Mazda MX5, Mazda Miata, Eunos Roadster

[Roger Dowding]

The Mazda MX5 was first produced in 1989 and is now in its 28th year of production
Here is an article on the early years ;

https://www.hagerty.com/articles-videos/articles/2017/09/06/mazda-mx5-miata-origin-american-bob-hall?utm_source=MagnetMail&utm_medium=email&utm_term=jaguar@oldirish.com&utm_content=1

Please feel free to post any MX5 related items on this thread;

My own 1991 V- Spec Limited Edition ;
photo from 2014
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photo from "Caffeine and Classics August 2017
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cheers

Roger

[Growler]

There are close to 500 members in the Mazda MX5 Car Club nationwide now.
Would love to find an early coupe but they only made around 160 I believe.

http://i65.tinypic.com/302ul2b.png

[Roger Dowding]

There are close to 500 members in the Mazda MX5 Car Club nationwide now.
Would love to find an early coupe but they only made around 160 I believe.

http://i65.tinypic.com/302ul2b.png

Nice car, have never seen one .. the NB Coupe,
here is a Roadster.

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[Roger Dowding]

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Pukekohe Track Day 2004
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The car now June 2017 ..
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[Growler]

They do a Fastback fibreglass kit in the States that turns it into a coupe. I reckon it makes a great looking race car.
How long have you had yours now?

http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t193/streetseen/ORG/SuperLapBattle/IMG_4982.jpg (http://s160.photobucket.com/user/streetseen/media/ORG/SuperLapBattle/IMG_4982.jpg.html)

[Roger Dowding]

They do a Fastback fibreglass kit in the States that turns it into a coupe. I reckon it makes a great looking race car.
How long have you had yours now?

http://i160.photobucket.com/albums/t193/streetseen/ORG/SuperLapBattle/IMG_4982.jpg (http://s160.photobucket.com/user/streetseen/media/ORG/SuperLapBattle/IMG_4982.jpg.html)

Growler, its a 1991 V - Spec and have owned it since it arrived in New Zealand in September 1996, has its 21st Birthday under my ownership on the 24th ..

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Still have the original 14 inch wheels, they need to be refurbished,as does the whole car.
It came with many accessories;
Wind Blocker, half Tonneau, V-Spec floor mats,
I got a chrome roll bar that arrived on another car at the time, and later on the Black Hardtop.

[Growler]

Ha! That's about the same time I bought mine - April 1996. Mines a 1989 so one of the very first ones off the line. I have modified mine of course. It still has the 1600 in it but from a 1993 as I had the crank nose issue, and it worked out cheaper to put another block into it.
I did lighten the flywheel slightly while I was at it.Other mods are suspension and exhaust. I'm toying with the idea of adapting the Mini supercharger to it but that's when I get time.
I have been gifted another MX5 (1990) from my Step Mother as she has now retired and bought a "more sensible car". This one is a bit tired but have fixed a lot of things on it. Not sure what I'll do with it just yet.

[Kevin Hirst]

Ha! That's about the same time I bought mine - April 1996. Mines a 1989 so one of the very first ones off the line. I have modified mine of course. It still has the 1600 in it but from a 1993 as I had the crank nose issue, and it worked out cheaper to put another block into it.
I did lighten the flywheel slightly while I was at it.Other mods are suspension and exhaust. I'm toying with the idea of adapting the Mini supercharger to it but that's when I get time.
I have been gifted another MX5 (1990) from my Step Mother as she has now retired and bought a "more sensible car". This one is a bit tired but have fixed a lot of things on it. Not sure what I'll do with it just yet.

About to start refurbish on partner's 1989 MX5, need LF guard & LH door if anybody has them, car has done over300,000 K's only trouble it has had was crank nose, brilliant machine.

[Roger Dowding]

About to start refurbish on partner's 1989 MX5, need LF guard & LH door if anybody has them, car has done over300,000 K's only trouble it has had was crank nose, brilliant machine.

Kevin, try Ross Campbell at MX5 Mart in Tauranga - he may either have the parts or know who has ;
phone 07 543 4567 he is at 389 Joyce Road, Pyes Pa.. has a website but not sure if the address is a workshop / warehouse or his home..

