The rear wheel drive Mazda MX-5 redefined the convertible game when it arrived 25 years ago but can it still fend off rivals, we find out writes Geraldine Herbert
What is it? The MX-5 has attracted a loyal following for its smart looks, seductive character and affordable cost.
Who is it aimed at? This two seater is the world’s best selling sports car and is the ideal car for anyone seduced by the allure of top down driving.
Styling?A facelift last year sharpened the look with more muscular, pumped-out guards, triangular fog lamp and a rounded bonnet but the MX-5 remains instantly recognisable.
Under the Bonnet? Our test car came with a 2.0 litre petrol engine which dashes from rest to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds and has a top speed of 218 km/h.
What about inside? Slid behind the wheel and the interior is basic but not sparse. The dark plastics of previous versions have given way to a good looking dash and better quality feel throughout. Like all low slung roadsters getting in and out is almost a workout in itself but once nestled behind the small sport steering wheel it is very easy to get comfortable. Small mirrors, windows and snug cabin makes for poor visibility but all can be improved in seconds by dropping the hard top roof and it means you won’t miss a single admiring glance. Operating the roof is simplicity itself but be warned you’ll have to pack light for weekends away.
On the Road? Press you foot on the accelerator and instantly you discover just how much fun the MX-5 is. Take it on a twisty back road and it responds sharply, hangs on tenaciously and grips fearlessly. On the downside the engine needs to be revved to get the best out of it so it’s a tad tiring on long journeys and it does border on noisy.
And Safety? The MX-5 not only looks great but it is as safe as any other car out there and comes with a host of active and passive safety features including airbags all around and traction and dynamic stability control to keep you firmly planted on the road at all times.
Economy? Fuel efficiency is not a strong point and on a mix of city and motorway driving the MX-5 will return an average of 7.8 litres per 100 km/h or 36mpg although we found it a little more of a fuel guzzler than the official figure suggests. Co2 emissions of 181 g/km means motor tax is an expensive €750 per year.
Verdict? So much fun and charm crammed into such an iconic roadster the MX-5 offers exquisite road handling and balance at an affordable price. Despite having only two seats, a miniscule boot and poor economy and emissions figures if it wasn’t for the kids, the family pets and the weekly shopping it would be at the very top of our wish list!
Why you’ll buy one? Fun to drive; Reliable; Classic
Why you won’t? A new 4th generation MX-5 has just been unveiled
Rivals
BMW Z4 – Priced from €48,447
Audi TT Roadster – Priced from €47,870
Audi A3 Cabriolet – Priced from €36,710
Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe 2.0I Sport Tech
Engine: 1999cc, 160ps @7,000 rpm, 188Nm @5,000rpm
Max speed: 218km/h
0-100 kph: 7.9 seconds
Emissions (Motor Tax) : 181 g/km (€750)
Model price: €32,995
No of Doors: 2 doors
Euro NCAP : Not tested
Fuel type: Petrol
Fuel Economy (combined cycle): 7.8 l/100km (36 mpg)
Boot Capacity Seats up: 150 litres
Length: 4020mm
Width: 1720mm
Height: 1255mm
Wheelbase: 2330 mm
For more information visit mazda.ie , the Mazda Ireland Facebook page or check out the video below for an overview of 25 years of the MX-5
Geraldine Herbert
10th July, 2014
