I’ve said it before on here, if you are looking at MX5s, also consider looking at either a Rocketeer or one tweaked by BBR. Both make a good car even better.

Rocketeers come up on Car & Classic from time to time and BBR usually have some fettled cars for sale:

https://bbrgti.com/

Or, these are rare and not as nimble as an MX5 but fun with the V6 and perhaps more room for the dog?

http://www.autotrader.co.uk/car-details/202407061499408

I’ve owned a few Mk1 MX5s and the last one was a JDM only Eunos RS, which was a lovely thing. I’ve found the footprint, cost to run and lack of pretensions make them a lot of fun to own.

If you want the convenience of a metal roof, you could also consider an MX5 RF, which in 2024 scored very well in ECOTY

https://www.evo.co.uk/mazda/mx-5/207542/the-2025-mazda-mx-5-is-all-the-sports-car-you-need