Mk2.5 Sport Questions
Discussion
I’m thinking of buying a Mk2.5 Sport in May/June as a present to myself after finishing university. I have lots of questions though and I’d be really grateful if someone knowledgeable could answer some/all of them!
When are the major services and what is the expected cost?
How many miles are they “good” for?
I could be tempted into a high mileage one if it is particularly cheap. Mostly though I am looking at low/average miles cars though.
Should I want a hardtop?
I can’t imagine it is all that bad with just the roof up even in bad weather. I doubt I would ever use a hardtop as I'd be worried I would miss good weather days.
How much could I realistically sell a hardtop for if I buy a car with one? £500?
What is mohair?
Do the roofs leak at all?
Should I want aircon?
I don't think I am all that fussed. The car wont be used for commuting so I'm not that bothered if it takes a while to demist.
What updates were there in 2003?
I can’t stand the later wheels so am unlikely to buy a later car.
What is the sound system like? Is it any good? Are upgrades easy/cheap?
I'm no connoisseur so as long as it is reasonable I should be happy.
A lot of the cars seem to have saggy leather on the driver’s seat – can this be fixed?
What sort of MPG can I reasonably expect on “brisk” driving on A roads and on a long run on A roads?
Does it feel fast?
This will be my first car. I'm used to driving my Mum's 1.2 Grande Punto - I think it will feel like a rocketship in comparison!
Fastest Colour?
What specific things should I be looking for when I view the cars? Any common problems?
Many thanks for your help!
I'm sure I'll think of lots more questions in the next 2 months!
When are the major services and what is the expected cost?
How many miles are they “good” for?
I could be tempted into a high mileage one if it is particularly cheap. Mostly though I am looking at low/average miles cars though.
Should I want a hardtop?
I can’t imagine it is all that bad with just the roof up even in bad weather. I doubt I would ever use a hardtop as I'd be worried I would miss good weather days.
How much could I realistically sell a hardtop for if I buy a car with one? £500?
What is mohair?
Do the roofs leak at all?
Should I want aircon?
I don't think I am all that fussed. The car wont be used for commuting so I'm not that bothered if it takes a while to demist.
What updates were there in 2003?
I can’t stand the later wheels so am unlikely to buy a later car.
What is the sound system like? Is it any good? Are upgrades easy/cheap?
I'm no connoisseur so as long as it is reasonable I should be happy.
A lot of the cars seem to have saggy leather on the driver’s seat – can this be fixed?
What sort of MPG can I reasonably expect on “brisk” driving on A roads and on a long run on A roads?
Does it feel fast?
This will be my first car. I'm used to driving my Mum's 1.2 Grande Punto - I think it will feel like a rocketship in comparison!
Fastest Colour?
What specific things should I be looking for when I view the cars? Any common problems?
Many thanks for your help!
I'm sure I'll think of lots more questions in the next 2 months!
TVR MAN said:
I’m thinking of buying a Mk2.5 Sport in May/June as a present to myself after finishing university.
This will be my first car.
Have you looked into insurance costs? Imports aside, a mk 2.5 sport is the most expensive to insure of all mx-5s.This will be my first car.
With it being your first car do you need the fastest model with a LSD (I'm in a very similar position to you and it's not my first car and I don't think that I do).
As for the hard top question, £500 is about the going rate.
Mileage wise, the engines are all but bomb proof, suspension components do wear though so that's the biggest implication of a high miler.
Mohair is the material that a roof can be made of, the other material is vinyl, mohair is better.
Not many UK cars come with aircon so I wouldn't limit myself to cars with it if I were you.
Common problems are rust on the sills and boot.
Sound system wise, due to space upgrades aren't that easy (other than new door speakers and a better headunit) but you can have windbreakers with speakers in, and maybe a compact sub under the seat.
A page which is useful for special editions (there are a lot of them) is here:
http://www.mx5-3rdgenerationlimited.com/mx5limited...
When are the major services and what is the expected cost?
Every 9K miles, the "biggie" is the cambelt service at 63k. As for cost, it just depends on where you go. If someone like me can do oil changes and brakes then anyone can. Here's the service schedule
How many miles are they “good” for?
I could be tempted into a high mileage one if it is particularly cheap. Mostly though I am looking at low/average miles cars though.
Mine has 157k on the clock and is still going strong. There's plenty of others out there with more mileage.
Should I want a hardtop?
I can’t imagine it is all that bad with just the roof up even in bad weather. I doubt I would ever use a hardtop as I'd be worried I would miss good weather days.
