Used Mazda MX-5 for sale

What types of used Mazda MX-5 cars are there?

Despite its huge popularity, the Mazda MX-5 is one of the most affordable convertible models money can buy.

All variants are convertibles, but you can pick from a simple, manual soft-top or a slightly more premium-feeling hard-top with an electrically retractable roof.

Power comes from some modestly powered engines – 1.5 and 2.0 litres in the latest models. And while they’re not the most powerful, they pack a punch thanks to the MX-5 not weighing much more than a tonne.

The power is really usable, too. In a Porsche 911 you’ll need to be careful to avoid a speeding ticket, but a used Mazda MX-5 is engaging and fun even at safe speeds.

Popular Mazda MX-5 trims

Over the years, Mazda has used different trim levels to distinguish its cheaper models from those with more equipment, but all come with the essentials and a seriously sporty style.

> Mazda MX-5 Prime-Line - even the cheapest variant gets an 8.8-inch infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

> Mazda MX-5 Exclusive-Line - this worthwhile upgrade adds keyless entry and a powerful Bose sound system with speakers in the seat headrests for those warm summer evenings

> Mazda MX-5 Homura - top-spec edition with adaptive LED headlights, a reversing camera, sports suspension, a limited-slip differential and Brembo brakes up front

Mazda MX-5 history

The MX-5 has been on our roads since the very late 80s, and the four generations that have followed have all been truly iconic.

> Fourth-generation Mazda MX-5 ‘ND’ (2015) - this sharp and angular roadster was the first MX-5 to introduce a hard-top RF model

> Updated Mazda MX-5 ‘ND’ (2018) - Mazda made some changes to the engines and interior for this model

> Updated Mazda MX-5 ‘ND’ (2021) - improvements to agility and handling were rolled out for driving enthusiasts

> Facelifted Mazda MX-5 ‘ND’ (2024) - exterior styling enhancements, new trim level names and handling enhancements

What features does the Mazda MX-5 have?

The fourth-generation Mazda MX-5 is one of the longest-living cars around. Most manufacturers tend to renew their cars after around seven years, but this model has been in production for around a decade.

This means standard kit varies widely by model year. As a guide, facelifted 2024 cars come as standard with climate control, push-button start, cruise control and an 8.8-inch display with smartphone connectivity.

The usual modern array of safety features are all present, too, like a driver attention monitoring system, lane-keep assist and traffic sign recognition, as well as staples like cruise control.

Besides tech upgrade like adaptive LED headlights and a Bose sound system, higher-spec cars also have mechanical improvements.

You get things like red brake calipers – Brembo at the front, an asymmetric limited-slip diff and sports suspension with Bilstein dampers. They all make for a more involving drive, if that’s your style.

Is the Mazda MX-5 reliable?

Put aside what you think about sports cars, because a used Mazda MX-5 for sale should be very reliable.

Mazda already has a reputation for building long-lasting, durable cars, and the MX-5’s reliative simplicity compared with more expensive sports cars bodes well.

How much does the Mazda MX-5 cost to run?

The same is true of fuel efficiency – the Mazda MX-5 is lighter than most small hatchbacks and superminis, so it has the potential to sip fuel very lightly under normal circumstances.

Mazda reckons around 45mpg for the 132hp 1.5-litre petrol engine, and 40mpg for the 184hp 2.0-litre engine.

It sits in insurance groups 25-33, which is reasonable given this car’s performance. It should be cheaper to insure than many hot hatches.

Who is the Mazda MX-5 suitable for?

A used Mazda MX-5 for sale is an excellent pick for anyone who enjoys driving, and the wind-in-your-hair thrills of a convertible.

Its simplicity and affordability make it a great budget-friendly option, but people still know you’re driving a sports car when they see you go by.

If you like the idea of a compact roadster, why not consider other models like the Audi TT or BMW Z4. Those with deeper pockets could consider a Porsche Boxster, too.