Mazda MX-5 Mark 3 (Miata NC) Buyers Guide

[@jiribuchtela]

This is by far the best review of NC I have seen. No stupid music, no crazy driving just chat about the car.

[@RichardBuckMovies]

Thanks! 🤙

[@areyoufeelgood6743]

describing a 30 mpg vehicle as "not fuel efficient" is definitely a major difference between US and UK car enthusiasts lol

[@dielaughing73]

Worth noting that US MPG and UK MPG are different units. To convert, multiply the UK figure by ⅚ (which would give 24 in this case)

[@Ifitwerks]

@@dielaughing73 Don't get some of these MPGs I have a 2102 soft top 5 speed and a 2012 PRHT 6 speed both 2.0 LSD DSC and both under 8K miles on normal driving mixed town and country I get 40 to 45 best with the soft top 1mpg better overall I prefer the 5 speed box over the 6 speed, and the soft top is no more noticeable for noise than the hard top in actual use, The hard top does not feel as nimble or accelerate as quick as the soft top. the hard top is more of a sports cruiser whereas the soft top is the better sports car. Also the soft top seems to absorb the bumps better (more compliant) but does not have the bilstein suspension the hard top has As I have both I notice the difference between them, It really surprised me as I did not think I would find much between them, Each has its own character but both are great I got both for the same price as a new ND and was the best decision I ever made. 2009 onwards they had all the improvements over the NC1 mainly to engine and suspension, the engine mods cured the oil problem and got stronger rods crank and pistons best go for the NC2 2009 onwards.

[@jubjub1286]

@@dielaughing73how are they different? do they use different miles or different gallons?

[@dielaughing73]

@@jubjub1286 Good point. A mile is the same but a UK gallon is different from a US gallon

[@kopfschuss881]

I hear 30 and think wow hybrid numbers. Considering my 5.7 ram... lol. My NB gets 20 pretty much no matter what

[@yannis8587]

I think this is one of the best reviews I have seen on NC. They all say how great it is and here feels a bit more balanced review with useful tips (regarding the lack of tech, cleaning the blocked drains etc). As an owner of NC 2010, I always drive it with traction control as without it just does not feel quite as great/safe grip (tbh even when activated in slippery roads in the UK does require some attention). What I think the review is right spot on is that this is a car that wants to be driven etc. If you don't, I find it a super dull car for say daily use/commute, noisy cabin, lack of tech etc. I drive it mostly in the city and as such I definitely feel/think sometimes I should probably have something else but the car is fun to have (for those rare 20% of the times only I guess). One last thing, as a city car fuel mpg is far worse than the 28-30 like mentioned (the trip computer shows only 21-22), the previous' owners trip history was more like 27-28 but he lived in the countryside.

[@RichardBuckMovies]

Thanks Yannis! Great to hear your feedback, and to hear from someone else who actually leaves the traction control on! 😂 Dang that city mileage is killer! 💸😳 All the best! 🤙

[@FJB8646]

I hear you on the traction control. I leave mine on too. As far as mileage I have achieved 33 miles per gallon on highway but usually stays right at 22-26mpg in city.

[@OOICU812]

@@FJB8646 I get a consistent 25/30 mpg. I'm not a hard driver.

[@paulbfields8284]

This is the perfect sports car when you can’t get to a track.. I’d rather drive a slow car fast than (like this) a fast car slow.. I have an 08 NC PRHT with Goodwin full Catted header exhaust, Dynotronics map, front and rear sways… and I love it 62k miles so far. Fuel pump is the only thing I needed to replace so far. I got it with 30k on it and I’ve swapped out every fluid.. it’s a joy to drive slow or fast.

[@christiansiepmann1896]

I can underline every statement in this video. Selling my NC1 in 2020 was a big mistake. My NBFL has far more problems with rust. Very good review made in a great minimalistic way. Thanks a lot.

[@ostapsulyk]

My God its an awesome video! Straight to the point, no stupid intros no anything just AWESOME thank you so much! You just made my day not only by giving a looot of great advices but also by this little detail with no bs content. I great, thank you again!

[@RichardBuckMovies]

Thanks very much! 🤙

[@djidroneadventures4059]

Some great info there . My son just bought a 2008 hard top version last week and he loves it

[@andreasarbor2300]

This video is amazing. Its all it needs to be

[@hughbrackenbury8040]

Ive had a few convertibles over 20 odd years, when they get condensation in the roof, Ive always treated the roof with Autoglym soft top cleaner and preserver. Thats always fixed it. Need to do it every year.

[@citabriaable]

Mr. Buck....I concur wholeheartedly. My 08 Grand Touring MX-5 NC is the coolest roadster I've ever owned, and I've had a few. The camel-colored leather is very supportive and comfortable even on long trips, 169 hp matched to the 6-speed transmission is a short-throw (but tightly geared shift pattern) delight to row as you wind along, sink & rise on mountain roads. The weight of this car is minimal and power/weight ratio allows plenty of acceleration, but, and this seems odd, if your mood is slow & go, shift into 4th, turn on the cruise and you can stay at that exact speed with no lugging, in fact smooth as glass, sticking right at the speed you set...it's a "torque" thing. The handling on the MX-5 is not too far from incredible, 5th gear thru those 35 mph curves at 55-60 mph with the flickability of a motorcycle, in fact, being a motorcycle rider all my life, from 17-18 to 71 currently ) I bought my MX-5 with bike thrills on 4-wheels, and so far I couldn't be happier.

