£3-5k budget - MR2 or MX5?

[TheFungle]

I had been considering a cheap and cheerful NB MX5 but have been put off by tales of rust.

Having previously run a well sorted NC MX5 as a daily, I'm well versed in their pros & cons.

As this will be a second car I can sacrifice some practicality and the 'exoticness' of a mid-engined car appeals.

Would love feedback from those who have driven both.

[Baldchap]

I've driven both. Assuming you're talking about the 1.8 140 MR2, I found the engine really disappointing. Like the Celica it shares it with, it's just a bit flat and feels lacking in power at all times. Unlike the 190 version, it never goes 'on cam' and as such never redeems itself.

Great chassis, but ultimately frustrating is my opinion.

The MX5 always felt a far better balanced package to me, in that somehow they never feel frustratingly lacking in any area.

[mattman]

Mx5 is just too rusty to chance for me - how about a TT Roadster or Z3 ?

[tomwilliams0326]

i think would of the 2 have the mr2, having only driven an mx5 i obviously just my opinion. seen to see a lot more people now buying mr2's. One oof my mates have a z3 2.8 and he loves it. and i think it looks good too. I would probably get a z3 if you have the choice and the 2.8 is a must

[200Plus Club]

Had both. MR2 is slightly better on track. Engine is a bit flat but can be thrashed regardless.
190bhp conversion MR2 would be sweet spot.

[rotaryjam]

I've had an MX5 1.8 NB and Mr2 mk3.

Engines in both are cack, both very uninspiring and sound awful, easily the weakest part of both cars. Though the NB is slightly better...

Looks are subjective, I like both.

Overall both very good in all other areas.

The MX5 has a better gear change (the best of the many cars I've tried) but the MR2 is not bad. It also has the practicality of a boot.

The MR2 feels more planted yet also the most playful. Whereas I had to really try to get the chassis out of line in the NB, but it did give more feedback in terms of body roll - which may be good or bad depending on your Outlook.

For the money I can't think of any better drivers cars and I'm sure you'd be happy with either.

[Silenoz]

I've had an NB 1.8 MX5, 1.8NC MX5 and a MK3 MR2. Out of those, I'd have the NC MX-5 again. I never really bonded with the MR2 and it's limitations meant I didn't use it much at all compared to the MX-5. Although as others have said, a six cylinder Z3 would be a good alternative, and something I intend to try in the near future!