Personal choice really. I like having mine on over the winter months, gives the car a more cosy feel, better view out of the rear window and also stiffens the car up a bit. I do think that it protects the hood from the harsh frosts, which is why I believe my hood is still in excellent condition at 11 years old. On top of that you get another look to the car. I'll be taking mine off as soon as I have another pair of hands to help me.
How much could I realistically sell a hardtop for if I buy a car with one? £500?
Depending on condition, colour etc and time of year then £350-£500
What is mohair?
It's like a hairy fabric, rather than vinyl of the mk1 and mk2.
Do the roofs leak at all?
Can do, the worst thing I find is if the hood is wet and you open the door the water drops onto the seat. It's as good as you maintain it.
Should I want aircon?
I don't think I am all that fussed. The car wont be used for commuting so I'm not that bothered if it takes a while to demist.
Personal choice I'd say. There's only been a couple of days when I really wanted aircon for hot weather.
What updates were there in 2003?
I can’t stand the later wheels so am unlikely to buy a later car.
Updates? Not sure what yu mean but have a look on here for the limited editions.
What is the sound system like? Is it any good? Are upgrades easy/cheap?
I'm no connoisseur so as long as it is reasonable I should be happy.
Can't answer as I have the mk2. I'm happy with mine but you can upgrade easy enough.
A lot of the cars seem to have saggy leather on the driver’s seat – can this be fixed?
Re-upholster the seats if they are *that* bad, or buy some replacements from ebay.
What sort of MPG can I reasonably expect on “brisk” driving on A roads and on a long run on A roads?
In my mk2 I get about 34mpg, but that can go up to 39 on long journeys.
Does it feel fast?
This will be my first car. I'm used to driving my Mum's 1.2 Grande Punto - I think it will feel like a rocketship in comparison!
Then yes, but after a while you will hanker after more power for the straights, we all do...
Fastest Colour?
Blue, of course!
What specific things should I be looking for when I view the cars? Any common problems?
Rusty sills and wheel arches, even in the mk2.5.
Every 9K miles, the "biggie" is the cambelt service at 63k. As for cost, it just depends on where you go. If someone like me can do oil changes and brakes then anyone can. Here's the service schedule
How many miles are they “good” for?
I could be tempted into a high mileage one if it is particularly cheap. Mostly though I am looking at low/average miles cars though.
Mine has 157k on the clock and is still going strong. There's plenty of others out there with more mileage.
Should I want a hardtop?
I can’t imagine it is all that bad with just the roof up even in bad weather. I doubt I would ever use a hardtop as I'd be worried I would miss good weather days.
Personal choice really. I like having mine on over the winter months, gives the car a more cosy feel, better view out of the rear window and also stiffens the car up a bit. I do think that it protects the hood from the harsh frosts, which is why I believe my hood is still in excellent condition at 11 years old. On top of that you get another look to the car. I'll be taking mine off as soon as I have another pair of hands to help me.
How much could I realistically sell a hardtop for if I buy a car with one? £500?
Depending on condition, colour etc and time of year then £350-£500
What is mohair?
It's like a hairy fabric, rather than vinyl of the mk1 and mk2.
Do the roofs leak at all?
Can do, the worst thing I find is if the hood is wet and you open the door the water drops onto the seat. It's as good as you maintain it.
Should I want aircon?
I don't think I am all that fussed. The car wont be used for commuting so I'm not that bothered if it takes a while to demist.
Personal choice I'd say. There's only been a couple of days when I really wanted aircon for hot weather.
What updates were there in 2003?
I can’t stand the later wheels so am unlikely to buy a later car.
Updates? Not sure what yu mean but have a look on here for the limited editions.
What is the sound system like? Is it any good? Are upgrades easy/cheap?
I'm no connoisseur so as long as it is reasonable I should be happy.
Can't answer as I have the mk2. I'm happy with mine but you can upgrade easy enough.
A lot of the cars seem to have saggy leather on the driver’s seat – can this be fixed?
Re-upholster the seats if they are *that* bad, or buy some replacements from ebay.
What sort of MPG can I reasonably expect on “brisk” driving on A roads and on a long run on A roads?
In my mk2 I get about 34mpg, but that can go up to 39 on long journeys.
Does it feel fast?
This will be my first car. I'm used to driving my Mum's 1.2 Grande Punto - I think it will feel like a rocketship in comparison!
Then yes, but after a while you will hanker after more power for the straights, we all do...
