Mazda MX-5 (Roadster) 1998-2005 used car review
The Mazda MX-5/Roadster is a small sports car that is brilliant to drive.
The Mazda MX-5/Roadster is a small sports car that is brilliant to drive, though the 1.6-litre automatic lacks power.
The Mazda MX-5 was Mazda's answer to classic small British sports cars and was an instant sales success when launched in 1989. The second-generation model is commonly known as the “NB”. It is small, light and nimble, and fun to drive despite its low-powered engines. The Japanese-import version of the model, as reviewed here, is called the Roadster.
Inside and out
Most cars grow between generations, but not the MX-5. The second generation is only a few millimetres different in size to the first one. The most significant change is at the front, where the original pop-up headlights were replaced by fixed units - the large Mazda badge and smile-like air vent remain.
The fabric roof is easily folded down, undo two latches along the top of the windscreen and push it back - it folds behind the seats. It is the reverse putting it back up, and while some will be able to do this from the driver’s seat, most will find it easier to get out and pull it up from the outside. A clip-on hardtop roof is a desirable optional extra.
It can be a bit of a squeeze to get into the car when the roof is up - the car is low. Taller drivers will struggle with headroom. Once in, it strikes you how close to the ground you sit, in a sporty leaned back position. The steering wheel on most models is a Nardi-branded leather sports unit. The gauges are white with chrome trim around them, again for a sporty look.
Our review car has been fitted with an aftermarket touchscreen infotainment system which is above the basic controls for the air-conditioning. There are lots of little storage spaces in the cabin, including three along the rear of the centre console and behind the seats.
The seats themselves are comfortable, with large side bolsters and a high back - be aware larger people may find them a little bit tight around the sides. The MX-5 only has front seats - there is no room for passengers in the back.
There are compromises caused by the soft roof. Expect a lot of wind noise with it up or down, and with it down do not forget sunscreen and a hat, as there is little shelter from the sun.
At 144 litres the MX-5's boot is small, and a small opening means large items will be a struggle to fit. Choose soft luggage and there is enough space for two people to take a road trip. The boot can be opened with a key or a lever in the lockable centre console - this means there is some level of security for items back here even when the roof is down.
On the road
Two engines are commonly found in the MX-5/Roadster. All NZ-new models and some Japanese-import cars are fitted with a 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine, while a 1.6-litre four-cylinder is also available in the imports. A very rare 1.8-litre four-cylinder turbocharged model was also briefly sold in Japan and may make it here as an import.
Five and six-speed manual transmissions are available, while the automatic is a four-speed. Our review vehicle uses the 1.6-litre engine and the automatic. Power output is OK at 92kW and 142Nm, though the four-speed automatic is slow and saps a lot of the available power. The 1.8-litre with six-speed manual is definitely the best option in this car.
Despite the low power and slow transmission, this car is still fun to drive. The steering is quick and accurate, while there is little body roll and plenty of grip. You can push the car to lose rear-end traction, particularly in the wet, but it is fairly predictable and easy to control. You can really feel the road in the MX-5 and a twisty set of corners will put a smile on most drivers’ faces.
Our review vehicle is fitted with large aftermarket wheels, and we would avoid them - they make the ride a little harsh. With the roof up, visibility from the driver's seat is not great - although the car is so small parking remains easy. Parking sensors and reversing cameras were not fitted when the car is new, and we do not think they are required.
Safety
The used import Roadster version of this car has no safety rating, although it is largely the same as the NZ-new model - which carries a four-star ANCAP rating. Safety features are basic, with our car fitted with driver and passenger air-bags and antilock brakes - the latter are not standard although are fitted to most cars.
Many cars have been fitted with hoops or bars behind the seats, which appear to offer additional protection in a roll-over accident. Some are properly fixed to the chassis and a nice addition to have, although some are simply bolted to the top of the seat belt mounts and a more of a style feature.
Reliability
The Mazda MX-5/Roadster is considered to be very reliable - its relatively simple mechanics are durable and easy to repair. The engines do use cam belts which will require regular replacement, though replacement is on the cheaper side at $600-700.
The key thing to check when buying a Roadster is the roof. Repeated folding, UV light and weather can take its toll on the fabric top and the rear window. Look for wear, tears, and splits - particularly along the edges and where the roof folds. A tear will allow water into the inner lining, which will ruin the roof and could enter the cabin. New roof fabric can cost around $2,500 fitted. The job can be done at home but is very tricky.