Agree about the longevity / reliability, as mentioned mine has done over 226,000 k's and now need a good tidy up, seats and door panels, minor panelwork and repaint, new or repaired soft top, and refitting of some components, Roll / Style bar and some accessories, Tonneau, Wind Blocker etc ..
Hope it goes well Kevin !!
Growler, hang onto it if you can, great car and a worthy 1990's idea of a 1960/70's British Sports car.

[khyndart in CA]

How would you lads like to have one of these ?

1991 Mazda MX-5 Le Mans EDITION

Year: 1991 0-62 mph: 6.8 secs Engine: 1,598 cc Top Speed: 130 mph Number Built: 24

As well as being the most distinctive special-edition car ever produced by Mazda, the MX-5 Le Mans is definitely the rarest. Built to celebrate Mazda winning the 1991 24 Hours of Le Mans race, just 24 of these roadsters were built by Mazda UK between August and December of that year—one for each of the 24 hours raced by the triumphant rotary-powered 787B race car.

Only available in the same team colors as the 787B, the MX-5 Le Mans’ stunning livery was a proper paint job, rather than a modern-day wrap. And there was performance to back up those racy looks. Underneath the hood lurked a BBR low-pressure turbo kit that boosted the car’s 1.6-liter engine from 115 hp to 150 hp, with torque rising from 135 Nm to 208 Nm. That meant a top speed of 130 mph and the 0-62 mph dash taking just 6.8 seconds.

“Each car came with a certificate of authenticity signed by racing driver Johnny Herbert”

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p.s. Moss Miata will have a new website next month and it should have some interesting information but I still say to them their products are all "foo foo" stuff compared to the British side of Moss Motors.

(Ken H)

[Growler]

About to start refurbish on partner's 1989 MX5, need LF guard & LH door if anybody has them, car has done over300,000 K's only trouble it has had was crank nose, brilliant machine.

The easiest fix for the crank nose is just do an engine swap. I have done 6 now for various members. (Only takes about 15 hours!). You can glue the bottom pulley on, but that usually is a temporary measure. Halfway through 1990 Mazda identified the issue and fixed it by increasing the shaft diameter, increasing the length of the key way and using a larger bolt.
The only other issues they have are the rear calipers, and sometimes rust under the stainless steel door sill covers if they are fitted.

Good luck with using Ross at MX5 Mart. I have never used him but I believe its pretty hit-n-miss with the service he offers.
There is a closed group on Facebook (NZ MX5) who are of the younger generation but you can get a lot of parts reasonably cheaply. A few guys part them out occasionally.

MazSpares in Christchurch also look after club members and they are reasonably priced. I can send you the contact details if you want it.

[Roger Dowding]

Thanks Ken,should I do that as part of the repaint ??, not really as would need all the trick sills and grilles spoilers etc..

[khyndart in CA]

Oh come on Roger, you are part way there, it's just your green is a different shade but with some orange paint and some Moss "foo foo " spoilers etc you could be quite the lad about town !

[Peter M]

Oh come on Roger, you are part way there, it's just your green is a different shade but with some orange paint and some Moss "foo foo " spoilers etc you could be quite the lad about town !

Kevin. An excellent source for parts is Neil Ellison at New Plymouth he is mx5spares.co.nz phone 027 6455777.
I am building a kit car with MX5 donor parts, Neill is very helpful and obliging, he has dismantled a large number of MX5.
My experience with Ross at MX5 mart Tauranga is very ordinary.

[Kevin Hirst]

Kevin. An excellent source for parts is Neil Ellison at New Plymouth he is mx5spares.co.nz phone 027 6455777.
I am building a kit car with MX5 donor parts, Neill is very helpful and obliging, he has dismantled a large number of MX5.
My experience with Ross at MX5 mart Tauranga is very ordinary.

Thank's for the information guy's a big help'

[GeebeeNZ]

Thanks Roger the Silver one GRA3M3 is my one. 1998 205,000kms 1600cc Auto Graeme Banks

[Roger Dowding]

Thanks Roger the Silver one GRA3M3 is my one. 1998 205,000kms 1600cc Auto Graeme Banks

Great Graeme, the Cars seem to do huge " mileage " - old word, without much trouble..
I have been to " Caffeine and Classics " in May and August, will miss September but should be there for October, may run in to you ..
cheers Roger D.