[@RichardBuckMovies]

It's an incredible machine - great to hear your thoughts! 😎 Camel-coloured leather...NICE! 🤙

[@markjohnson5276]

After six years my Miata still looks new. No repair costs. Just standard maintenance. No rust. I keep it out of the weather when not in use and clean it regular. The water pump and alternator drive belt still looks new at 61k miles. I keep a spare in the trunk along with the wrench to replace it just in case.

[@petervandermeulen6641]

Dsc off gives a lot more performance on sunny days. Its so much fun to drive, really makes you learn how to play with balance, brakes and proper cornering. I want the bbr upgrade.

[@mattmarcus5808]

This is my exact car down to the color (colour). Never any rust issues. Could use a paint job though. Best daily sports car ever.

[@joedoe1268]

One of the best east going plain English cheerful reviews in my 45 years I have been into cars. Hoping to get one for sure next summer. Thanks for the video. I hope to see links or other video on upkeep and supplies for Miata ❤

[@slackdaddy1912]

I’ll love my Factory New 2014 MX-5 NC. It’s like flying a Silver and Black Zero, with no armor, power retractable top, it’s a little beast. Lots-O-Fun!

[@nic5889]

I have the same exact one! Silver 2008 GT soft top. I stand by to everything you said. I really enjoyed your review! I didn't think i was going to get an NC but im sooooo happy i did! Also i love what you said about the having traction control. I drove during real sketchy down poor and really happy i had it.

[@RichardBuckMovies]

Thanks man! 🤙

[@ketchup5344]

Had one for three years now-best car ive ever had. Previous cars include jag xk8, toyota supra.....you get the picture-yeah THAT good!! And NOT slow-fast, if you know how to drive it, trust me 😍👍🌈

[@ShauniusK]

More videos please regarding the NC!

[@RichardBuckMovies]

I'll get the roof drain video done once it stops raining here! 😅🌧👍

[@44Angelblue]

I bought a 2008 NC 2.0 earlier this year after yet another mid-life crisis as a weekend toy. Went shopping originally for a Honda S2000, but good ones are rare and hugely overpriced - not unusual to see minters with low mileage (ie the condition i found my MX5) for over £20K. The one I found - 20,000 miles, one elderly owner who only used it in the summer and kept it in a heated garage all year round - the ones you only ever read about. It wasn't the cheapest at £8k but was far and away the best I could find. The usual advice for any older car is to buy the best you can afford. Almost always works out cheaper in the long run. Had the added bonus (for me) of the electric retractable roof too - so best of both worlds. You've made a lot of good points - and i DO like the car - however, based on my own personal experience, I'd add these: The PHRT version (with the electric roof like mine) is a great choice; increased security; absolutely watertight, and quieter with the top up too. And it DOESN'T compromise the handling or the performance (more on that shortly!) either. For me - you just HAVE to fit the Mazda/Eibach lowering springs - mine has Bilstein shocks anyway - and the springs (which I actually got the best price on from my local Mazda dealership at around £200) don't make the car look "slammed" - I'm about 30 years too old for that look - they just drop it to the height it should have been in the first place - the arch tops about an inch above the top of the tyres. Mine was like yours when I got it - you could get your whole head in the gap between the tyre and the front wheel arch. Apart from dramatically improving the looks, it also had a similar impact on the handling without ANY impact on ride comfort. No clearance or grounding issues either. I'm sure I've read somewhere they actually raised the ride height (like MG did with the rubber-bumper MGB's back in the day) to comply with US bumper height regs. Either way - the best £200 I think I've spent on a car ever. Fitting the rears was fiddly though. DO check for rust as Richard says - I had mine Krown rustproofed in Dudley as a precautionary measure as I plan to use it all year round - and they said it was the ONLY totally rust-free MX5 they'd ever seen. And they've done hundreds. Some they've had to turn away, as on inspection on the ramps, they have just gone too far underneath. Check EVERYWHERE.... It's great for country lanes and B roads but motorways are not, as you'd expect, really - it's natural hunting ground. I find longer journeys tiresome - for me it's a 100 miles max car. And finally - make sure you can live with the (lack of) power. Which is, I'm sorry to say (in my humble opinion) - barely adequate. It doesn't help that my other car - a re-mapped 435d - is pretty quick - and. yes, I read all the reviews beforehand about how you don't need power to have fun - but I've discovered that I, at least, do. With such low mileage backed by a full annual main dealer service history, mine is in rude health mechanically, but getting out-dragged by even modest saloons has really taken the edge off owning the car for me. If a 320d puts it's foot down, it will just disappear into the distance, regardless of what you do. I can't even begin to imagine what the 1.8 would be like... So - after much soul-searching and deliberation - it's a very big deep breath, another bank loan and it's down to Brodie Brittain for me in the New Year for their stage 2 turbo conversion. On the face of it, it doesn't make sense to spend as much (actually slightly more) on the car than I paid for it - but with either 250bhp (Stage 1) or 300bhp (Stage 2) - it should then become the car it always could have been. And STILL for less than a half-decent S2000. Combined with bomb-proof mechanical reliability for which BBR are famous (yet to have one fail I'm assured) I've seen genuine BBR cars on sale several times now the same age and higher mileage than mine for well over £15k (there's a red one on ebay right now for £17,995) so it's hopefully not money down the tubes. And even for a total of £15k (ish!) that's less (a LOT less) than an equivalent condition S2000 which it should leave for dead as a bonus. Oh! One last thing! If you have any mates like mine - be prepared for the barrage of gay jibes.. I had pictures of rainbows, fairies, ballet shoes, hair-dressers salons - you name it - sent to me after word got out. For a long time. If you care - or don't have thick skin - grow some! :)

