BEST USED CABRIOLET MAZDA MX-5 Mk3
OUR PICK Mazda MX-5 2012 (12) Mk3 2.0i Sport Tech, 34,000 miles, £9,490
A USED example of Mazda’s MX-5 offers nearly as much as a new version does. Although there have been refinements to the recipe over the years, the roadster’s core remains: it’s a fun, two-seat, naturally aspirated driver’s car – and it’s a great used buy.
When the latest Mk4 model was released a few years ago, it meant values of the older Mk3 version became more accessible, so you can bag a bargain on what is still a brilliant cabriolet.
Early models are very cheap these days, with some Mk3 MX-5S as low as £3,250, but we’d go for something a bit newer than that. We found a postfacelift 2012 car with 34,000 miles on the clock for less than £10,000, which looks like a top buy thanks to its sharper looks and extra kit over older models.
The Mazda is great to drive, with sweet steering, a fantastic manual gearshift and a revvy 158bhp naturally aspirated 2.0-litre engine under the bonnet. It’s a true driver’s car that can still be enjoyed every day, and anyone can get a kick out of its engaging handling on nearly any road. Any potential buy should run sweetly, because these cars are reliable and at this age should be free from faults.
There are plenty of creature comforts on the Sport Tech model we’ve picked out, including heated leather seats, a Bose stereo and cruise control. Heated seats in particular are great for those sunny winter days when you just have to get the roof down – which brings us on to the MX-5’S USP. The Mazda was available with a soft or hard-top, and while the metal roof does add a bit of extra refinement and security, the fabric hood is cheaper and just as weatherproof.
Yet both versions add another dimension to the driving experience, with open-air thrills on offer. The manual soft-top folds down quickly, too, which means you can spend more time enjoying open-air motoring. “It’s a true driver’s car that can still be enjoyed every day, and anyone can get a kick out of its engaging handling”