Fastest Colour?
Blue, of course!
What specific things should I be looking for when I view the cars? Any common problems?
Rusty sills and wheel arches, even in the mk2.5.
Disco You said:
Have you looked into insurance costs? Imports aside, a mk 2.5 sport is the most expensive to insure of all mx-5s.
I've spent hours going through various combinations on comparison sites. Insurance is surprisingly reasonable compared to other cars in my opinion. I don't yet know where I will be based after graduation but will most likely be Edinburgh, Glasgow or London. Insurance in London is around £2000 but in Edinburgh is around £1100 which I am fine with. Disco You said:
With it being your first car do you need the fastest model with a LSD?
Yes 
Insurance was barely any different for me for any mx-5 from Mk1.6 to Mk3 Sport! I also like the heated leather seats and prefer the looks of the sport.Thanks for that excellent response Claire! 
Still not convinced I want a hardtop. Will probably sell it if I end up with one. I'll view air-con as a bonus but not bothered either way.
Your MPG sounds really good and I'd be happy with that.
Have you replaced or done anything to the suspension on your 157k car?
Still not convinced I want a hardtop. Will probably sell it if I end up with one. I'll view air-con as a bonus but not bothered either way.
Your MPG sounds really good and I'd be happy with that.
Have you replaced or done anything to the suspension on your 157k car?
My Mk2.5 has just ticked over 80k and is still going strong; in fact I'm planning to supercharge it!
I have the roof down all of the time so a hardtop was entirely pointless to me, I agree with Claire on her valuation.
My roof doesn't leak, I find it's far better to put the roof up and then shut the doors than put the windows into the roof; as Claire mentioned opening the door you do sometimes get some drips in but it's nothing much.
Air-con was a must have for me until I bought a car without, I don't care at all. No need unless you want the roof up in the heat and the A/C on.
No real updates between 2001 (first year of the Mk2.5) and 2005 (the last year) there were a few minor things; boot lights came in around '03 and a few other things, nothing major though. The only differences on wheels will be between non-Sport/Sport & the (many!) special additions.
Sound system is fine, I have the more basic one and it's fine.
I obviously thrash mine far more than Claire as I average around 25-26MPG, mid 30s on a run (high 30s with a light foot, but I don't have one of those!)
They're quicker than people think in a straight line (the VVT is pretty pokey for it's weight) but the corners are where you'll make up the speed. I've left many cars standing after a quick blast around a roundabout!
Blue is the best!
Sorry for my disjointed replies, I was replying in order to your questions!
Check my profile for more, I've done some writing about my car.
I have the roof down all of the time so a hardtop was entirely pointless to me, I agree with Claire on her valuation.
My roof doesn't leak, I find it's far better to put the roof up and then shut the doors than put the windows into the roof; as Claire mentioned opening the door you do sometimes get some drips in but it's nothing much.
Air-con was a must have for me until I bought a car without, I don't care at all. No need unless you want the roof up in the heat and the A/C on.
No real updates between 2001 (first year of the Mk2.5) and 2005 (the last year) there were a few minor things; boot lights came in around '03 and a few other things, nothing major though. The only differences on wheels will be between non-Sport/Sport & the (many!) special additions.
Sound system is fine, I have the more basic one and it's fine.
I obviously thrash mine far more than Claire as I average around 25-26MPG, mid 30s on a run (high 30s with a light foot, but I don't have one of those!
)They're quicker than people think in a straight line (the VVT is pretty pokey for it's weight) but the corners are where you'll make up the speed. I've left many cars standing after a quick blast around a roundabout!
Blue is the best!
Sorry for my disjointed replies, I was replying in order to your questions!
Check my profile for more, I've done some writing about my car.
Thanks Luke.
It was reading your profile that prompted the MPG question!
The wheels I said I disliked were these:
But those seem to be on later cars that I think are too expensive.
I'm looking to spend 4 to 5k so its mostly earlier cars I'm seeing.
Is there an upgraded speaker system when you say you have the basic one?
I'm a fan of the dark green cars but they seem quite rare.
This seems like a good deal to me if in good condition:
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2011...
Also this:
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2011...
What do you think? I'm not looking to buy for another couple of months yet but those would tempt me if they were around at the time.
It was reading your profile that prompted the MPG question!
The wheels I said I disliked were these:
But those seem to be on later cars that I think are too expensive.
I'm looking to spend 4 to 5k so its mostly earlier cars I'm seeing.