[@RichardBuckMovies]

Wow sounds like you got a one in a million car! The S2000 is soooo expensive, and I hear it's harder to live with on the road than the MX5, but have no actual experience... I've also heard that the NC was deliberately raised for some regulation or other...it really does look much better lower - very interesting to hear your report on that process as I'd assumed the ride would firm up (it's already quite hard). 👍 For me the power is more than enough, but you're absolutely right - basically anything can outrun you! I've struggled to keep up with a bloody Range Rover! On a twisty road! 🤦‍♂But that doesn't bother me as I always feel I'm going a million miles an hour whatever! Best of luck with the conversion - you're gonna end up with a monster! 🏎🤙

[@44Angelblue]

@@RichardBuckMovies - thanks! I hope so... Just one more thing to add based on (very) recent experience... Fitted the car with it's Winter tyres recently and for no better reason than it was all they had in stock, I went for 215 45 17 rears and 205 45 17 fronts - both Vredestein Quartac 5's. Really good tyres. As standard, the car sits on 205 45 17's - but a lot of people use 215 45 17 instead as they are often cheaper and the rolling radius isn't radically different. My Summer tyres are 215 45 17's and it's fine. Other cars I've had have been "staggered" front to rear much more significantly than this - admittedly having been designed to do so - but what the hell; what difference could 10mm make front to rear? Answer? Catastrophic amounts!! When I first drove it, I thought I was being buffeted by cross-winds, which got even more alarming the quicker you went. It was pushing hard to the left under any acceleration (had to steer against it!) and then immediately swung back quite violently to the right when I lifted off. Steady speed it tracked dead straight - same under braking - but under any acceleration it was horrible. Max effect was at about 60mph - dab the throttle, lift off, dab, lift off - and it weaved left right left right like a fish. Really disconcerting and more than a bit unnerving. Drove it home, parked it up and waited until another pair of Quartac's were available in either size (ended up 215 45 17's) - and - back to normal... I'll either sell on the 205's (less than 10 miles on them!) or hang on to them and add another same-sized pair when the 215's wear out. Just a reminder that these are really delicate cars and you mess with the geometry or tyre set up at your peril.. Expensive lesson for me. Hope yours is still running well btw! :)

[@RichardBuckMovies]

@@44Angelblue Wow - that's crazy! I really can't think why that would happen - maybe differential related somehow? Like the power isn't going evenly to each wheel but hard to see how that would happen when the tyres are the same size. Good to know anyways - cheers! 🤙

[@44Angelblue]

@@RichardBuckMovies - it was that they were 10mm wider at the back that caused the issue!! 205's OR 215's all round work fine. 215's at the back and 205's on the front - DON'T!! :)

[@44Angelblue]

@@RichardBuckMovies - stop press... FINALLY got the funds together and it's booked in for the full stage 2 (300+bhp) turbo upgrade with BBR (Brodie Britain Racing) for next month. Should be a much more exciting drive back home than the one taking it down! I'll let you know how it goes... :)

[@kssrider6766]

I don't own a Miata yet but plan to get one when I retire in a couple of years time. Can't afford the newer models so my target is a 2014-2015 NC. Your tips are so useful when I'm ready to get one for myself.

[@RichardBuckMovies]

Sounds like a great plan - roll on retirement! 😁🤙

[@kssrider6766]

@@RichardBuckMovies Thanks.

[@simonwolfe529]

great review

[@joneshank1]

I drive my NC 2006 wide open ! every time, can't be helped, its so much frekin fun!

[@RichardBuckMovies]

🤣🏎🚓🤙

[@Brockthedog315]

Really enjoyed this review. Hit the right topics with no messing around. I had a 2007 NC and now upgrading to 2010 with a hard top. Loved the soft top but in the city it always had me a bit worried. I still think the NC is the best version to date. Someday maybe the NE? But no ND for me. Thanks!

[@tonyloperfido711]

Insulate your trunk you won't believe how quiet the car gets

[@TheFracturedfuture]

The ND looks like shit IMO, the NC is much better looking.

[@OOICU812]

@@TheFracturedfuture the first time I saw one I thought it was a baby Corvette.

[@TheFracturedfuture]

@@OOICU812 The front and rear headlights just look awful, it's like they tried to be too modern and it ended up looking like crap. The previous Miatas always had a classic look to them, while the ND just doesn't have anything that makes it look classic. The ND just looks like every other modern car that tries too hard to look sharp and angular.

[@mitroiano]

Besides, the ND lost the great hydraulic steering the NC has. Plus the little extra room inside. Overall, the ND drives like my Honda Civic: nice, but not a sports car. The NC is much better.

