Mazda MX-5 Convertible review

In a world where hot hatches and even two-tonne SUVs can hit 0-62mph in less than four seconds, the Mazda MX-5 Convertible is a breath of fresh air. You see, rather than chasing outright speed, it focuses on plastering a big silly grin on your face regardless of velocity.

Of course, this isn’t a new recipe; the original MX-5 was launched back in 1989 and the current car is the fourth generation of Mazda’s affordable roadster. While you can get drop-tops such as the Mini Convertible, Fiat 500C and DS 3 Cabrio for similar money (if not less), we’d argue that the Fiat 124 Spider (which is based on the MX-5) is its only true rival.

Watch the next video

Buyers get a choice between 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre engines, both of which offer enough poke to have fun without fearing for your licence. Neither is a powerhouse, but that’s no issue considering the MX-5 weighs about the same as a city car.

If we’ve piqued your interest, carry on reading over the next few pages to get the complete rundown of what’s good, and not so good, about owning an MX-5. And if you decide that it’s the sports car for you, head over to our New Car Buying page, where you could get yourself a tidy saving on the list price.