Alpine A110 vs. Mazda MX-5: Complete comparison 2026

The Alpine A110 represents a spectacular rebirth of the legendary French sports car, dazzling with its ultra-lightweight mid-engine construction and an uncompromising focus on absolute driving purity. Standing against it is the Mazda MX-5, also famous in some markets under the legendary name Miata or Roadster, which for decades has represented the unwavering benchmark for affordable and maximally fun sports convertibles. Dive into our detailed comparison and find out which of these two exceptional machines will best satisfy your driving desires on your favorite winding backroads.

Although both the Alpine A110 and the Mazda MX-5 share a philosophy of lightweight design and maximum driving pleasure, a look at their exterior dimensions reveals that both cars play in slightly different leagues. If we focus on models roughly four years old (the current ND generation for Mazda and the 2nd generation Alpine), the French coupe makes a significantly more muscular and mature impression next to the Japanese roadster. While Mazda stubbornly maintains its status as an ultra-compact purist sports car, Alpine offers slightly more generous proportions. This physical difference fundamentally foreshadows the different approach of both manufacturers to everyday usability and the overall perception of space.

The main yawning gap can be found in the overall length and width of both cars. The Alpine A110 measures 4181 mm in length, which is a significant 266 mm more than the Mazda MX-5, whose length stops at just 3915 mm. Furthermore, at 1798 mm, the French car is 63 mm wider. In practice, this means that thanks to its pocket dimensions, the Mazda is the absolute king when maneuvering in narrow city streets, and parking in tight spaces is a total breeze. Conversely, the greater width and length of the Alpine contribute to better directional stability at higher speeds and give the car a more confident stance. Thus, the Mazda's smaller dimensions are a clear advantage in the city, while the Alpine's wider and longer footprint brings benefits during fast and smooth driving on open roads.

Another key factor is the wheelbase. The Alpine has a wheelbase of 2420 mm, which is exactly 110 mm more than the Mazda (2310 mm). This difference is positively reflected not only in the overall composure of the car in long, sweeping corners but also provides the occupants inside with slightly more living space. In terms of height, both cars are very close – the Alpine measures around 1250 mm, while the Mazda, depending on the version (soft-top Cabriolet or the RF version with a hard folding roof - Coupe), most often ranges between 1225 and 1235 mm. Both cars thus offer an extremely low center of gravity and a seating position close to the asphalt. From the perspective of exterior dimensions, the choice is clear: if you are looking for maximum agility and minimalist dimensions, the Mazda MX-5 has no competition on the used car market. However, if you prefer a more stable car with a more balanced ratio of a more mature body, the Alpine A110 represents the better compromise.

When choosing a purebred sports car like the Alpine A110 or Mazda MX-5, luggage space is usually not the main criterion for a purchase decision. However, it plays a surprisingly important role for those who want to use their car not just for Sunday afternoon drives, but also for weekend trips for two. Although these compact two-seaters cannot be described as having everyday family utility, the ability to safely and comfortably store luggage for a few days can significantly influence how often and with what joy you travel with the car.

The French automaker took a somewhat different approach to space in the Alpine model, considering its mid-engine layout. The Alpine A110 (2nd generation) thus offers a luggage compartment divided into two smaller parts. The front trunk under the hood (the so-called frunk) provides a volume of exactly 100 liters, while the rear storage space behind the engine adds another 96 liters. In total, you have a combined 196 liters at your disposal. In contrast, the Mazda MX-5 (ND generation), with its front-engine layout, relies on a traditional one-piece trunk at the rear. This offers 130 liters in the standard soft-top version and a slightly smaller 127 liters in the RF (Coupé) variant with its more complex retractable hardtop mechanism.

In absolute numbers, the difference is 66 liters in favor of the Alpine. However, practicality is very specific for both cars, and the volume on paper doesn't tell the whole story. The divided space in the French car requires clever packing into soft bags, but it offers room for several extra bags if you arrange your things skillfully. Mazda, on the other hand, has a more modest volume on paper but offers a single, cohesive space that is easily sufficient for weekend shopping or a longer vacation for two, especially if you travel with a standard carry-on suitcase. Due to the rigid structure behind the seats in both of these sports cars, the backrests cannot be folded flat, so the maximum cargo volume equals the basic one.

