1999 Mazda MX5 review from North America
"Great city and track roadster"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Alternator went at 136000km. Had it replaced with a rebuild. $190.00.
Clutch slave went at 137500km. Replaced with an OEM part. $160.
General comments?
The Miata caught my eye a little under a year ago, and I spent months searching for the perfect example. The 99s appealed to me because they had the advancements of the NBs, but a sub-$9000 price tag.
The car so far has been a dream to drive. Acceleration is somewhat sluggish unless you shift above 4000 revs in first and second (for the sake of my gas bill, I reserve this driving style for very special occasions).
If driven economically, my car returns about 24MPG in the city and close to 30 on the highway (though the car provides a scary highway experience, especially at night in the rain; so I mostly take city roads).
Overall, I can't say enough about the car. The few niggles I've experienced have paled in comparison to the many problems I had with my Jetta. The Miata is exactly what I expected it to be: an economical cruiser with everyday practicality (just don't expect to haul a new dresser drawer in the trunk!)
Recommended reviews
| Great looking car, fun to drive |
|
| Incredible performance for cheap |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1999 |
| Year of manufacture | 1999 |
| First year of ownership | 2008 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2009 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8 Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 8 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 130000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 138000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Volkswagen Jetta |
| Date of Entry | 1st April, 2009 |