[@th7321]

You have a matter of fact no BS delivery. Very refreshing !

[@RichardBuckMovies]

Thanks very much! 😀

[@toshibavoodoo]

LOVE LOVE, LOVE my NC 2012 GT HardTop! Agree 100%

[@gzk6nk]

I had a new NB for 3 years, traded for a new NC roadster hard top for 14 years (both trouble free) and traded the NC for an ND2 last May. Make no mistake, the ND is a FAR better car than the NC (as the NC was over the NB). The MX5 just keeps getting better. Rejoice in that.

[@RichardBuckMovies]

Amen brother! 😃🤙

[@chipparker3950]

Friend went from a 1250 BMW motorcycle, female rider at 71 became unsure at slow speeds. Dropped it at a gas stop. Traded for a Can Am. I said, buy a miata . More fun , more comfortable, safer and cheaper if buy one a few years old.

[@RichardBuckMovies]

It’s a great point - I think a Miata is 90% as fun as a bike, but far safer…it definitely cured me of bike lust! 🤣

[@JEORELLA]

amazinggg reviewwwww love how chill and informative!

[@wg5768]

Good review pointing out some things to be aware of on the NC . I have a PRHT version and even though it adds weight to the car,it is worth it. More security, a little quieter and never needing to replace it. It also is a true convertible unlike the new RF cars. The traction control must only be on the standard transmission cars as my ''Dreaded'' automatic does not have it. I'm in the U.S. and my 2008 has always been put away during the winter. It has no rust. I bought it five years ago used when everybody hated on the NC version and got an excellent deal. Now the prices have shot up because reviews have been positive. Another great point is that there are so many mods available for the NC. You are only limited by the size of your wallet!

[@RichardBuckMovies]

It’s a great car for sure! I can certainly see the benefits of the PRHT - I agree it’s a shame the ND RF kinda just pops the top off - why did they do that?! 🤦‍♂️ All the best! 🤙

[@jagboy69]

My 07 PHRT doesn't have traction control. Haven't missed it so far. It's the most fun you'll have at 50mph.

[@jacobfinksyoutubechannels5982]

how much did you buy your car for?

[@OOICU812]

@@RichardBuckMovies some people say they like having an open roof while not being so exposed like they would in a true convertible.

[@JS-iu8bs]

great stuff thanks. looking at a 2010 mx5 right now and this was helpful

[@mrpistonrecaro6483]

Just buy one can’t go wrong with either base or LSD but get the MT. They drive really nice. Better than na/nb

[@mikewalsh1536]

Excellent review, thank you very much

[@samfurnos5852]

Dude.. that was real good.. grats!!

[@FarideLadak]

Thanks for pointing out these details.

[@thewildwestpimp]

Its good on fuel by American standards!! Just bought my 07 Mx-5 6M hard top and love it soooo much my highlight of my day has been driving to and from work!

[@the1beard]

Sodium Percarbonate is good for cleaning moss on hoods

[@jimbandit1250sa]

Awesome review and plenty of tips thanks Richard very helpful 😊👍

[@denisfilatov7609]

My guy, maybe I’m doing something wrong, but 26mpg sounds really good. I live in California and I get about 20-23 in the city depending if I drive super easy or go a little harder. I have a 2015 club nc 6 speed

[@RichardBuckMovies]

Ah easily explained Denis - in the UK gallons are bigger! Seriously! Our gallon is about 1.2 times the size of yours. Also our fuel is higher octane than yours - 'regular' gas here is 95 RON, so that helps the mileage too. Another commenter mentioned they do a lot of city driving and get worse mileage than me so I think that sort of stop/start driving is really the MPG killer...sounds like your figures are to be expected. 😁🤙

[@toshibavoodoo]

BIKE? Good analagy, but I always refer to my NC (with Traction Control) as a Go Cart! It is VERY FUN, but not a comfortable ride. I love the ride with the Top down, but when the top is up and on the freeway you realize how much it feels like a bumpy coffin. LOVE MY NC!

[@RichardBuckMovies]

Totally - way quieter with the top down! 🤙

[@rodfrancis9160]

Changing my MX5 (NC3) soft top for a hard top version as I have had enough of the freezing u.k winter frost, makes it no fun at all with drops of water condensation inside the roof even with it covered over. And hopefully no water entering behind the seats.

[@RichardBuckMovies]

Winter is hell for convertible owners! How great would it be to have a garage?! 🤙

[@rembo183]

The retractable hardtop is the answer for water intrusion problems.

[@RichardBuckMovies]

I think you're right! 😅🤙

[@mrb8758]

A great and honest review. Thank you.

[@julianhawkins9423]

Great informative video 👍

[@mrstringerd12132]

I'm looking to buy one this weekend, found your vid randomly after searching lots, first thing I spotted though was the church, I'm in Macc! Great vid, v helpful. Might need to ask you where to get it serviced locally if you can recommend anywhere that knows an MX5.

