White Mazda MX-5

Used Mazda MX-5

An affordable roadster that's fun to drive and affordable to run

Search Used Mazda MX-5

Used Mazda MX-5 for sale

Mazda MX-5 rear driving shot

The Mazda MX-5 is an affordable roadster that offers an engaging driving experience.

Few cars offer the same formula as the MX-5, which is low-slung, rear-wheel drive and well-equipped inside. You don't get as much power as more expensive rivals, such as the BMW Z4, but it makes up for this with lower running costs.

Reasons to consider the MX-5 as a used car purchase include:

  • A proper driver's car
  • Roof down fun
  • Zesty engines
  • Low running costs
  • Refined enough for everyday use

Engines and Driving Experience

Mazda MX-5 front quarter shot

The MX-5 excels as a driver's car thanks to its balanced chassis and low kerbweight. There isn't much in the way of power (see below) compared to rivals, but it means you can explore every last rev available without having to worry about breaking the speed limit.

Petrol

  • 1.5-litre: 130bhp, 0 to 62mph in 8.3 seconds, up to 44.8mpg
  • 2.0-litre: 158bhp, 0 to 62mph in 7.3 seconds, up to 40.4mpg
  • 2.0-litre: 181bhp, 0 to 62mph in 6.5 seconds, up to 40.4mpg

It's worth noting that the most powerful engine came slightly later on in the MX-5's life, which will reflect in the price you pay. An automatic gearbox is available but it's a rare choice because the standard 6-speed manual is such a joy to use and therefore more desirable.

Practicality and Running Costs

With only two seats and a 130-litre boot, it's safe to say the MX-5 isn't the epitome of practicality. But then, you're buying one for the driving experience.

Although, one benefit of the MX-5 is that it can be used for everyday driving or commuting because the sound suppression from outside is excellent. You can choose between a regular soft top convertible or a metal folding roof (branded as 'RF'). You'll pay more for the latter but it's quieter with the roof up.

The MX-5 occupies insurance groups in the late 20s and early 30s (50 is the highest), which will reflect in your premiums. However, annual road tax is affordable and consumables such as tyres are inexpensive.

In addition, affordable servicing is readily available through all Evans Halshaw retailers.

Mazda MX-5 cabin

Interior, Technology, and Safety

Mazda MX-5 steering wheel

Because it borrows an interior from the excellent Mazda3, the MX-5's cabin is an enjoyable place to spend time. The rev gauge stands proudest within the instrument cluster, whilst the majority of controls fall easily to hand, reinforcing the MX-5's remit as a driver focused car.

A 7.0-inch infotainment screen features as standard on the MX-5, and is controlled using a nifty rotary controller. It's a relatively slick system that comes with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay in models made from 2020 onwards.

Heated seats, climate control and cruise control feature on all models. Head up the range and you'll start to benefit from luxuries such as a Bose sound system, sports suspension, a reversing camera and adaptive LED headlamps.

The MX-5 received four stars during its Euro NCAP safety test, scoring high marks for adult and child occupant protection. It's available with the following safety features:

  • Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
  • Electronic stability control (ESC)
  • Lane departure warning
  • Blind spot monitoring

Is the Mazda MX-5 right for me?

The MX-5 is arguably the definition of an affordable sports car. It may not offer the same levels of performance as higher-end alternatives, nor the practicality of similarly driver focused cars, but you simply cannot get behind the wheel of a sublime rear-wheel drive roadster for less.

Rivals are few and far between in reality. The Fiat 124 Spider is very similar to the MX-5, although that's because it's the same car underneath. A BMW Z4 offers a more premium driving experience, so is worth looking at if you have the budget. A left-field choice is the Toyota GT86; whilst it's not a roadster, it's built with driving engagement in mind.

Why purchase a used Mazda MX-5 through Evans Halshaw?

Find your ideal used car with Evans Halshaw

At Evans Halshaw, we have a variety of used cars for you to choose from. Each car is carefully selected by our teams before making its way through the rigorous preparation process, where it's inspected by a qualified technician and then fully valeted.

All our vehicles are fully HPI checked, giving you peace of mind when making a decision. In addition, we're able to offer Home Delivery to UK mainland addresses, giving you flexibility when searching for your next car.

We're also able to offer you a tailored Service Plan for your selected car, which allows you to spread the cost of maintenance over an agreed period of time, whilst saving you money in the process.

If you'd like some advice on picking the right car for you, or you've spotted a vehicle and want more information, please contact your nearest Evans Halshaw dealership, where one of our friendly associates will be more than happy to help.