[Roger Dowding]

A couple more pics of the car ;

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Engine Bay with POD Filter
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Dash and Nardi Steering Wheel [ yes It has a Momo Horn Boss - centre as when I got the car it had a Red Mazda Personal Horn Boss ]
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My old 1971 issue NZ standard Crash Helmet, that was used 1971 to 1983. It is now hanging up in the garage probably cannot be used as complied to NZS at the time
46390

The instrument panel in January 2017 Odometer at 226210 km, has only done about 600km since then
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The Chassis plate - Eunos Roadster had the NA prefix whereas MX5's [ for export ] had a J prefix JMX I believe
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[Growler]

The Chassis plate - Eunos Roadster had the NA prefix whereas MX5's [ for export ] had a J prefix JMX I believe
46388
There are various explanations but still haven't found out all of the details on the Jap imports into NZ numbers.

http://i67.tinypic.com/2rp5roo.png
http://i68.tinypic.com/28714c7.png

[Roger Dowding]

Growler, thanks had seen it before but had not saved the details.. mine being a Japan only,they left of the JMZ part .. must now try to trace its actual manufacture date with the info, cheers

[librules]

Greeting from west of the Tasman. Here's my current NA6. Very standard apart from the wheels. It is relatively low mileage with just over 160,000km from new. I bought it late last year in Cairns, QLD and drove it back to the outskirts of Melbourne, VIC, a distance of approx 3,200km. On that trip, I had no number plates and was running on temporary registration. I was not pulled over at all during the QLD leg (approx half the entire distance) but got pulled over 3 times in NSW by their Highway Patrol, including whilst doing a very legal lap of Mt Panorama.... This car replaces an earlier red NA6 I had which was set up for tarmac rallies. I sold it due to it being a bit tired in all areas. I do have pics of it but they will take a bit of finding. 4641946420

[Roger Dowding]

an American look at the creation of the Mazda Miata - MX5 - Eunos Roadster ..

https://www.facebook.com/donutmedia/videos/796564143839065/

[Kevin Hirst]

an American look at the creation of the Mazda Miata - MX5 - Eunos Roadster ..

https://www.facebook.com/donutmedia/videos/796564143839065/

Good story, had to remove Jayne's MX5 from storage shed yesterday, fitted battery & fired up like it had been running continually, not sitting in shed for over a year, just love that fuel injection.

[Growler]

Good story, had to remove Jayne's MX5 from storage shed yesterday, fitted battery & fired up like it had been running continually, not sitting in shed for over a year, just love that fuel injection.

Spose I should take mine out at some point. It was last used in March when I had to get a warrant.

[Roger Dowding]

46823

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[Roger Dowding]

There are three MX5's / Eunos Roadsters in my neighbourhood, so a few photos of the other two...

On seven spoke Alloys
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On BBS Alloys in the multispoke [ Hotwire ] style
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[Growler]

They both look like NZ new cars...

[Roger Dowding]

They both look like NZ new cars...

Will go and check the Rego stickers, the SI plate would be NZ new but CWR either second hand import or re-registered, will have a play on Carjam ..my new hobby !! being MX5's they have the different badges and the rear Number Plate surround is different,
--wider--.

UN7284 my 1991 Eunos Roadster, owned since September 1996. The first and only owner in NZ had 35720km on the Odo when bought, has just clicked over 227,000 in the last week
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1995 Mazda MX5
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[Roger Dowding]

Growler, obviously " DOODS " and " JANES1 " liked their personalised plates
Car NZ new in 1995 had the 1839 cc engine 98kw, not the 1598 cc 88kw

From Carjam
Plates History

Plate Effective Date
CWR154 03-Nov-2005
JANESI 09-Feb-2001
DOODS 06-Nov-1998
TW858 13-Dec-1995

SI4795 is a 1994 model also NZ New with no change of plates .. 1839 cc 98 Kw engine

[Roger Dowding]

Carjam has confused me.

Here are the details for the Rego plate " DOODS "

Year: 1995
Make: MAZDA
Model: MX5
Colour: Blue
Submodel: ROADSTER S/T 1.8 M5
Body Style: Convertible
VIN: JM0NA30P500100018
Plate: DOODS
Engine No: BP980440
Chassis: JMONA30P500100018

and here for " CWR154 " the car I photographed here in Hillcrest, Auckland

Year: 1995
Make: MAZDA
Model: MX5
Colour: BLUE
Submodel: ROADSTER S/T 1.8 M5
Body Style: Convertible
VIN: JM0NA30P500100018
Plate: CWR154
Engine No: BP980440
Chassis: JMONA30P500100018

Same VIN -
So what car is the plate " DOODS " actually on ??