In terms of total numbers and transport capabilities, the Alpine A110 wins over the Japanese icon, but the need to divide luggage into two relatively narrow and specifically shaped compartments can be limiting when packing. The Mazda MX-5 may offer several dozen liters less, but it provides one continuous space that makes it easier for many drivers to quickly throw in a weekend bag. The decision in this category, therefore, is not about how much you can pack in total, but rather whether you prefer a traditional trunk or would rather get used to a split storage system that ensures perfect weight distribution.

When comparing the trailer weight of purely sports models such as the Alpine A110 (2nd generation) and the Mazda MX-5 (the popular ND generation on the market for roughly four-year-old used cars), it is necessary to recognize their specific focus. For these light and agile vehicles, driving dynamics and weight reduction are the primary goals, meaning that the manufacturers have completely omitted the possibility of towing any additional load for both cars.

The standard and maximum weight of a braked and unbraked trailer is thus exactly 0 kg in both cases. There is a complete lack of any manufacturer homologation for the installation of a tow bar across all offered trim levels. This fact remains the same for the base Mazda MX-5 engines as well as for the more powerful or track-focused Alpine A110 specifications. No hybrid or otherwise modified variant with a different capacity exists.

From a practical standpoint, this means it is absolutely impossible to expand the very modest transport capacity of these vehicles. A solution in the form of a small trailer, which would provide much-needed space for a few extra suitcases, is simply out of the question. These cars will therefore not be sufficient for weekend shopping for bulkier items or longer holidays with a caravan. Users must rely exclusively on the minimalistic built-in trunks (approximately 190 liters divided between two trunks in the Alpine and just 130 liters in the Mazda).

When deciding between the Alpine A110 and the Mazda MX-5, towing capacity is not a decision factor at all. For both models, you must accept the fact that they are built for the pure joy of driving on twisty backroads, not as practical workhorses. Due to the complete absence of homologation for a tow bar, it was not possible to provide any real data for specific engine variants in the table below.

Both cars approach propulsion from diametrically different angles, which fundamentally defines their driving character and appeals to a completely different type of driver. The French Alpine A110 coupe bets on a mid-mounted 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which it shares with the famous Renault Mégane R.S. hot hatch. It thus offers dramatically higher power and a generous portion of torque available across a wide rev range, making it a fantastic tool for crushing acceleration and track driving. In contrast, the Mazda MX-5 remains puristically faithful to the classic front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout. Its SKYACTIV-G units require revving to the redline and reward the driver with a perfectly linear power delivery and lightning-fast throttle response. While enthusiasts can enjoy one of the best manual transmissions on the market in the Mazda, the Alpine is available exclusively with a lightning-fast dual-clutch automatic. From a used car market perspective, you have to choose between raw and extremely reliable mechanical interaction in the case of the Mazda, or a high-tech approach and aggressive dynamics with the Alpine.

Under the hood (or rather, in front of the rear axle) of the Alpine A110 generation available on the four-year-old used car market, you will find exclusively the 1.8 TCe petrol engine, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission from Getrag. Standard models (such as Pure or Légende) offer 185 kW (252 hp), which, given the aluminum construction and a curb weight of around one ton, is more than enough for a zero-to-hundred acceleration in 4.5 seconds. The older A110S version had 215 kW, however, since the end of 2021, the A110 S and the more comfortably tuned A110 GT versions were boosted to 221 kW (300 hp) and 340 Nm. This top specification was subsequently also given to the most radical track version, the A110 R. All engine variants are famous for their punchy sound and great flexibility, but you can forget about a classic manual in this model range.