[@RichardBuckMovies]

Ha ha well spotted! I just used my regular service mechanic - I don’t think there’s anything especially exotic in the Mx5…best of luck with your search! 🤙

[@johnnyboynhhungo]

Love your review best one if seen❤

[@RichardBuckMovies]

Thanks John! 🤙

[@dannyvan5792]

i have mk 3 1.8 with tracktion controle

[@007JHS]

We've just bought our 4th Mx5... three mk 1 and now a mk 3 (our most recent mk1 sold to our motor engineer's son)... We have fabric seats... but I would recommend someone clever with a sewing machine to make som fabric covers for the leather seats... don't buy commercial...all the fabric manuf set covers I've seen in recent years have been rubbish

[@ostapsulyk]

I think i just got years worth of experience condensed in one video

[@zxcrisr]

Hey man, nice video, i got an nc1 1.8 eu and we have traction control on it too, and to be fair, i never had condensation on the top and i usually clean it with a pressure wash, just staying a bit far away and keep an angle so it dosn't spray directly on the top

[@RichardBuckMovies]

Interesting about the traction control...what year is your NC? No condensation - you lucky guy! 😂 Are you in the UK (or anywhere cold and wet!) and keep the car outdoors? If so tell me more! For example, do you keep yours covered? I'm sure loads of people use the pressure washer - obviously if you're careful you'll be fine...but I think if I tried to blast that lichen off with one I'd just tear through the whole thing! I'm a dedicated bucket man! 😅 Cheers! 🤙

[@chrisyo2178]

Same here … belgium is a rainy country sometimes and i never had problems …also presure wash it every week 🙃 …2006 1.8 and dsc button that can be turned off👍

[@RedVikingTV]

@@chrisyo2178 same here, 1.8 and dsc button - best button in the car 🤣

[@chrisyo2178]

@@RedVikingTV 😂

[@kenshinbattousai374]

Alternatively, save one with rusty fenders and get a fender kit.

[@yoso585]

Great delivery!

[@RichardBuckMovies]

Thanks! 🤙

[@anthonys6657]

Great video. Thanks for the tips.

[@markjohnson5276]

I drive a gun metal grey 2014 MX 5 NC. A ten second car. Every time I drive it I'm in a Bond movie. When people see it they ask, 'does it have machine guns behind the fog lights?' The license plate reads 009. It's definitely licensed to kill.

[@RichardBuckMovies]

My NB was gunmetal grey - the best color! 🤙

[@treeskier802]

I’m looking at a 2007 and 2011 hard top grand touring for about the same money. The 07 has 120k miles the 11 has 150k. Both appear to be well taken care of yet the 07 has 2 different types of tires on it. Any differences besides the front fascia between these cars? Do these cars have seat height adjustment and tilt steering? Loved your review. Very helpful.

[@RichardBuckMovies]

The 2011 will be the NC2 (aka Mk 3.5), introduced in 2008 and widely regarded as the better car thanks to tuning to steering, suspension and gearbox. That's a lot of miles though - I think I'd hold on for a lower milage model... My NC1 had adjustable steering angle but the seats had no height adjustment.

[@treeskier802]

⁠Thank you for the quick reply. I agree the 2011 has high milage but I think that’s also the reason it is within my price range. The way I was sort of looking at it is that a 2011 with 150k miles is probably a better car than the countless NA and NB models I see for the same price with the same mileage. Supposedly these Miatas are very reliable. I’m looking for under $8000 and it’s rare to see NC in this price range. I search the entire US market for them. I’m not sure how the cars compare in price in the UK vs the US; but the Miatas seem to be low enough priced yet also retaining good value if that makes sense. This would be a second car for me and I’d probably only drive it 1000 miles per year at most. I appreciate your insights. I can tell you’re very knowledgable about these cars.

[@RichardBuckMovies]

@@treeskier802 If I were you, in the USA with good weather and dry roads I would buy an NB over an NC every day of the week! It's a much better car. Over here in the UK they rust like crazy and as I mention in the video are a bit sketchy to drive much of the year given the wet and slippy state of our roads. Don't get me wrong the NC is also great but in the right climate the NB is just wonderful. Best of luck with your search anyways!

[@treeskier802]

Why do you prefer the NB over the NC? I wish it were true that I lived in a warmer climate than you-but I’m afraid to report that where. I live weather conditions are worse. I’ll only be alone to use a Miata from May thru October. But I’m shopping for them in states where the weather is good so they are more abundant and. In better condition. I think the added safety features the NC has and the ability to get a power hardtop have swayed me to that generation. Slightly bigger engine too.

[@RichardBuckMovies]

@@treeskier802The NC is a great car but the NB is like riding a dragon! I had the 1.6 NB and the 2.0 NC - the NB felt quicker, more nimble, better steering, better gearbox, in every way a better, more special car. The sense of connection was just wonderful. The NC doesn't match it. However if you're in a shitty weather climate the hardtop NC is an excellent choice. 🤙

[@davidstorm4015]

You said these cars don't rust as bad as a Mk2, and you did mention wheel arch rust, but then pointed to the front arches. This is not generally where Mk3's rust, the bad area is in the rear arches, beneath the fabric liners, particularly on the sill-end panels. You will often find the metal here completely gone. Also, behind the rear bumper bar is very prone to serious rust. If buying one of these, check both these areas and treat accordingly (3 coats of hammerite is a good idea once you've cleaned all surface rust off). If not treated these areas will require significant repairs. Other than that, these cars are great, especially the 3.5 models (2010 on I think), as the engines were upgraded with forged internals, slightly different torque curve and a higher rev redline at around 7,250 RPM

[@RichardBuckMovies]

Good tips thanks! I did have one of my front arches repaired in addition to both rear - all three at the top of the arch…I’m not sure why there in particular…the body shop didn’t say I had any other problems so hopefully I’m good for now! 😅 I have read that the 3.5 has many improvements - I’d love to drive one to compare! Cheers! 🤙

[@samehsalib1833]

Very good Video.

