Wife says she wants a sports car (open top) in addition to the Elegrand. Wanted something that would squeeze into the garage next to Boris. Initial thoughts were for a Smart Roadster, because of its size , and it looks quite nice. Could probably write a book about the issues associated with these cars. Son-in-law suggested MX5. They look good to me and I could buy a younger one than the Smart car. What think you?
Well, I'm obviously biased because I love them!
Biggest problem with all of them - rust!
MK1 my favourite. Smallest / lightest. They are a bit basic / "raw" compared to the others. Rust on the rear of the sills is the biggest issue.
MK2 / 2.5 a bit more civalised than MK1. Still very good. Rust potentially worse than MK1 - same issues but add in front chassis legs and it is pretty well hidden.
MK3 / 3.5 Arguably the "best" car but quite a bit heavier / bigger. Even these are rusting now.
MK4 Near enough same size / weight as MK1. They are still pretty new and hence not cheap. I have been toying with the idea of getting one but not sure if I actually want a "new" car.
Much depends on your budget. It isn't all doom and gloom with the early ones - there are still some good ones out there, you just have to be careful. A clean one is only going to go up in value - so many are being ruined by the boy racer / drift wannabe / scene kids.
In general, they are often suggested as the goto answer for a cheap, reliable, "sports" car - I can see why. I paid £650 for mine, have had it for 5 years, use it more than the Elgrand, have some great fun in it and really haven't had many issues with it. Mechanically they are pretty bullet proof.
Smart roadster - don't know much about them other than the supposedly awful gearbox and propensity to leak...
I'm by no means an expert on them but if you have any questions, I'll try and help.
(Pop-up headlights NEVER fail to bring me joy)