The engine options for the current ND generation Mazda MX-5 on the used market (especially for cars manufactured after the 2018–2019 facelift) rely on two proven high-revving naturally aspirated SKYACTIV-G units. The base variant is a 1.5-liter four-cylinder with 97 kW (132 hp), which benefits from the roadster's extremely low weight. This engine is often chosen by more relaxed drivers focused on lower fuel consumption and playfulness in tight corners, as it feels very sharp thanks to smaller rotating masses. More demanding drivers and those interested in the RF hardtop version, however, in most cases opt for the full-fat two-liter with 135 kW (184 hp), which revs up to 7,500 rpm. Most examples feature a precise six-speed manual transmission; however, a traditional six-speed torque-converter automatic could also be ordered with the two-liter engine (mainly for the RF version). An interesting fact for those looking for a used model is that the more powerful 2.0 SKYACTIV-G 184 engine was discontinued in many markets from 2024 due to fleet emissions; models roughly four years old thus represent one of the best ways to still acquire this excellent engine in near-new condition.

Choosing the right engine is absolutely crucial for long-term satisfaction with these sports cars, as both cars represent completely different engineering approaches. While Mazda relies on the classic concept of a purist roadster with a front-mounted naturally aspirated engine and rear-wheel drive, Alpine offers a modern turbocharged unit positioned in the middle for perfect weight distribution. Interestingly, Alpine shares its aluminum four-cylinder with the Renault Mégane R.S. hot hatch, while Mazda developed a completely unique high-revving engine with an unusually high compression ratio for the MX-5. Our following recommendations for roughly four-year-old used cars are based on real-world dynamics, fuel consumption, and verifiable mechanical reliability from the perspective of experienced mechanics.

For the Alpine A110, we recommend: 1.8 TCe (185 kW / 252 hp)

Although the market also offers more powerful S and GT variants (with up to 300 hp), for a four-year-old used car, the base engine with 252 hp (found, for example, in the Pure trim or the standard model) is the most well-balanced choice.

• Why it's the best: 252 hp is absolutely ideal for the car's flyweight (around 1100 kg). Unlike the stiffer and more expensive versions, this engine, combined with the standard chassis, offers perfect harmony between daily usability and weekend fun.
• Technical advantages: The engine stands out with a beautifully flat torque curve (320 Nm available from as low as 2000 rpm) and immediate responses thanks to excellent pairing with the seven-speed Getrag dual-clutch transmission. Real-world fuel consumption remains surprisingly low during normal smooth driving, often around 7 l/100 km.
• Risks and solutions: Since it is a direct-injection unit, frequent short trips or a defensive driving style pose a risk of carbon buildup on the intake valves. Due to the mid-engine layout in a small and poorly ventilated space, the unit is under more thermal stress – it is therefore absolutely critical to shorten the oil change interval to a maximum of 10,000 km or one year.
• Who it's for: This engine is perfect for enthusiastic drivers looking for a compliant, playful, and predictable car for backroads, but who also want to travel longer distances comfortably and without unnecessary jarring.

For the Mazda MX-5, we recommend: 2.0 SKYACTIV-G 184 (135 kW / 184 hp)

For the ND generation after the facelift (the so-called ND2 version, available roughly from late 2018 onwards), the more powerful two-liter is the clear favorite. Given that this engine was completely removed from the European new car lineup during 2024, roughly four-year-old used cars with this heart are becoming highly sought-after and valued commodities.

• Why it's the best: While the smaller 1.5-liter (132 hp) is indeed high-revving and joyful, the two-liter brings a significant advantage in the form of a much stronger mid-range. Additionally, this version is traditionally paired with a limited-slip differential (LSD) and, in higher trims (e.g., Sports-Line or Homura), with excellent Bilstein dampers.
• Technical advantages: This naturally aspirated engine is a masterpiece – it loves revs (the limiter kicks in at 7500 rpm) and offers a smooth, linear power delivery complemented by 205 Nm of torque. It excels in mechanical throttle response and very favorable fuel consumption, oscillating between 6.5 and 7.5 l/100 km.
• Risks and solutions: Skyactiv-G units are among the most reliable on the market, but due to the extremely high compression ratio, they are more sensitive to fuel quality – we recommend using high-quality additivated or 100-octane gasoline. During a test drive of a used car, focus on the smoothness of the manual transmission when cold; if the second gear is stiff to engage, changing to high-quality transmission oil usually helps.
• Who it's for: It is the ideal choice for dynamically oriented drivers, fans of occasional track days, and those who often head into hilly terrain where they will appreciate the power reserve and pull from lower revs.

