1993 Mazda MX5 Hardtop review from Australia and New Zealand

Plastic exterior parts have faded. This is due to age and some brands of car wash.

Plastic instruments cover has blurred, making looking at the speedometer difficult.

Even for its size, the MX-5 is a seriously light car. This is due to use of aluminium on some panels.

Combined with the rear wheel drive and great suspension, it handles really well.

The gearshift is great, but takes some getting used to.

The car revs well past its 7000 red line, but is more noise than acceleration at that point. Best acceleration comes through upshifting at about 6200.

Combination of rear wheel drive and general size of vehicle means that there is little interior room (unless the top's down) and even less boot space.

Spacesaver spare tire is standard, but handles surprisingly well when needed (maximum speed 80km/h).

3330 revs at 100km/h translates into being a little drony on the highway, however it's not awful.

Acceleration is leisurely for a sports car, about 9 seconds to 100km/h, but will cruise nicely at 150 (if you can put up with the sound of 5000rpm). Top speed is 185.

180 degree spins are easy in the MX-5.

This car is best appreciated by those who just want to have fun, and who don't have to much to transport (peoplewise or luggagewise).