[Alan Hyndman]

Carjam has confused me.


So what car is the plate " DOODS " actually on ??

-------------
Hi Roger,
The car is currently registered CWR154, but was registered DOODS at one point in the past (by the look if it, there's been a few plate changes over the years).
DOODS is currently unassigned to a car, so is presumably sitting in a cupboard somewhere.
Cheers, Alan.

[Roger Dowding]

They both look like NZ new cars...

Growler !! are you the same Growler on the MX5 Forum ?? , I have just joined ..

Alan H .. yes DOODS and CWR154 both bring up the same car on Carjam, with DOODS page showing that there is a newer plate ..
Saw CWR154 out for a drive today, I was in my modern so couldn't honk or flash hello !!

[Roger Dowding]

Sane
47504

Insane
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Meanwhile a more sedate approach with UN7284
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[BMCBOY]

Here's one that was racing at Manfield last year.

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[Growler]

Growler !! are you the same Growler on the MX5 Forum ?? , I have just joined ..
Ha! Yes I am. Also a life member of the NZ MX5 Car Club. Been a member for over 20 years. I don’t frequent the forum much these days. There is some really good information on there but I just don’t have time to check it on a daily basis.

Yes there are a few V8 MX5’s here in NZ. I have seen video of one racing at Ruapuna with a twin turbo Lexus V8!
Flying Miata in the States offer a kit so you can fit the Corvette motor (LS1 or LS3 from memory). They have just released a kit for the latest MX5 which looks impressive. I’ll see if I can find the video.
There was another crowd a few years ago called Monster Miata that were using the supercharged Mustang motor. Not sure if they are still around?

Reading your post Roger I think you purchased yours about the same time I purchased mine. It was April 1996. I have just ticked over 130k, however some of those km’s would have been around Taupo, Pukekohe and Hampton Downs, along with a few gymkhanas etc. The poor girl doesn’t get used much these days!

[GeebeeNZ]

Great Graeme, the Cars seem to do huge " mileage " - old word, without much trouble..
I have been to " Caffeine and Classics " in May and August, will miss September but should be there for October, may run in to you ..
cheers Roger D.

Roger just replaced my 1998 NB with a NZ new 2006 NC. it will also be wearing the GRA3M3 plate soon. sadly I will be in wellington for the next north shore caffeine and classics but if you see a metallic blue NC with that plate say Hello.

[Roger Dowding]

There were quite a number of MX5's at Caffeine and Classics this month, mainly NA - first series a couple of NB's and the latest one;

snuck in the middle of this group!!
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and again in the middle ..
48056

an NB
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something newer with a " Big "mate
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an NB with its bigger brother RX7 ..
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" That's all folks " as they said in Looney tunes cartoons..

[Roger Dowding]

Read this early in the year, from Takapuna Library

54439

and a couple of Publicity Photos for the V- Special from the book; My car doesn'tlook that good any more !!

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As an aside I also read around that time March 2018 the Howden Ganley Book " Road to Monaco ".
a good piece on NZ Motoring History is included as well as Howden's Overseas exploits. Book from the Takapuna Library

54442

A couple of the Ganley Cars

54443

54444

[Kevin Hirst]

Kevin, try Ross Campbell at MX5 Mart in Tauranga - he may either have the parts or know who has ;
phone 07 543 4567 he is at 389 Joyce Road, Pyes Pa.. has a website but not sure if the address is a workshop / warehouse or his home..

Agree about the longevity / reliability, as mentioned mine has done over 226,000 k's and now need a good tidy up, seats and door panels, minor panelwork and repaint, new or repaired soft top, and refitting of some components, Roll / Style bar and some accessories, Tonneau, Wind Blocker etc ..
Hope it goes well Kevin !!
Growler, hang onto it if you can, great car and a worthy 1990's idea of a 1960/70's British Sports car.

Have finished Jaynes MX5 refurbish/repaint , car now lookes heaps better, only need's cut & polish now, did not need to buy door or guard as used long forgotten panel beating skills, as car is now complete & was looking for something to do bought rear damaged 92 model which is now all masked up waiting for some warm weather to apply paint. Got ih youch with Ross Campbell for rear panel secfions for 92 model, he was most helpfull & said come down & help yourself wich I did armed with cut off disc & saw. charged a very modest price & was most helpfull.