[@deano2160]

The lack of rust protection is really unacceptable with a modern car. It's a cost saving thing that has plagued these cars. It wouldn't put me off as I own a T4 and believe me those rust so I am acquainted with rust and the treatments but Mazda should have been better with what was a well known problem. I will have a MX5 one day though. Look forward to the experience.

[@buijs1967]

Closed the softop looks so much better compared to the PRHT.

[@RichardBuckMovies]

Agreed. But then again - it should always be open, right? 🤣🤙

[@connashio1]

A 2.0 Sport will be my choice

[@toshibavoodoo]

40 MPG??? I average 28 MPG, but my best is 36MPG! Gave up getting better than 36, but hearing you got 40mpg I might try to beat that on my next 24hr Drive through the National Parks in Western USA!

[@RichardBuckMovies]

Don't forget UK gallons are bigger - seriously! You're already doing great! 😁🤙

[@sandpiperuk]

The NC seems to be more thirsty than the ND. I get over 40mpg from my 2.0 2015 Sport Nav.

[@OOICU812]

This has to be the NC's best looking profile angle. 2:19

[@zsb707]

No hate from guys who would bash the NC, asserting that the only true Miatas are NA, NB & ND? ☺ I've owned an NC1 (galaxy grey) for 8 years now and really like it.

[@RichardBuckMovies]

My NB was a better car in every respect except the safety features - if you could buy an NB with traction control I would! Not a problem for everyone, but here in England the roads are a wet slimey mess for 6 months of the year...

[@johntimken9842]

No hate from me. I've never been in an NC and have been driving my NA for the last 7 years, but I'll be swapping it for an NC next spring. I love the NA but it's just too slow, and too old now to interest tuning firms like BBr. If you want a 200+bhp MX5, and cannot diy, then the NC is the only option.

[@RichardBuckMovies]

@@johntimken9842 my NC is stock but I have heard you can get huge HP gains simply via a remap…. I’m kinda tempted but terrified too!! 😂

[@geonauto]

My NB had LSD and ABS ,felt very confident driving it,since u know how to deal with the back end. I bought an NC2 ,Is no even similar car,totally different,don’t like too much,but my wife loves it.

[@RichardBuckMovies]

@@geonauto It took me a long time to get over the NB/NC switch - totally different car as you say. I do like it now, but still mourn the loss of the NB...driving that thing was like riding a dragon.

[@user-ef7qh6qm5w]

Great vid

[@tonyloperfido711]

I have a 2012 NC hard top with the top up the car thunders in the background I insulated the trunk and my car is so quiet I can't believe it

[@RichardBuckMovies]

Really? I do notice the noise is behind me - good to know thanks! 🤙

[@aliriaz1608]

Can you help me buy a Mazda MX-5 Mark 3.

[@michaelj7069]

This was my spec. God do I miss it.

[@Shane_Marsh]

Sub frames. I've looked at 3 different nc1 in the last month and they all had rotten front and rear subframes.

[@joneshank1]

I have a little Japanese girl friend I named Emiko she is an Mazda mx5 NC.😆

[@themancuniancandidate2744]

I agree about how tactile the MX5 NC is; I can't agree with the NA/NB enthusiasts who slate it. Lucky for me, I live in Western Australia, so no rust and not much rain. You were dead-on about those leather seats; when it's pushing 40 degrees here, the roof goes up or you end up sweating like Jeremy Beadle in a glove shop. The Peak District is one of the best places in the country to enjoy an MX5; I used to drive over from Manchester at weekends just get the most of out of my M3 when I lived there.

[@RichardBuckMovies]

🤣🤣🤣🧤

[@byrnesy919]

You mentioned wheel arch rust, check the rears underneath the fabric liner as this is where the real rust happens. Mine is getting welded as I type this. Also never run these engines low on oil

[@RichardBuckMovies]

Good tips! 👍

[@4HIRO]

Do you think the BMW 318i is a good competitor versus this Miata?

[@RichardBuckMovies]

I’ve never driven a BMW so can’t comment on the experience. When it comes to affordability and reliability however I’d always choose Japanese over German manufacturing.

[@Valera_Scotland]

Saving for a hard top version. I'm 6ft. Do you think this is the best model to go for? The NC?

[@RichardBuckMovies]

The NB is by far the better car if you are in a dry climate. The ND is generally agreed to be better than the NC. But the NC does sit in a sweet spot for price, rust resistance and safety. But if you are somewhere dry and/or have a garage for it get the NB! 😁

[@Valera_Scotland]

@@RichardBuckMovies I'm in Scotland, so it's not the driest.. and my budget will be around £6000.. so the NC is probably the best option

[@RichardBuckMovies]

Yeah I would say so. Look into the retractable hardtop version - that may be the best option for your climate.