While official fuel consumption figures based on laboratory tests and standards often promise miracles of efficiency, the daily reality of driving is usually a bit different. Especially with sports cars, where their very character tempts you to step on the gas, the liters add up quickly. However, if we look at real-world data from users on independent platforms like the European portal Spritmonitor.de, we find that lightweight construction can work wonders, and the differences compared to official figures are not that vast. For comparison, we have intentionally selected engine versions of both generations around four years old, which are currently on the radar of most buyers looking for a well-maintained used car.

The measured data clearly highlights the huge advantage of both lightweight concepts. Although neither manufacturer logically offers heavy diesel engines for these agile sports cars, the petrol four-cylinders prove with their figures that diesel would make no economic sense here. Mazda's naturally aspirated engines deliver on their promised efficiency completely – the smaller 1.5-liter even represents the absolute benchmark for economical sports driving with a real average of 6.3 l/100 km. The larger Japanese 2.0-liter may ask for nearly a liter more, but its dynamic potential and meatier torque are definitely worth it.

Perhaps an even bigger, and it must be added, very pleasant surprise, is the result of the turbocharged 1.8 TCe unit hidden in the middle of the Alpine A110. Although the engine is turbocharged and sends a massive 252 hp to the rear wheels (even up to 300 hp in the S and GT versions), the long-term average consumption in normal traffic stays around a pleasant seven and a half liters. In practice, this confirms that strict weight reduction (which in the Alpine is slightly over 1100 kg) works much better at curbing appetite than relying on a small turbo to automatically save fuel even in a two-ton car.

What does this mean for the average driver or used car buyer?

• If you use your car as a "daily driver" and enjoy navigating the city and your daily commute, the weaker naturally aspirated Mazda is a safe bet that won't dramatically impact your monthly budget.
• The larger 2.0 Skyactiv-G represents the ideal middle ground for those who want higher performance for occasional travel but still want to care about consumption only marginally.
• In contrast, most enthusiasts buy the Alpine A110 as a purebred weekend weapon for Alpine passes or tracks, where consumption will quickly climb. However, on smooth, long highway journeys to your fun destination, it certainly won't ruin you.

In conclusion, a clear summary can be drawn: fuel consumption should not play the main role in your final decision in this specific comparison. From a purely mathematical standpoint, the Mazda MX-5 naturally emerges as the more economical winner, but the characters of these cars are so different that the purchase price and preference for specific technology (naturally aspirated with a manual vs. turbo with a lightning-fast dual-clutch automatic) will play the primary role. In any case, both carmakers provide enthusiasts with great proof that you don't need to consume fuel by the hectoliter to have a huge amount of driving fun.

Purchasing a roughly four-year-old sports car (i.e., model years around 2021–2022) represents an ideal compromise between the significant depreciation of a new car and a still excellent, often nearly new technical condition. In the case of the Alpine A110 and Mazda MX-5 (ND generation), however, we are moving in completely different financial and market spheres in used car dealerships and advertisements. While the Mazda is the benchmark for affordable sports driving for the masses, the Alpine targets a narrow group of purists with a much more generous budget and exclusive taste.

Alpine A110 (2017–present)

The modern reincarnation of the legendary French mid-engine coupe holds its value phenomenally well on the used car market. Due to its exclusivity, lower production numbers, and exceptional all-aluminum construction, its price drops only very slowly.

