23 Mar 04
The current MX-5 line-up in the UK consists of an entry-level 1.6-litre model (110bhp, from £15,000) and the 146bhp 1.8, the latter coming with the option of six-speed manual transmission. For 2004, there are also a number of special edition models, including the Euphonic, with a high-spec Sony audio system, MP3-compatible CD player and six-CD autochanger (from £16,500), and all versions have received improved audio kit with six speakers, a standard wind stop, an aluminium-look centre console, standard 16-inch alloy wheels, a sun visor with vanity mirror on the driver's side and new seat fabrics. There's still no electrically folding roof option, however. This puts the MX-5 at a bit of a disadvantage against the new breed of roadsters and convertibles with retracting metal hard-tops, as well as the near-universal electric-fold mechanisms on most models with canvas hoods. Sure, it's still a lot cheaper than the more powerful Audi TT roadster (from £21,525 for the 1.8), a BMW Z4 (from £24,355 for the 2.2i) or the Mercedes-Benz SLK (£25,760 for the 200K), but there's the rather amusing 1.6-litre Ford StreetKa at £14,995, the Peugeot 206 CC from £14,920 (1.6 16v, 110bhp) and the modern-day Midget, the Smart roadster, from just £11,995 - the latter might not be as powerful, but its light weight makes it little slower off the mark. The MX-5 is priced similarly to fellow old-timer the MG TF (from £15,795) and the under-whelming Toyota MR2 (from £17,000) - but can't begin to compete in value against the admittedly LHD-only 1.8-litre, 130bhp Fiat Barchetta (£10,995 from a Fiat UK dealer, well under the £10K mark if you buy direct from Italy).
On first (re)impressions on the test drive, the MX-5 doesn't compare well to more modern opposition, either. The steering wheel's lack of height adjustors makes it difficult for taller drivers to get comfortable, the lack of seat height adjustment leaves knees banging against the steering column and even sub six-footers could get a cricked neck from peering out under the low-set sunvisors. The footwell is narrow, and with the roof in place, the cabin's pretty dark, cramped and claustrophobic. As with the MG TF, there's no doubt that this is an ageing design with behind-the-times ergonomics and cabin detailing. The boot isn't particularly generously-sized, and though the roof's easy enough to operate, we've got used to feeling fresh air at the touch of a button - and going undercover again just as quickly when the rain clouds threaten. Yet still the MX-5 proves popular...