[Roger Dowding]

Have finished Jaynes MX5 refurbish/repaint , car now lookes heaps better, only need's cut & polish now, did not need to buy door or guard as used long forgotten panel beating skills, as car is now complete & was looking for something to do bought rear damaged 92 model which is now all masked up waiting for some warm weather to apply paint. Got ih youch with Ross Campbell for rear panel secfions for 92 model, he was most helpfull & said come down & help yourself wich I did armed with cut off disc & saw. charged a very modest price & was most helpfull.

Good to read Kevin. pleased Ross could help as heard from a couple of others he wasn't always helpful,he will be useful for me when UN7284 my NA model finally leaves Auckland for the bay of Plenty ..a long story involved here !!

[Growler]

I have heard more negative than positive feedback regarding Ross Campbell over the years. Lack of response to phone calls or emails, issues with people getting ripped off etc. However some people have had a good deal from him. I know him but have never dealt with him personally. Suggest you tread carefully when dealing with him.
And don’t tell me you have sold your MX5 Roger?

Off subject. A friend of mine has just landed one of the rare MK2 coupes. They only ever made 147 and they are as rare as hens teeth! (And increasing in value at a great rate!)

[Roger Dowding]

I have heard more negative than positive feedback regarding Ross Campbell over the years. Lack of response to phone calls or emails, issues with people getting ripped off etc. However some people have had a good deal from him. I know him but have never dealt with him personally. Suggest you tread carefully when dealing with him.
And don’t tell me you have sold your MX5 Roger?

Off subject. A friend of mine has just landed one of the rare MK2 coupes. They only ever made 147 and they are as rare as hens teeth! (And increasing in value at a great rate!)

Would love see the car

Growler Re ; And don’t tell me you have sold your MX5 Roger. NO...
Car is in Auckland and I now live in the Bay of Plenty, but have a family garage I leave it in here in the big smoke where I am at the moment, so off for a warrant, in fact had a short drive today with a WoF that expired a week or so ago.

I found another photo of it today, looking a bit tired !!
55003

Hope it will be at Caffeine and Classics at the end of the month Wof willing ..

[Oldfart]

I have heard more negative than positive feedback regarding Ross Campbell over the years. Lack of response to phone calls or emails, issues with people getting ripped off etc. However some people have had a good deal from him. I know him but have never dealt with him personally. Suggest you tread carefully when dealing with him.
And don’t tell me you have sold your MX5 Roger?

Off subject. A friend of mine has just landed one of the rare MK2 coupes. They only ever made 147 and they are as rare as hens teeth! (And increasing in value at a great rate!)

I had dealings with him, and while it wasn't glowingly positive, it wasn't negative either. He's a hard dealer, (that was my experience) but his advice was gold. Like all specialists, they do have you in a bit of a tight place as they hold most of the cards. Definitely communications were an issue. to be fair, it was when he was moving from Hamilton to the Bay of Empty.

[Roger Dowding]

I had dealings with him, and while it wasn't glowingly positive, it wasn't negative either. He's a hard dealer, (that was my experience) but his advice was gold. Like all specialists, they do have you in a bit of a tight place as they hold most of the cards. Definitely communications were an issue. to be fair, it was when he was moving from Hamilton to the Bay of Empty.

Thought is was the Bay of Much .. There are certainly plenty [ Much ] of Motoring Specialists in the Classic arena in the B o Plenty..

[Oldfart]

Empty of Bay Park and race circuits, and even a number of hill climbs and grass track gone, (or is Taupo in the BOP? :)

[Roger Dowding]

Empty of Bay Park and race circuits, and even a number of hill climbs and grass track gone, (or is Taupo in the BOP? :)

Rhys re ; " or is Taupo in the BOP? " : depends on your knowledge of Geography .. only about 2 hours from here so Yes !!
Agree sad about Baypark as Californians are about Riverside, and we think Speedway at Western Springs Auckland is going too !! B*gg#r .. as they say at Toy*t# .. :cool:

[Oldfart]

The Speedway at Western Springs has made it to the mainstream media here in the UK with almost all comment being along the lines of "How stupid is that, been there for years, what has happened to Heritage issues in NZ?". May as well tear down the Auckland Museum for housing development.