• Base versions (Pure / Légende): For four-year-old examples with lower mileage (often imported from Germany or France), expect prices starting roughly at €53,000 to €62,000.
• Higher-performance versions (S, GT): Variants focused on track sharpness with lowered suspension, or the more luxurious and powerful GT models, comfortably hold between €66,000 and €86,000.
• Extreme models (such as the lightweight R version with carbon parts) commonly sell on the used market for amounts exceeding €103,000.

Mazda MX-5 ND (2015–present)

The world's best-selling roadster is the exact opposite from a market perspective – thanks to mass global production, there is a huge selection among used cars and prices are incomparably more friendly. Even so, the Mazda holds its value better than most common family hatchbacks.

• 1.5 Skyactiv-G engine: Base models around four years old in good condition and with standard equipment can be purchased today in the range of €21,000 to €25,000. These models are great for twisty backroads and excel in low operating costs.
• 2.0 Skyactiv-G engine: The much more sought-after more powerful two-liter, which features a mechanical limited-slip differential and stronger brakes as standard (often in Revolution or Homura trim). There is also significant interest in the RF (Retractable Fastback) body style with a hard folding roof. Price-wise, these four-year-old cars range from €27,000 to €35,000.

Overview of approximate used car prices (approx. 4 years old)

Although in an ideal case we would start a used car comparison by stating that both cars received five-star Euro NCAP ratings, in the category of purist sports cars, it is much more important to perceive the broader context and the year of the testing itself. The testing protocols of the independent Euro NCAP organization are constantly evolving and becoming significantly stricter over time. In practice, this means that percentage scores from different years cannot be directly compared. Today's strict methodology requires sophisticated features, such as advanced cyclist detection or solutions for dangerous scenarios at intersections, which were not assessed at all in older models.

The current generation Mazda MX-5 (ND) underwent crash tests in 2015. According to the standards of the time, it earned a very solid four stars, missing the fifth solely due to the absence of an autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system, which was not common in this class back then. Conversely, the situation with the Alpine A110 is specific. Given that it is an exclusive lightweight sports car with very low sales volume, Euro NCAP has never independently tested this model. For this reason, any official percentage data is missing for comparison and is not listed in the table.

Clear conclusions can be drawn from these results and the overall approach of the manufacturers. The Mazda MX-5 demonstrated an excellent level of structural passive safety for its time. It recorded an extraordinary result in the protection of vulnerable road users (93%), thanks to the standard active pop-up hood that protects pedestrians' heads. Although the validity of this 2015 certificate recently expired according to strict Euro NCAP rules, the mechanical essence of the protection remains intact when purchasing a roughly four-year-old used car.

The French Alpine A110 may not have undergone destruction in laboratories, but it relies on advanced engineering, a modern and exceptionally rigid aluminum construction, and above all, extreme agility. In the spirit of the lightweight sports car philosophy, top-tier brakes and immediate chassis reactions represent your best tool for preventing a crisis situation altogether. Neither car possesses the full suite of modern assistants known from family hatchbacks.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a safer feeling backed by data, the Mazda MX-5 offers a demonstrably more comprehensive and modern safety foundation based on official test results and the integration of features like the active hood. With the Alpine, you must trust the manufacturer's reputation and your own driving skills.

In addition to standard equipment, each of these exceptional models offers something extra and approaches the driving experience in its own way, resulting in unique features that can be absolutely crucial for the customer during the final decision-making process.

Alpine A110: Uncompromising obsession with lightness and motorsport

• Construction and materials: The foundation of the A110's identity is its all-aluminum body and chassis. The emphasis on absolute weight savings (the car weighs around 1,100 kg) is reflected not only in fantastic driving dynamics and handling but also in surprisingly low fuel consumption during daily use.
• Sporty interior details: In the cabin, you'll find Sabelt bucket seats that weigh just 13.1 kg and offer uncompromising lateral support. The purist approach is also evident in the unique approach to storage spaces – for example, you won't find a traditional glove box here, in order to save precious grams.
• Telemetry and infotainment: The Alpine Telemetrics system allows the driver to monitor advanced technical data in real-time. You can view turbocharger boost pressure, engine and gearbox oil temperatures, torque, steering angle, or use the integrated lap timer for the racetrack.
• Innovative brakes and chassis: Alpine uses a specially developed braking system from Brembo. A world first was the integration of the parking brake mechanism directly into the main rear brake caliper, which saved the car an additional 2.5 kg.
• Powertrain: The mid-engine layout just behind the seats guarantees perfect weight distribution. It is paired exclusively with a seven-speed EDC dual-clutch transmission, which offers lightning-fast shifts via paddles behind the steering wheel, giving the car the character of a full-fledged supercar in a compact package.

