Mazda MX-5 Mk1 review

Heroically fun, to put it simply. Settling in behind the three-spoke (and, as we’ve already mentioned, rather large) wheel you’re sat higher than in later generations, but the seats are plenty supportive and comfortable. 

Twist the key in the ignition – remember those? – and the engine turns over into life. The exhaust note is delightfully old-school, none of this synthesised noise you find on electric cars these days. You needn’t bother with Spotify in this thing – not of course, that you’ll find Apple CarPlay or Android Auto here.

Setting off, it’s noticeable how responsive the throttle is. No bad thing. And that’s immediately followed by how much of a joy the stubby-gear lever, with its short, sharp throw, combined with the fantastic five-speed gearbox, is to use.

Any difference between the 1.6 and 1.8-litre?

Not massively. While the former produced 114bhp and 100lb ft, the latter upped that to 128bhp and 110lb ft respectively, with the increase in torque most noticeable at lower revs. Great for going bonkers on B-roads, basically.

But that’s not all. It also brought with it a slight chassis upgrade, including bracing bars between the seat belts, as well as to the front and rear subframes. Small details, but they do help to improve refinement on our typically bumpy British roads.

Even so… does it feel, y’know, underpowered?

Nope. What the MX-5 lacked in power it more than made up for in how it handled, thanks to precise steering, 50:50 weight distribution and a rear-wheel drive setup. Adding more power would have meant more weight, and when it comes to the MX-5, less is more.

Aided by independent double wishbone suspension on all four wheels, it’s no secret that this generation MX-5 is at its best on some quiet, twisting country lanes. It’s hugely engaging to drive and, best of all, encourages you to have some fun.

Get it on a motorway and it’s a slightly different story, but this car wasn’t designed for that. Nope, this MX-5 is best served with the roof down, in the summer sun, when you feel like going for a drive for the sake of going for a drive. Bliss.