FIVE TRIALS
We enjoy the Mazda MK-5 MKII and put it fully to the test
1 DAILY DRIVING
It’s perfectly possible to use an MX-5 every day. They almost always start in the morning and have a modern heater and demister. Just like their classic inspirations, though, these Mazdas still feel pretty basic. There are very few ‘toys’ in the cabin and the general sound- and weather-proofing is more akin to those classic favourites. There’s little of the year-round practicality of a modern roadster with its retractable hard-top, though a factory Mazda hard-top does improve things hugely. A heavy clutch and transmission can make the commute a bit of a chore, though you likely won’t care on those rare occasions when the sun comes out on your Friday evening blast down the scenic route home.
2 IN THE SERVICE BAY
Using widely available Mazda components – most of which were carried over from the first MX-5 – kept the MKII’S price competitive. It also means that the cost of keeping one in good order today is similarly affordable. Very little of what regularly fails on these cars is scary or expensive and they can easily rack up 200k miles without major incident with regular and comprehensive servicing. They’re typically robust, then, but still need upkeep so beware of any that seem to have been limped along on a shoestring. Many of these have now been consigned to the scrapheap anyway but it’s worth checking the service history. That said, an example that seems to be in rude health but lacks paperwork needn’t be a deal-breaker.
3 ON THE SHOW CIRCUIT
The cult of MX-5 means that these enormously popular machines (especially among younger enthusiasts) have already got their own meets and events. They’ve even forced their way into the classic scene. Their classic-aping looks and driving characteristics endear them to many older drivers who well remember the battles to keep sporty Brits on the road in period. It’s been said by many that the MX-5 is the new MGB. Their popularity arises from the same spring; they’re attractive, don’t ask a lot from the driver and provide an entry-level sporting feel without many of the true sports car compromises. They’re easy to live with, reliable and cheap to maintain but still a giggle to drive.
4 THE LONG WEEKEND
Now this is what the MX-5 was born to do; it’s the ideal getaway machine. There’s just enough room for two to sit comfortably and while the boot is deep but not too tall – don’t expect to get a big suitcase back there – it’s ideal for the short hop to somewhere scenic however. There are some nutters out there who take their MX-5S on continental touring adventures, but we’d suggest that this isn’t really playing to this car’s strengths. Book somewhere in Snowdonia last minute on a sunny Friday evening and cruise over in a few hours to enjoy a weekend of coastal and mountain roads and you’re very much in the MX-5 MKII’S sweet spot. How much longer until its summer?
5 THE B-ROAD BLAST
It’s not quite the paragon of handling that some (who likely haven’t driven a Lotus Elise) claim but the second-gen MX-5 is still a very neat B-road companion. The braking is a bit numb (and ABS was optional) and the chassis majors on compliance not strict body control so expect some roll. The steering is precise enough, though. The scope for improvement is temptingly vast – upgraded dampers and better brake discs and pads will do wonders while new roll bars and bushes plus some stickier tyres, will result in more lateral
G-forces.