Is this overpriced for spec and miles?

[APanda]

Hi all, I've been deliberating for some time now and have finally decided to buy a mk1 mx5 in the next month or 2.

I've read up on the buying guides etc on here and went to view this one today, fairly local to me:
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/170765365509?ssPageName=...

It's in good nick but not immaculate bodywork or interior, a few minor scuffs on front and rear bumpers, new roof, engine looked and sounded well and it's been fairly well rust proofed. Dealer will put MOT on too.

My issue is that it's a '93 UK spec car so no PAS, AC or LSD. And at almost 98,000 miles, I felt like it was a tad overpriced compared to equivalent cars and what they offer. Not seen an eunos yet as none local to me.

Am I right or wrong?

Also, what's PH's opinion on no PAS? I've never had a car without it and not had chance to drive this one yet as it was garaged behind all the other stock.

Edited by APanda on Saturday 23 March 17:15

[Steffan]

I agree it is overpriced and a reasonable car but nothing special. Why buy from a dealer at this end of the market. You pay more and get less IMO. Warranties are meaningless with cars of this age. Genuine service history is good but condition is the critical factor. I would be buying privately for a good deal less at this age and mileage. Good luck these are fun cars and pretty reliable.

[APanda]

Steffan said:

I agree it is overpriced and a reasonable car but nothing special. Why buy from a dealer at this end of the market. You pay more and get less IMO. Warranties are meaningless with cars of this age. Genuine service history is good but condition is the critical factor. I would be buying privately for a good deal less at this age and mileage. Good luck these are fun cars and pretty reliable.

As I thought on price then I guess. Will buy either from dealer or private, whichever is the right car really, only went to this one as it was local.

Good ones seem to be dotted around the country, but am nervous about traveling a huge distance to find that someone wasn't entirely truthful about it.

[Vince70]

Looks more like £900 car to me, if the sills are not shot.
Good mark up on it at over double the price.

[Steffan]

APanda said:

Steffan said:

I agree it is overpriced and a reasonable car but nothing special. Why buy from a dealer at this end of the market. You pay more and get less IMO. Warranties are meaningless with cars of this age. Genuine service history is good but condition is the critical factor. I would be buying privately for a good deal less at this age and mileage. Good luck these are fun cars and pretty reliable.

As I thought on price then I guess. Will buy either from dealer or private, whichever is the right car really, only went to this one as it was local.

Good ones seem to be dotted around the country, but am nervous about traveling a huge distance to find that someone wasn't entirely truthful about it.

That is the downside of distance buying. I find that most advertisers are not sophisticated salesmen. Ring up ask the relevant questions. Like the detail on the service history, has the car been serviced, how long have you had it, why are you selling etc and you will get a feel even from a distance. Ask for detailed photos if not in the ad and examine these well enlarged in detail. Generally you can get a feel for the honesty of the seller. Only look at the cars that really interest you.

Then you are less likely to be offered a lemon. But nothing is totally foolproof.

[alanyboy]

Far overpriced, have a look around on the mx5 forums etc . Thats a £6-800 car maximum at the end of the day.

[alanyboy]

and as for PAS, its not necessarily needed on the mx-5, but in my opinion makes them nicer to drive. Also worth noting that the PAS rack is 2.8 lock to lock vs. 3.3 for non PAS. Doesn't sound much but does in my experience make a world of difference!

[Dump]

......to give you a bench mark

My Mk1 1.8i N reg 63,0000 2 owners last one for 13 years.....cost me £900. Dealers........i wouldnt as OP said their warranty worthless my personal view nice people sell nice cars........go on gut feeling see how they treat you etc.

I also bought a mk2 last month same time as Mk1 Phoenix 2 owners 1.8i with hardtop and trolley etc etc 63000 miles £2800.

Buy from a forum member or a private plus look at gumtree.

Ps the phoenix is coming up for sale as i like the Mk1 as prefer more bare bones no electric windows or heated seats

[APanda]

Cheers for the responses. Now going to see if he'll knock a grand off that one, I don't live in hope though.