Faults:

So far, nothing. But the short nose crankshaft might be a problem. Something to keep an eye on.

General Comments:

This car is a therapy on four wheels. I can't drive it (especially with the top down) without forgetting about any problems I might have at the moment. Just pure fun and happiness.

The strong point of this car is definitely handling. You feel totally in control and you have to push it really hard to make it "misbehave".

The 118hp engine is great, with a red line at 7200rpm. To really enjoy it, you have to rev it over 5000rpm.

The interior is simple, nice and functional. The seats are comfortables and the driving position is good.

Surprisingly, this little 2 seater handles great in the snow (with proper winter tires) and is a lot of fun on moderately slippery roads. (let alone parking lots. ;) )

I can't really be objective when talking about my Miata... to me, it's just the greatest sport car on earth. If you like to drive, you'll like the Miata.

Faults:

Nothing at all!

Only "normal" maintenance required.

90-93 version's crankshaft may break sometime after a timing belt change, but these occasions are rare.

General Comments:

This is a very reliable sports car that handles like few others. It's not a fast car, but is quick enough and very lively at high engine speeds.

If you don't like shifting, there are only a few automatics available (no 1990's however) as it is a much better car as a manual transmission.

It's perfect for a weekend driver, and great also for everyday as long as you don't mind only 2 seats and a small trunk. Also, this car doesn't like snow.

Faults:

Plug leads.

Hand brake sticking.

Door lock sticky.

General Comments:

Fabulous handling.

Reasonable performance.

Great build quality and very reliable.

Can't fit the kids in!

Great fun to drive at speeds which won't get you in to trouble.

The best value 'Drivers' car on the road.

Faults:

Spark plug wires.

General Comments:

9 years with my Miata.... I store it every winter and bring it out in the summer. Every year it puts a big grin on my face.

NOTHING has gone wrong since I owned this car... coming up on 160,000 km, I probably need to fix a front end oil seal and I'm on my 3rd set of spark plug wires (they last about 50,000 km.)

On long runs the Miata can be a bit noisy with the top up, buy it with the AC. I simply can't recommend this car enough. As long as you're prepared to live with its impractical configuation, it's a simply superb product. A great car and an even greater 2nd car.

As for performance... some may crave for more power (OK even I do sometimes) but there are TONS of excellent aftermarket kits available (the Miata drive train is EXTREMELY robust) and even stock, my 10 year old MX5 will get to 190 kph with very little drama (just did this in a fit of silliness the other day).

If you like the car you can buy it with 100% security.

Faults:

Battery died, but this is very common due to the fact that it is extremely small. Catalytic converter had to be replaced due to the heat shield corroding on the original. Bought a new one through the owners club. Much cheaper than one from Mazda.

General Comments:

Excellent car. Buy one now. The only reason we sold ours was due to the birth of our daughter. These cars have a serious feel good factor. Only thing to make sure of is a full service history and if it's done over 60,000 miles make sure it's had its major service including the cambelt.

Faults:

I have had no problems with this car. Only ordinary maintenance has been required to keep it running like new.

General Comments:

The MX-5 is a fun car. It is for tall people a bit small and trunk space is minimal. Smooth running engine. Seems very reliable.