Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe 2.0i Sport

Jan 2 2009 Bill McCarthy

THERE are few better tributes to the quality and popularity of a car than people still clamouring to buy models that are more than 10 years old.

A pal recently purchased a soft top Mazda MX-5, circa 2007, and is delighted with it.

It is not really surprising. Although the MX5 has moved on substantially in 10 years, it is to many, still the epitome of affordable, open top, two-seater motoring.

Many have competed with and copied the Japanese favourite but few have matched the popularity of the evergreen roadster.

The latest hardtop version is a revelation. The metal roof folds away in just over 12 seconds into an area that barely compromises boot space.

You can then enjoy the benefits of open top motoring in one of the finest examples around.

The latest shape is not everyone's cup of tea. It has a more squat and muscular look and flared haunches, but it certainly attracts attention, particularly with the top down.

Both front seats offer plenty of support and legroom and headroom is also good for taller drivers and passengers.

The 160bhp two-litre engine should have plenty of urge, but has to be worked hard to get anywhere near the 0-62mph acceleration time of 7.9 seconds, however the slick six-speed gearbox makes sure power is transferred smoothly.

Despite having a part-time roof, the MX-5 feels solid and stable, even when cornering, a time when some convertible bodies start flexing.

Handling is sharp and precise and the car stays well planted through twisting lanes and sharp curves, with a nice feedback from the steering.

With the roof in place the two occupants are well insulated from wind and road noise and the environment feels solid and well-built.

There are cars that offer more extras for your money, but the Mazda is hardly Spartan, with electric windows and door mirrors and climate control as standard.

The neat black dashboard is both functional and logical while everything feels well-screwed together, typically Mazda really, while the real piece de resistance, admittedly at quite a few quid extra, was the ear-splitting BOSE sound system.

So loud it even drowned out the juggernauts on the motorway.

Storage space as you would expect in a convertible is limited, but two small overnight bags fit comfortably into the 150 litre boot and there is space behind the seats as well as a number of pockets and cupholders.

Still a reasonably-priced car, the MX-5 is also something of an investment with excellent residual values, as my pal would testify.

Safety is well covered front and side airbags and ABS and stability control keeps the car on the straight and narrow.

Fuel economy is reasonable at around 35mpg for the combined cycle while CO2 emissions are highish at 193g/km.

New shapes will come and go, but the Mazda remains evergreen to open-top enthusiasts.

FAST FACTS

Mazda MX-5 Roadster Coupe 2.0i Sport

Price : £20,657

Mechanical : 160bhp, 1,999cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving rear wheels via 6spd gearbox

Max speed : 131mph

0-62mph : 7.9 secs

Insurance group : 13

CO2 emissions : 193g/km

BiK rating : 25%

Warranty : 3yrs/ 60,000 miles, 3yrs paint, 12yrs anti-rust