1989 Mazda Eunos Roadster MX-5

Highlights

• Japanese import, now registered on UK plates
• In current ownership for approximately six years
• Extensive mechanical overhaul carried out during current ownership
• Strip-down and respray undertaken
• MOT valid until November 2026

The Appeal

The MX-5 was known as the Eunos in Japan; and just as over here, it had a monumental impact. The obsession with what had been the Great British sports car was still alive and well, and with its lightweight, compact chassis and 'friendly' styling, the Eunos felt like a bit of a rebirth, if not a direct continuation of the formula.

This example was imported from Japan and is now fully registered on UK plates. During the current owner's six-year stewardship, the car has benefited from a thorough mechanical overhaul and a full strip-down and respray. The vendor proudly reports that the car drives very well and presents smartly, though prospective buyers should note that the hard top requires some repair and the soft top will need replacing.

Key Information

• Mileage: 157,454 km (no documentation available to verify)
• Country of registration: UK (imported from Japan in 2002)
• Technical inspection status: MOT valid until November 2026
• Technical specs: 1,598cc inline four-cylinder petrol, five-speed manual
• Paperwork: Limited paperwork available; all restoration and service work was undertaken by the vendor's family

The Detail

• Arrived in the UK in 2002
• Purchased in June 2020 from a work colleague
• The car had been garage-stored for seven years prior to purchase
• New clutch fitted
• All brake discs and pads replaced
• All belts replaced including the water pump
• Engine oil seal replaced
• Oil, filter, coolant, and coolant pipes replaced
• New tyres fitted
• Strip-down and respray carried out
• Stored under a car cover until recently
• One penny-sized rust spot on the rear offside wing
• The vendor reports no known issues underneath, with all seals reportedly in good condition
• Hard top requires some repair
• Soft top is a little ragged and may benefit from replacement
• Interior is in good overall order, with some patina and wear
• Loose covering to the steering wheel
• All instruments and switchgear reported to be working
• Right electric window switch only works intermittently
• Fitted with a Momo steering wheel, chrome roll bar, suspension stabilising bar, and a rear fog light adapted to one of the reversing lights

BEFORE YOU BUY

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