[@revtimewest]

If you wreck the car at 30 mph its not lack of traction control that is the problem.

[@aidanmochan306]

I'm currently in the market for a new daily to last me a few months, when I seen the prices of these I was immediately tempted especially since they double as great track day toys so may end up keeping it long term, but will need it as a daily until I've stuck out the trial phase in the new job lol. do you think its feasible to daily this, at least over summer anyway. I'll be going to see a wee silver 1.8 some point this week touch wood, and I'll be doing city mileage mostly. seen a lot of MOT fails and advisories regarding structural rust, a bit of a put off but when they're coming up for 20 what do you expect. Also worth mentioning I don't have a garage for storage. Is it feasible to drive during the winter or is it better to keep it covered and off the road? Really got my eye on the Alfa Giulia but could probably buy 4/5 of these for the price of a Giulia so its one for the future haha. Great video anyway mate will be checking for all the stuff you mentioned this week. Really glad to hear the 1.8 has TC as well, I've no experience with RWDs and I'll be coming from driving a Seat with a 1.4 so will be fair bit different don't wanna wrap it around a pole or worse another car come winter hahaha!

[@RichardBuckMovies]

You *could* use it daily, but personally I wouldn't *want* to. The problem is bad weather - if you're in part of the world that regularly gets cold and wet, and as you say the car will live on the street, you're going to see a lot of annoying days. As amazing as this car is in the summer, it's just not practical in the winter. The interior will often be damp, and with the top-up it's a noisy, not particularly nice place to be. I wouldn't want to drive it *at all* in snowy/icy conditions on account of the RWD - although traction control should help, you really can't beat having power to the front wheels in bad conditions. If you're still keen to try, I would say make sure you get one with working aircon - that will help with the damp mornings. Best of luck! 🤙

[@aidanmochan306]

@@RichardBuckMovies You're right I think mate, if I'm commuting in it mostly I'll need it feasible for driving relatively long distances and for a relatively long time so it might not be as good an option as I'd hoped unfortunately. back to the drawing board I guess. Anything you'd suggest yourself for a fun daily? I've been hunting on Autotrader and showroom forecourts all weekend and I'm still no closer to a decision haha, the idea of a new car is definitely fun, didn't realise how much work it would take though lol.

[@RichardBuckMovies]

@@aidanmochan306 it’s a tough one! I recently had to buy something practical and bought a Honda Jazz! It’s immensely practical (incredibly spacious and great on mileage) but not exactly fun. 🤣 A Fiesta/Focus ST?

[@RichardBuckMovies]

@@aidanmochan306 I was tempted for a while by a Honda CR-Z but they basically drive like a Jazz so very lacking in fun.

[@RichardBuckMovies]

@@aidanmochan306 for some reason I’ve seen quite a few MX-5 drivers get a Volvo C30 as their daily - no idea why but not driven one - maybe they’re fun?

[@kimkimkim8]

Can you do some more mazda mx5 videos, I'm new to the brand. Thanks

[@wojtekkoperski9648]

as a NCFL owner, I would say that if you cant drive, any DSC ABS in this car wont help you. These are not safety features, these are things that help you with small traction issues. Safety is your brain and your skill

[@RichardBuckMovies]

I would have agreed with you before my crash, but honestly even if I knew it was gonna happen I don’t think I could have controlled it - in under a second I was 90 degrees sideways. Traction control would have caught it. Cheers 🤙

[@wojtekkoperski9648]

@@RichardBuckMovies its possible it would help, short wheel base cars like MX-5 are easy to spin. Usain Bolt in both hands or crash 🤣 I've never used traction control in my NC its always off and I'm always ready to handle it because I know that its a raw car and nothing else

[@RichardBuckMovies]

@@wojtekkoperski9648 You're a braver man than I am! 😅👍

[@RichardBuckMovies]

I should explain a little more why I think traction control would have saved it. 🤦‍♂️It was going up hill in 2nd gear - my NB was a 1.6 so it wasn't happy on the slope in third doing 30mph - that's honestly how fast I was going - just 30 mph. So I had quite a bit of torque - the corner was moderately sharp, and when I hit whatever slippy patch was on the road that torque escaped and spun the wheels, friction dropped to nothing and that was that. 😭 Traction control should have caught that - it's not like it lost traction due to lateral force. Anyways - I was so sad to lose the NB I didn't wanna go through that ever again! 🤣

[@wojtekkoperski9648]

@@RichardBuckMovies in this situation, it would help to reduce wheel rotation and the force

[@radekw708]

I can confirm its quite efficient, 30-40 is bad? LOL

[@horaymirror9849]

Wait he says that 26 mpg is terrible?!?, I drive a 2003 Tacoma and get 15 mpg average 😅

[@joneshank1]

Emiko in japan means smiling child.

[@lloydrivera1998]

Just moved to Florida and need a car. Would this be a great daily driver or should I look somewhere else?

[@RichardBuckMovies]

When the weather is good it's a joy to drive - I'd drive it everyday! But maybe consider cloth seats in that climate! 🤣🤙

[@Jethinobamino]

what's the sound quality like for the FM transmitter? I saw some of the reviews on amazon saying there's some static/background noise.

[@RichardBuckMovies]

I’d say pretty good - not perfect. Certainly better than an older one I had. I think it depends a lot on the car - the soft top lets the radio signal through no problem - a metal roof would surely be more of a barrier.