Is there an upgraded speaker system when you say you have the basic one?
I'm a fan of the dark green cars but they seem quite rare.
This seems like a good deal to me if in good condition:
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2011...
Also this:
http://www.autotrader.co.uk/classified/advert/2011...
What do you think? I'm not looking to buy for another couple of months yet but those would tempt me if they were around at the time.
Those two cars are nice, personally black with the all black interior would switch me off (I have plans to 'spruce' up my interior and bring some colour to it!). Either would be a good buy though!
I don't think the speakers changed with the different stereo specs (there was a Bose but I have no idea if it was available in the UK, I've only ever seen in on American cars) but mine has the single-disc CD. They did tape with CD, Mini-disc with CD and a CD changer.
Those wheels are horrible as well...
Well worth checking out this thread where I asked plenty of Mk2.5 related questions, plenty of useful stuff on there!
I don't think the speakers changed with the different stereo specs (there was a Bose but I have no idea if it was available in the UK, I've only ever seen in on American cars) but mine has the single-disc CD. They did tape with CD, Mini-disc with CD and a CD changer.
Those wheels are horrible as well...
Well worth checking out this thread where I asked plenty of Mk2.5 related questions, plenty of useful stuff on there!
TVR MAN said:
Thanks for that excellent response Claire!
Have you replaced or done anything to the suspension on your 157k car?
The car came with Bilsteins, which gives quite a harsh ride, I replaced with KYB AGX/FM shocks and springs at about 89k miles, although there was nothing wrong with them, just wanted to get the car lowered.Have you replaced or done anything to the suspension on your 157k car?
TVR MAN said:
Is there an upgraded speaker system when you say you have the basic one?
We have the 'Euphonic' special edition which is basically the 2.5 Sport with an upgraded sound system (different speakers and headunit). My honest evaluation is that with the noise the soft top lets in I wouldn't pay any difference for the upgraded sound system.Mk2.5 Billies too harsh? I got rid of mine because they were too soft, spongy & rolly!
Around 2003 they did change a few things - silver faced modular stereo (instead of black), low fuel light, boot-light, heated mirrors for example.
My 2001 Sport came with heated leather seats, AC, modular stereo with 10 disc in-dash changer, and a vinyl roof. I like having the AC, it's not used that often but I'm very glad I have it when I do need it. It's not that rare an option on Mk2.5s as by then most manufacturers were fitting it to everything.
I've improved my stereo a lot by swapping the head using for a Kenwood unit and 8" JBL speakers and I'm using a very old Phillips DAP300 amp that I've owned for more years than I care to remember. Sounds great with more bass than I ever expected to get in a convertible!
Around 2003 they did change a few things - silver faced modular stereo (instead of black), low fuel light, boot-light, heated mirrors for example.
My 2001 Sport came with heated leather seats, AC, modular stereo with 10 disc in-dash changer, and a vinyl roof. I like having the AC, it's not used that often but I'm very glad I have it when I do need it. It's not that rare an option on Mk2.5s as by then most manufacturers were fitting it to everything.
I've improved my stereo a lot by swapping the head using for a Kenwood unit and 8" JBL speakers and I'm using a very old Phillips DAP300 amp that I've owned for more years than I care to remember. Sounds great with more bass than I ever expected to get in a convertible!
maser_spyder said:
Mrs Maser's Mk2.5 Sport is due to be sold in May/JuneJuly
Will keep an eye out for it pernod said:
We have the 'Euphonic' special edition which is basically the 2.5 Sport with an upgraded sound system (different speakers and headunit). My honest evaluation is that with the noise the soft top lets in I wouldn't pay any difference for the upgraded sound system.
Love the looks of the Euphonic. Are the 1.8s mechanically the same as the Sport with the body stiffening, big brakes, LSD, 6 speed etc? And are they all like this or were these options?Does anyone happen to know the number of Sports produced in each colour?
Thought I'd just answer the questions where I've got something useful to add! I've got a 2003 Nevada.
Should I want a hardtop?
Mine hasn't got a hard top. I've used it through 2 winters, other than having to clear snow off the soft-top I haven't missed having a hard-top. Heater does a good enough job even in cold conditons.
Do the roofs leak at all?
Mine doesn't. If it does there's something wrong with it.
Should I want aircon?
Demisting doesn't matter. Only times you'll want aircon is on very hot days (30 degrees plus) when you're stationary in traffic. As long as the car's moving airflow with the roof down is enough, but it can get very hot very quickly if you're in the sun and not moving.