[Roger Dowding]

The Speedway at Western Springs has made it to the mainstream media here in the UK with almost all comment being along the lines of "How stupid is that, been there for years, what has happened to Heritage issues in NZ?". May as well tear down the Auckland Museum for housing development.

Rhys, totally agree, over 20 or so years ago they " The Council " were going to bow to pressure from the new NIMBY's who had just moved into the area, to close Western Springs instead there were noise and number of events and time curfew imposed.
As you well know at Western Springs you have cars and bikes racing and Lions Roaring - close down the Zoo, and what about the Duck Quacks - bad state of affairs - not forgetting those Rattly Old Trams at Motat, in the day I know.
Hope they those NIMBY's enjoy the concerts !! ROCK ON ..

[Roger Dowding]

Would love see the car

Growler Re ; And don’t tell me you have sold your MX5 Roger. NO...
Car is in Auckland and I now live in the Bay of Plenty, but have a family garage I leave it in here in the big smoke where I am at the moment, so off for a warrant, in fact had a short drive today with a WoF that expired a week or so ago.

I found another photo of it today, looking a bit tired !!
55003

Hope it will be at Caffeine and Classics at the end of the month Wof willing ..

Update :
Wof was unwilling so work to do,Will go to C and C anyway as issues are minor but expensive ..

[Growler]

Would love see the car...

Here is the actual car;

http://i68.tinypic.com/29moe8y.jpg

[Kevin Hirst]

Update :
Wof was unwilling so work to do,Will go to C and C anyway as issues are minor but expensive ..

Roger, what do you need,I have some surpluss part's you can have, may give me an excuse to go to C & C with bosses MX for a run

[Roger Dowding]

Roger, what do you need,I have some surpluss part's you can have, may give me an excuse to go to C & C with bosses MX for a run

Kevin, thanks for the offer, Left front shock absorber is leaking, and they wanted to replace the pair - second hand ones would be fine
Right rear swaybar link the bush is broken. the WoF place said just needs the new bush kit.

C and C is good, would like to catch up !!. Will PM my mobile number, Cheers
Roger Dowding

[Kevin Hirst]

Kevin, thanks for the offer, Left front shock absorber is leaking, and they wanted to replace the pair - second hand ones would be fine
Right rear swaybar link the bush is broken. the WoF place said just needs the new bush kit.

C and C is good, would like to catch up !!. Will PM my mobile number, Cheers
Roger Dowding

Roger, sorry, can't find PM I have not got shock or link among part's only steering bits, will catch up at C&C MX mart will have the bit's you need, if you need somebody to fit them for you Ican do that with pleasure.my contacf no is 094314889

[Roger Dowding]

Roger, sorry, can't find PM I have not got shock or link among part's only steering bits, will catch up at C&C MX mart will have the bit's you need, if you need somebody to fit them for you Ican do that with pleasure.my contacf no is 094314889

Kevin, thanks you so much will talk at C and C my Email " racerrog47@gmail.com ".
Will check out Ross Campbell, will be back in Omokoroa B of P, in August and probably back in Auckland where the car is for the moment in September..
Cheers

Roger

[Growler]

There is a closed Facebook group called NZ MX5's. There are about 4,000 members and you can buy a lot of second hand parts through there.

[Roger Dowding]

There is a closed Facebook group called NZ MX5's. There are about 4,000 members and you can buy a lot of second hand parts through there.

Thanks Growler, must start looking .
Roger D

[Roger Dowding]

There is a closed Facebook group called NZ MX5's. There are about 4,000 members and you can buy a lot of second hand parts through there.

Growler, Hi again, have looked at the group and also sent and got a response from Ross at MX5 Mart he has some of what I need just sorting things out at the moment.
Appreciate the assistance from you Kevin and others

Cheers

Roger

[Growler]

Growler, Hi again, have looked at the group and also sent and got a response from Ross at MX5 Mart he has some of what I need just sorting things out at the moment.
Appreciate the assistance from you Kevin and others

Cheers

Roger

Good to hear!

[Roger Dowding]

There will be at least two of them - my note on Austin Healey's thread !

Kevin will have a silver one and as he said " bugger the weather "

Agree Kevin and the good news the BRG MX5 and Rays BRG MGF will be too !! and yes Bugger the weather I got the warrant, so no sneaking down the road, just got the car back this afternoon.
Will be good to meet, and the same with Ray, have tried several times to catch ERC, at C and C 3 times , and Chelsea Hillclimb, usually I was leaving just as he was arriving. Cheers Guys..

