Buying a Used Mazda MX-5: What to Check

The MX-5 is one of the purest driving cars you can buy. It is light, simple, reliable and fun at normal speeds, which is why so many people keep coming back to it. Used, it is a great choice, as long as you check the things that matter on a small sports car.

The basics

The current ND MX-5 has been sold in Australia with 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre engines. The 2.0-litre G20 makes 135 kW and 205 Nm, driving the rear wheels through a six-speed manual or an automatic. The roadster has a manual soft top. The RF has a folding hard roof.

What the GT RS adds

The GT RS is the enthusiast’s choice. It is manual only, and it adds Bilstein dampers, Brembo front brakes, BBS forged wheels and a front strut brace. It has the same engine output as the other 2.0-litre cars. Check that the RS parts are present and original if you are paying RS money.

Check the roof

Open and close the roof several times. Look at the fabric for wear and tears, check the rubber seals, and look for water marks on the carpet and in the boot. The drains need to stay clear. In a Brisbane storm, a small leak becomes a wet floor quickly.

Clutch, tyres and track use

Many MX-5s are driven gently. Some go to track days. Ask the owner, and check the clutch take-up, the gear changes and the tyres and brakes. Heavy wear on the tyre shoulders or aftermarket brake pads can point to hard use.

Modifications

Wheels, exhausts, suspension and intakes are popular changes. Some are fine. Make sure any modifications are legal in Queensland and declared to your insurer, and keep in mind that a well-kept original car is usually easier to sell later.

The usual checks still apply

Run a PPSR check, look at the service history, check for recalls by VIN on the vehicle recall register, and take a proper test drive.

Our MX-5

We currently have a near-new Mazda MX-5 G20 GT RS manual roadster with very low kilometres in our West End showroom. You can see it at the end of this article, and read how we select used cars.

Quick answers

What engine does the Mazda MX-5 G20 have?

A 2.0-litre petrol engine making 135 kW and 205 Nm, driving the rear wheels.

What does the MX-5 GT RS add?

Bilstein dampers, Brembo front brakes, BBS wheels and a front strut brace. It is manual only and has the same power as other 2.0-litre cars.

Is the MX-5 reliable?

It has a strong reputation for reliability. As with any car, servicing and how it has been driven matter.

What should I check on an MX-5 soft top?

The fabric, the seals, the drains and the carpets for any sign of water leaks.

Looking for a sports car in Brisbane?

See our current cars, book a test drive, or ask our vehicle sourcing service to find the right one.