2001 Mazda MX5 LS review from North America
"Still the most fun you can have for any price!"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
PCM needs replacement for BS reason.
That's it...
General comments?
So this is my third Mazda Miata. The cars are incredible! My first and second, 1994/1995 respectively, were both great cars, but this one is slightly faster, rides much better, has much better looking interior and exterior, and is quieter.
The car handles better than my old NA Miatas, but does not feel quite as snappy. The projector beam headlights are worlds better, fogs are nice if kinda pointless (car is like a foot off ground!) Stronger engine combined with Sport model bigger brakes and extra frame bracing make this car awesome. I have not had car long, but expect it to hold up just like my old NA Miatas. Speed tranny is just as brilliant as old ones. Glass window is nice touch too.
The problem is that ten minutes after driving car off lot I've got Check engine light! Apparently, 01-02 Miatas had misprogrammed computer that results in no VVT action in the motor. Drivability is fine but I'm jipped out of about 5 horsepower and it's $1500 for a properly programmed computer! Oh well, I'll get my hands on a 2003 computer and that should fix problem.
Also I've got the full appearance package which is growing on me.
Midnight blue Mica paint is stunning! I'll keep this car till I can afford a Mazdaspeed Miata!
Recommended reviews
| Unparalleled handling and sufficient speed for cheap! |
| It'd be a great second car.. |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 2001 |
| Year of manufacture | 2001 |
| First year of ownership | 2008 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8 DOHC VVT Manual |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 6 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 2 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 96000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 101000 miles |
| Previous car | Mazda MX5 |
| Date of Entry | 4th August, 2008 |