What is the sound system like? Is it any good? Are upgrades easy/cheap?
Standard radio and CD is reasonable. It's a modular system, so it's possible to add tape/minidisc/CD changer reasonably cheaply if you really want. I've seen the Bose system get bad reviews, but I don't know if it was ever available in the UK. If you're technically minded it's possible to add an MP3 line-in. There's a lot more infomation over at www.miata.net. It's a standard double din, so changing to either a more modern double din or a single din is easy.
What sort of MPG can I reasonably expect on “brisk” driving on A roads and on a long run on A roads?
Long run 30mpg, 35mpg if you're being very sensible. Brisk driving can drop it a bit, but not to a silly extent - usual figures quoted are around 25mpg, tho I've read someone managed to get it down to the teens with track use!
Does it feel fast?
I went from an ancient 1.6 Megane, my car feels much faster than that. With the roof down 50-60mph will feel fast. You will, however, have to accept that in drag races it's definately not the fastest car on the road, especially as all the power is at the top of the rev range. I commonly get outdragged by rep mobiles and 4x4s coming off roundabouts.
What specific things should I be looking for when I view the cars? Any common problems?
Rust, rust, rust - there probably will be some on any car you look at, but if it's severe, especially around the wheel arches, walk away or get a big discount. Make sure you're aware when belts are supposed to have been done.
I would consider getting one of the different editions rather than the Sport. Bilstein suspension feels subsantially different to standard, and 16" tyres are much more expensive than the standard 15".
Should I want a hardtop?
Mine hasn't got a hard top. I've used it through 2 winters, other than having to clear snow off the soft-top I haven't missed having a hard-top. Heater does a good enough job even in cold conditons.
Do the roofs leak at all?
Mine doesn't. If it does there's something wrong with it.
Should I want aircon?
Demisting doesn't matter. Only times you'll want aircon is on very hot days (30 degrees plus) when you're stationary in traffic. As long as the car's moving airflow with the roof down is enough, but it can get very hot very quickly if you're in the sun and not moving.
What is the sound system like? Is it any good? Are upgrades easy/cheap?
Standard radio and CD is reasonable. It's a modular system, so it's possible to add tape/minidisc/CD changer reasonably cheaply if you really want. I've seen the Bose system get bad reviews, but I don't know if it was ever available in the UK. If you're technically minded it's possible to add an MP3 line-in. There's a lot more infomation over at www.miata.net. It's a standard double din, so changing to either a more modern double din or a single din is easy.
What sort of MPG can I reasonably expect on “brisk” driving on A roads and on a long run on A roads?
Long run 30mpg, 35mpg if you're being very sensible. Brisk driving can drop it a bit, but not to a silly extent - usual figures quoted are around 25mpg, tho I've read someone managed to get it down to the teens with track use!
Does it feel fast?
I went from an ancient 1.6 Megane, my car feels much faster than that. With the roof down 50-60mph will feel fast. You will, however, have to accept that in drag races it's definately not the fastest car on the road, especially as all the power is at the top of the rev range. I commonly get outdragged by rep mobiles and 4x4s coming off roundabouts.
What specific things should I be looking for when I view the cars? Any common problems?
Rust, rust, rust - there probably will be some on any car you look at, but if it's severe, especially around the wheel arches, walk away or get a big discount. Make sure you're aware when belts are supposed to have been done.
I would consider getting one of the different editions rather than the Sport. Bilstein suspension feels subsantially different to standard, and 16" tyres are much more expensive than the standard 15".
TVR MAN said:
Love the looks of the Euphonic. Are the 1.8s mechanically the same as the Sport with the body stiffening, big brakes, LSD, 6 speed etc? And are they all like this or were these options?
Not sure if the Euphonic got the bigger brakes and stiffening.http://www.mx5-3rdgenerationlimited.com/euphonic.h...
Regards
Steve
TVR MAN said:
Love the looks of the Euphonic. Are the 1.8s mechanically the same as the Sport with the body stiffening, big brakes, LSD, 6 speed etc? And are they all like this or were these options?
The answer is largely not: http://mx5-3rdgenerationlimited.com/euphonic.htmBonefish Blues said:
The answer is largely not: http://mx5-3rdgenerationlimited.com/euphonic.htm
Whoops - my bad! Nope it's based on the standard + an LSD and larger wheels (think it has the larger brakes but not really checked). It doesn't have the stiffening or the 6 speed.Gassing Station | Mazda MX5/Roadster/Miata | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff