long ago. Can't remember the issue though...

[HeavySoul]

Raify said:

There's a buying guide on the mx50c site: http://www.mx5ocforum.co.uk/viewtopic.php?t=12451

Prices are wrong now, but the advice is still good. Also, there was a buying guide in Evo not long ago. Can't remember the issue though...

I am looking for some advice also - can anyone remember the Evo issue as I remember reading the buying guide but I went through my library and could I find the damn issue?!

[Raify]

I'll have a look for the Evo issue when I get home. I know I've got it somewhere.

[ALawson]

http://www.planetmx5.com/general.htm

http://www.planetmx5.com/interior&exterior.htm

http://www.planetmx5.com/mechanical.htm

[skinny]

jaynopr said:

Hi people,
As the topic says, I'm currently looking for a Mk1 (1991) MX-5. I admit my knowledge of car mechanics is novice at best.

I'm checking one out this Sunday, so what kind of things should I be looking for when viewing or test driving an MX-5?

Any advice would be appreciated!

Cheers

find someone who knows to go with you! that's the easiest way

[Legend83]

I was in your position in July when I bought mine. This is the link to the thread I posted which might have some useful titbits on it:

http://www.pistonheads.com/xforums/topic.asp?h=0&a...

Check the hood is sound, the interior does not smell of damp, the cambelt has been changed at 60k miles, service history etc. Check sills (where rear wheelarch joins the door bottom) for rust/rot.

And.....hand over the cash - you will not regret it

[jaynopr]

Thanks for a ton of helpful replies. After looking around a lot, I've found a nice 1992 MX-5 in top condition, taken it out for a spin and I'm putting down a deposit on it today!
http://pistonheads.com/sales/183681.htm

Cheers!

[Luca1973]

Congratulations, looks superb in white.