If plastic, a common issue is the material becoming opaque with age and, in some cases, brittle leading to cracking. Look under all carpets and mats for any sign of dampness, previous moisture and evidence of rust. Listen for a whine from the rear of the car as this can indicate a worn-out differential unit. New ones are costly and used units - particularly the limited-slip versions - are hard to find.
The headlights can dull with age and sun damage. There are commercially available products that can be used to remove the discolouration.
Cost of ownership
Mazda recommends servicing the Roadster every 12 months or 10,000km, whichever comes first. Services cost around $280 a time.
RightCar estimates that over 14,000km of driving a year, the Roadster will use around $2,520 in fuel. The 48-litre fuel tank will cost $96 to fill at $2 a litre and could take you up to 475km before the fuel light comes on.
A vehicle licence for the Mazda costs $76.92 a year, with the vehicle in the cheapest ACC levy group for a petrol.
Trade Me Insurance estimates insurance for a Roadster valued at $8,680 will cost $51.36* per month. Some insurers may consider the car - with its soft-top roof - a security risk and charge more for cover.
Buyer's guide
The Mazda MX-5/Roadster is available on Trade Me priced from $4,000 to $18,000. NZ-new models get good money, while special edition versions with low mileages are worth the most.
Japanese models
- M - Powered by a 1.6-litre engine with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic. Features manual air-conditioning, fabric upholstery, manual air conditioning and CD player stereo.
- SP - Powered by a 1.6-litre engine with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic. Has “Nardi” sports steering wheel and premium audio system.
- NR-A - Powered by a 1.6-litre engine with a five-speed manual. Adds lightweight alloy wheels, red sports seats, red trim on the steering wheel and fog lights.
- S - Powered by a 1.8-litre engine with a six-speed manual or four-speed automatic. Otherwise as per SP model.
- RS - Powered by a 1.8-litre engine with a six-speed manual or four-speed automatic. As per M, with the addition of 16-inch alloy wheels and “Nardi” sports steering wheel.
- VS - Powered by a 1.8-litre engine with a six-speed manual or four-speed automatic. As per S model, with the addition of a Bose premium stereo system with subwoofer, 16-inch alloy wheels and full leather interior. “Combination A” is black leather, “Combination B” is tan leather with wood trim and a wood steering wheel rim.
- Turbo - Powered by a 1.8-litre engine turbocharged engine with six-speed manual transmission. Has 17-inch alloy wheels, front sports bumper with fog lights, sports suspension and the choice of black leather seats with red stitching or full red seats.
All six-speed manual models have a limited slip differential. Special edition models were also launched from time to time. Anti-lock brakes were an option on lower models.
It should be noted the Roadster was frequently modified, with aftermarket wheels, stereos, suspension components and differentials not unusual. The review vehicle features aftermarket wheels and an aftermarket stereo.
NZ New models
- Standard - Powered by a 1.8-litre engine paired to a six-speed manual transmission. Features 16-inch alloy wheels, CD player, remote central locking, fog lights and leather steering wheel.
- Heritage/Millennium - Adds tan leather interior, wood-rimmed steering wheel, chrome alloy wheels, sports suspension and a premium stereo.
Timeline
- 1998 Released globally
- 2000 Anniversary/Heritage model released
- 2001 Receives a cosmetic facelift
- 2004 Turbo model released
- 2005 Replaced by new model
Details
2003 Mazda (Roadster) MX-5 SP
$8,000 to $10,000 for models which have travelled 70,000 to 120,000km
1.6-litre four-cylinder, 92kW/142Nm (claimed)
Four-speed automatic, rear-wheel drive
Four-star ANCAP rating (NZ-new models)
10,000km or six months
Space saver
9-litres per 100km (claimed)
Regular
3980mm
1680mm
1220mm
9.4m
This review covers the Mazda MX-5 (Roadster) for model years 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005.
Review vehicle supplied by Turners Cars.
*Our insurance estimates are based on a 35-year-old male with no accidents in the last two years, garaging the car in Mission Bay, Auckland. The car is not used for business and will cover 10,000km-20,000km a year. We estimate with no optional add-ons and $750 excess. Customise your estimate at Trade Me Insurance.
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