Mazda MX-5: Jinba Ittai philosophy and everyday open-top joy

• Body concept: Customers can choose between the classic canvas roof (Soft Top), famous for being ingeniously simple to lower and raise with one hand in a few seconds directly from the seat, and the RF (Retractable Fastback) version with an electrically folding hardtop. The latter offers a distinctive targa style and better acoustic comfort for year-round use.
• Audio system for wind-in-the-hair driving: The premium Bose audio system is designed specifically for convertibles. Tweeters are integrated directly into the seat headrests, ensuring clear music listening and hands-free call clarity regardless of whether the roof is up or down.
• Transmission and driver connection: Mazda offers one of the best manual transmissions on the market. Extremely short, stiff, and incredibly precise gear lever throws are the essence of the legendary Jinba Ittai philosophy (rider and horse as one body).
• Intelligent chassis stabilization: Newer models feature the subtle but effective KPC (Kinematic Posture Control) technology. This system gently brakes the inner rear wheel during faster cornering. The result is suppressed body roll and better "bite" into the asphalt, all without the need to install heavy adaptive dampers.
• Ergonomics and everyday connectivity: The Mazda Connect multimedia system doesn't rely solely on touch. In the center console, you'll find a physical rotary controller (inspired by premium cars) that ensures safe and intuitive control of the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto interfaces even while driving on winding backroads.

The Alpine A110 is an uncompromising choice for true automotive enthusiasts looking for precise handling, low weight, and the exclusivity of a mid-engine layout. Despite the higher price and compromises in daily practicality, it offers one of the purest driving experiences on the market, brilliantly combining sporting sharpness with unexpected touring comfort.

The Mazda MX-5 represents the ideal entry ticket into the world of classic rear-wheel-drive sports cars and serves as the benchmark for the purist roadster. It is perfect for drivers who want to enjoy the maximum analogue connection with the machine and the wind in their hair, while appreciating low maintenance costs and trouble-free daily ownership.

Based on long-term user experience, service reports, reliability statistics, and the results of a comprehensive car audit, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems that used car buyers should watch out for.

The Alpine A110 is a purist sports car with a lightweight construction that is mechanically quite robust, but faces minor compromises associated with low-volume production.

• Electronics and infotainment: The multimedia system feels outdated and is one of the most common sources of complaints. Customers often report screen freezing, slow responses, and problems with stable Apple CarPlay or Android Auto connectivity.
• Engine and fuel system: The turbocharged 1.8-liter (originally from the Renault Mégane RS) is reliable, but in early production years, there was a recall due to a problematic fuel pump. For cars frequently used on track days, it is absolutely necessary to shorten oil change intervals.
• Transmission: The seven-speed dual-clutch Getrag gearbox can jerk slightly when driving slowly in the city or in traffic jams. Under extreme load on the track, overheating has occurred in some units, so regular transmission oil changes and cooling checks are key.
• Body and interior: The lightweight all-aluminum construction means excellent driving characteristics, but also that creaking or rattling of plastic parts is often heard in the interior with its stiff chassis. Any repairs to the aluminum body after an accident are extremely expensive and require specialized service.

The Mazda MX-5 ND generation is globally one of the most reliable sports cars on the market, yet it also has its known weak points to focus on when choosing.