[@Jethinobamino]

@@RichardBuckMovies great, will give it a try! thanks!

[@paulw103]

Hey Richard, how come you sold the MX5? Bizarrely I looked at this car in a dealers in Wigan today?

[@RichardBuckMovies]

Ha ha no way! It’s a sad tale…I had to buy my wife a car that could fitted with hand controls, so I got her an Audi A4 convertible automatic. Nice car but turns out the fuel economy is a disaster - 20 MPG if you’re just running around town! Unbelievable…. Anyway because it was much more comfortable for her with her bad back it became the main car - I just couldn’t live with that MPG and the Audi had the special controls already fitted so I had to replace the MX5 🥲 with some comfortable and efficient. So there you have my sad tale! I didn’t want to sell and the MX5 is sound so you could get a bargain! Someone did put a dent in it (right outside my house - no note 😡) - drivers side behind the door - that was really the only thing wrong with it…they only gave me £1500 part ex - how much did they want for it?

[@paulw103]

@@RichardBuckMovies Shame you had to let the MX5 go, seemed a solid car, going back today to test drive. It’s up at £3995 which is pretty much about what they’re going for at dealers. Can’t believe they only gave you £1500 PX😧 Maybe I’ll go with a cheeky offer😆 Cheers for letting me know👍

[@RichardBuckMovies]

@@paulw103 4K!? Jesus! 🤬 I got quite a few part-exchange quotes and they were all about the same… I considered selling it myself but in the end I didn’t want the hassle and it didn’t look like I’d get a great deal more for it anyways…deffo worth a much lower offer! Still can’t believe you got to the video after seeing the car! 🤯🤙

[@paulw103]

@@RichardBuckMovies I know I couldn’t believe it either😂 It was definitely a double take moment! Hope you got a good deal from them on the new car👍

[@RichardBuckMovies]

@@paulw103 oh one last thing! The drivers side sun visor cracked days before I sold it - purely due to me using it in freezing conditions. It’s didn’t break completely and just hangs a little lower than it should. Unless they’ve fixed it I’d want to take it off like I did with the passenger side. 👍

[@trapsoulx]

What’s a fair price for a used nc with 140000km??

[@RichardBuckMovies]

I really couldn't say - they seem to vary a huge amount - for example Autotrader has examples from £2500 to £8000! Just depends on the rest of the car details I guess.

[@lukesampson8181]

i got an mx5 nc 2006, with 142k mileage for 1.1k pounds, great condition too

[@CutcliffePaul]

5:32: What are you talking about, not a fuel-efficient car? 🤯 Show me another car with similar performance that does 30mpg when driving spiritedly - I don't think you can. And you won't find any car as cheap to buy and to run as this that offers anything like as much fun to drive, especially at (or close to) the speed limits. I've just bought a silver 56-plate 2.0 Sport (it looks just like yours except without anything broken!) with

[@RichardBuckMovies]

It’s true! I was talking in general terms which is unfair. Glad you got yourself a nice one - that’s a great price! 🤙

[@CutcliffePaul]

@@RichardBuckMovies Thanks. It makes a change - I’ve bought bad examples of cars before which have cost me dearly, but it seems not this time. 😝

[@fanzo_san]

Nice review, you missed the biggest issue with these NC1. Oil starvation will result in a guaranteed bottom end disaster. For those less mechanically minded, if the car has been run with low oil levels, chances are, it will need a new engine now or in a very near future. Believe me, people more often than not, don't bother with checking oil levels... And these cars use oil!! I had 3 Mk1 in the past, all 3 of them had low oil levels when I went to buy. Luckily the mk1 engine is not so susceptible to oil starvation. With the Mk3, especially the Nc1... You will pay the price (new engine, aka a 3k bill).

[@zsb707]

You speak the truth, Enzo. These engines in the NC1 eat oil like crazy. Check the level each time you drive it, and you'll be fine.

[@ZG0002]

Do yourself a favour and get a good look under the car. If its not too rusty get it cleaned up and protected if you want to keep the thing. The actual likely hood is half ya sub frame and sills are already gone 😅

[@zaffuanable1]

I don't get why mazda made the hard top ND that way. They got the perfect recipe for convertible hard top. Why change? 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@RichardBuckMovies]

The ND is smaller - maybe that’s why? It is a shame!

[@chrisyo2178]

1.8 has dsc trust me i have it

[@RichardBuckMovies]

Good to know - thanks man! 🤙

[@zsb707]

Of course it has DSC.

[@ibjoe2]

Bet go-kart I’ve ever had…

[@Thegamerboy808]

Why did he say the car is not fuel efficient then says he’s gets 30+ miles to the gallon 😂😭

[@RichardBuckMovies]

Fair comment - I guess everything is relative! 🤣🤙

[@markywellsboy2182]

Relative to TD vehicles that can nearly double that mpg.

[@lemjohnson6798]

If 26 mpg is bad in gas then I don't know what is 😂😂😂

[@timsgta]

This guys is nuts if he thinks an inline 4 is not fiel efficient!

[@sunblindX]

Traction control as essential. :D lmao. buy a prius.

[@julianhawkins9423]

Great video very informative 👍