Talk Morgan Forums Community Vehicle Talk (non-Morgan) Maybe an MX5

Chap coming up to morrow to look at and maybe buy the Ferrari. Simply not being used enough to warrant keeping it.

We have two modern cars - Merc Estate and Cooper S so we dont need a third. I cant see anything in the ideas generated by the earlier thread - the issue seems to be the dog, but also since my sailing obsession takes up a lot of my time, I'm not interested in an old car needing "get out and get under". So I am wondering about an MX5 of recent vintage ( say 2020 or later) as a way of getting my open motoring fix and simply using the main dealer for service. Since it wont cost a lot, it would be much more useable than the Ferrari.

What do you think? A test drive showed a gearbox to die for , a lovely smooth engine and the sort of chuckability that is fun.

Pity I cant find a 2 seat plus dog because that would allow a much more sensible 2 car family but the only fun option was a 911 and that takes me away from the cheap servicing, ease of ownership objective. Anyway, just as much of a come down from Ferrari to Porker as Ferrari to Mazda.

Or ( and dont tell SWMBO) but forget the MX5 and buy another bike despite having given up bikes for the 3rd time?

Throw the Fiat 124 Spider Abarth into the mix?

Here's what the Google AI says about the two in comparison:

"The Mazda MX-5 and Fiat 124 Spider Abarth are both excellent roadsters, but they cater to slightly different preferences. The MX-5 is known for its sharp handling and engaging naturally aspirated engine, while the Abarth offers a more relaxed, torquier experience with a turbocharged engine and firmer suspension. Both are fun to drive, but the Mazda is generally considered the better driver's car, while the Abarth may be preferred for everyday use.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Mazda MX-5 (ND):
Pros: Lightweight, agile, highly engaging handling, good fuel economy, reliable.
Cons: Engine can feel less powerful at lower speeds, less torque than the Abarth.
Overall: A purist's choice, emphasizing driver engagement and a direct connection to the road.

Fiat 124 Spider Abarth:
Pros: Turbocharged engine provides more low-end torque, feels quicker in everyday driving, more relaxed ride, unique styling.
Cons: May not handle as sharply as the MX-5, some may find the styling less appealing than the MX-5.
Overall: A good choice for those who value a more relaxed and powerful driving experience, with a unique Italian flair.

Which one should you choose?

For pure driving pleasure and agility: The Mazda MX-5 is the better option, especially the 2.0-litre version.
For a more relaxed and torquier experience: The Fiat 124 Spider Abarth is a great choice, particularly if you value a more comfortable ride and unique styling.
For everyday usability and a bit more power: The Abarth might be more appealing, but the MX-5 is still a great option for daily driving as well.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual preferences and priorities. Both are great cars, and the best way to decide is to test drive both and see which one feels better to you."

I'll go and find a fence to sit on ...

Having owned two Abarth 124's I'm slightly biased. Had my second one remapped and I'd go so far as to say it's the perfect small sports car.

While MX5's are undoubtedly great cars, they're just too common to be "special" IMHO.

Which in a way is a good reason for chosing one. The (hopefully) soon to be gone is as special as they come, which is why I fancy something ordinary and useable.

"For a more relaxed and torquier experience: The Fiat 124 Spider Abarth is a great choice"


They're having a laugh, relaxed, must be joking. We had a Abarth for about 3 years and whilst it was great fun the noise was horriic. Great for a 30 minute blast down a B road but anything else and you needed ear defenders. Very, very tiring on a long drive. The MX5, of which we have owned many over the years, is the complete opposite. You pays your money .....

Sir P

I feel ya. Are you in Britain? I went through a slew of supercars- 6 Ferraris, a Diabo 6.0, a Porsche GT2 set up as a club sport as well as a bunch of others, including a 993 c4 cabriolet and a pre-war car. I bought a Super 3 recently to get away from bikes --I'm getting old, I don't need speed as such. But you want a stick, I assume, a visceral drive, and something that isn't a headache to deal with. I had two of the newer Mini Coopers- one was set up as a "works" car and it was a "twitchy" daily driver. I'd look at serviceability and parts. FIAT was never really successful in the States- a stepchild at best (though I had a 124 sport back in the day and always loved the feel and look of the Italian cars). I'll follow this thread with interest. If you are in Britain or UK/EU, you have different choices than us Yanks.
Not a bad place to be, where you are asking this question. I get it.

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

That Evo review made me laugh, Simon, when it mentioned "poultry" performance- I think they meant "paltry" but in any case, exceeded expectations. No shame in those--I know they are treated as serious track day cars here.

I wonder if the exhaust flap was seized open ?

My second car was much noisier than the first and somewhat unpleasant at certain revs. Having owned one previously I knew something was wrong. Turns out that the spring-loaded valve in the exhaust was seized open, a fairly common problem as it turns out.

Your'e certainly right about the exhaust flap being a problem as mine was bought new and exhaust replaced under warranty after about 18months for that very problem.
As I said it was great fun for short drives, reving the nuts off it certainly put a smile on your face. But, a daily driver it was not nor a motorway car as it gave you headaches with the constant drone from that exhaust. The MX5 is a lot quieter and more user friendly which is why we have gone back to one.
To answer Howards question, yes it does everything you want apart from the doggy bit. Cheap to run, very reliable, just take it to local garage for service once a year and drive and forget.

Sir P