• Transmission: In early manual transmission models (ND1 until 2018), there were problems with 2nd and 3rd gear synchros, and exceptionally even gear cracking (the so-called "glass gearbox"). In newer cars (ND2 from 2019 onwards), which dominate the four-year-old used car market, this problem has been solved with a reinforced design. Occasional stiffness of shifting when cold is a natural characteristic.
• Body and paint: Japanese paints are eco-friendly and very thin. Given the car's low profile, this means high susceptibility of the front bumper and hood to stone chips. Corrosion is significantly suppressed compared to previous generations, but if you plan to drive the car in winter, an additional anti-corrosion underbody coating is highly recommended.
• Roof and interior: In cars with a soft top, local wear of the canvas can occur in places where it meets internal plastics or roll bars when folded. For the MZD Connect infotainment, older versions occasionally experience the "ghost touch" problem (unintended screen clicks) caused by delamination of the touchscreen layers.
• Engine: Skyactiv-G engines (1.5 and 2.0 liters) are mechanically bulletproof and very durable without a turbo. They require nothing more than timely annual service, quality oil, and careful warming up when cold.

When buying a used sports car, a thorough inspection is key because these cars are expected to be used at the limit of their capabilities, and both mentioned cars have their specifics to watch out for. A careful independent technical inspection of the car can save you many future worries and unexpected expenses.

When choosing an Alpine A110:

• Behavior of the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (EDC): During the test drive, focus on the smoothness of starts during slow crawling and sharp shifting under throttle. Any jerking, slipping, or metallic noises may indicate excessively worn clutches or the need for software recalibration, which tends to be a costly matter.
• Condition of the aluminum chassis and control arms: Alpine uses a very specific and lightweight aluminum suspension. Try taking the car on a road with bumps; dull thuds or knocking from the front axle often indicate worn ball joints or damaged bushings. Since the parts are specific to this model, their replacement is not the cheapest.
• Infotainment response and software: The system in older model years can be prone to freezing or very slow reactions. Check if the screen responds correctly and quickly to touch and if all onboard telemetry functions work without issues. Sometimes a software update helps, in worse cases, it's a hardware defect.
• Engine hesitations and fuel system: Under full acceleration, the 1.8-liter turbo engine must not hesitate or misfire. Ask about the car's service history; some earlier models suffered from fuel pump failures, which were addressed under warranty, but on cars imported from abroad, this might have been forgotten.
• Brake condition and grooves on discs: Brembo brakes should work perfectly, although high-performance pads may occasionally squeal. Inspect the surface of the discs – if there are deep grooves or they are purple-colored, the car was likely used frequently on the track and the brakes will soon cost you money for replacement.

When choosing a Mazda MX-5:

• Smoothness of the manual transmission: For a Mazda with a manual, focus on shifting from first to second and second to third gear. The gear lever must move in the gate absolutely precisely, cleanly, and lightly. Grinding or even popping out of gear (especially when cold) indicates worn synchros, which is a known weakness in heavily stressed units.
• Condition of the soft-top or mechanism (RF): For a classic soft-top, raise and lower it several times. Watch for worn spots or holes on the inside of the canvas where the roof touches the roll bars. In the case of the RF version, listen for any squeaking sounds from the electric motors during opening.
• Beginning corrosion on the chassis: Even though these are cars approximately four years old, MX-5 models are traditionally prone to poorer anti-corrosion protection of chassis parts and control arms. A detailed physical inspection of the car on a lift is absolutely necessary to detect any rust on structural parts and arms in time.
• “Ghost Touch” display issue: Test the MZD Connect onboard system by letting it run for a while. Displays often suffer from a defect where the system reacts to fictitious touches on its own (switches the radio, jumps in the menu), especially in heat or direct sunlight. Replacing the display out of warranty is unexpectedly expensive.
• Engine noise during a cold start: Start the car completely cold. Skyactiv-G engines are normally reliable and have a specific rougher sound, but there should be no significant metallic clicking that doesn't disappear even after several minutes. This behavior is an indicator of delayed oil changes (strictly recommended after max. 10 to 15 thousand km).

Sources: ADAC, lidovky.cz, mdcr.cz, autojournal.cz, dopravniinfo.cz, carfans.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.