[Roger Dowding]

Same floor-pan suspension and structure - different engine and body style - has style.
Saw an Abarth one the other day, this is a photo from Mark Pascoe in the UK of one at a Car Show at Watford recently.
I like it would swap my scruffy 1991 limited edition [ V - Special in Mazdaspeak ] for one .. probably dreaming !!
Found, as in hidden not lost, the Genuine Floor-mats for my car the other - hadn't been seen for many years, now to find the Tonneau Cover and the Wind-blocker - been in a Vinyl Bag that a Mate made me 18 or so years ago they must be somewhere !!

55680

[Roger Dowding]

Thanks Roger the Silver one GRA3M3 is my one. 1998 205,000kms 1600cc Auto Graeme Banks

Missed seeing you at C and C but now have contact details, as mentioned may not be there again until November, back to the bay of Much on Wednesday then short visits in the middle of the months Sept and Oct
- Did you the car sell ?? I Did catch up with ERC [ Ray ]and Kevin H, which was good.
Cheers
Roger D

[Roger Dowding]

Graeme Banks car - is for sale - we didn't meet this time " GRA3M3 "
56138

Kevin Hirst and his wife's car " The Boss' Car "
56139

The " Boss " hiding in the Car -
56140

Another NA
56141

NC and an NB
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UN7284 hiding with some big stuff - Bl**dy Australians too !!
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There were a couple of others !!

[Roger Dowding]

NC with a nose job -More Aston MARTIN and MASERATI I think.
56144

56145

A 2007 Model according to Carjam

[Roger Dowding]

Whangamata on Sunday - middle of the day.

56834

and not only a Mazda but a

56835

and a ..

56836

56837

A lot quieter than at " Beach Hop " .

[Roger Dowding]

My car came with many genuine V-Special Eunos Roadster extras: That had been missing for a while.
- " V-Special " logo Floor Mats, rediscovered a couple of months ago.
- Half Tonneau - fitted behind the seats to hide the soft -top - among the missing
- " Eunos Roadster " logoed Windblocker


The Car as photoed a few years ago

58103

The Windblocker which has been in hiding for several years - now recently discovered.

58102

Still on the hunt for the Tonneau !! - Must be somewhere.

As an aside - don't think BRG [ Neo Green ] MX5 will make C and C in November - some other things getting in the way .. Damnit !!

[Growler]

People are starting to sell them on Facebook. In fact someone recently was selling a complete tan interior that looked in good condition.

[Roger Dowding]

People are starting to sell them on Facebook. In fact someone recently was selling a complete tan interior that looked in good condition.

Growler, good to know, I keep a bit of an eye out, as my doorcards and drivers seat are very scruffy, but it is a matter of how much to spend - just keeping it on the road at the moment is enough - waiting for that lucky ticket !!

[Growler]

Growler, good to know, I keep a bit of an eye out, as my doorcards and drivers seat are very scruffy, but it is a matter of how much to spend - just keeping it on the road at the moment is enough - waiting for that lucky ticket !!

Prices for interior stuff is reasonably cheap at the moment. Things like the hardtop, 6 speed gearboxes, factory LSD's and 1800 engines from the Mark 2 are starting to skyrocket however.

[Roger Dowding]

from a UK site to NZ MX5 facebook page to here .. really ???

58744

58745

[Growler]

I believe that was a rendering and not real.

[bill hollingsworth]

A great use for an MX5. https://youtu.be/nCakWaTK0Xk

[Growler]

Yeah...seen this before. Don't know what stage it is at the moment. Seems like a lot of work though!

[Roger Dowding]

My MX5 [ Eunos Roadster ] sitting with Kevin Hirst Toyota Celica, he left their MX5 at home " The Boss "may have needed it.

60453

In the same row were the Austin and BMC/BL boys ;

60455

60454

Interestingly-Yesterday the - 10th February 2019 was the 30th Anniversary of the Launch of the MX5 / Miata / Eunos Roadster NA model in 1989.

There was a gathering of NA MX5's, and later models at Mount Panorama on the weekend.
Wayne Watkins was there and took this photo; 200 cars were there, here are the 1989 ones

60456

Hopefully more photos to follow - unsure if any other Clubs had events .

[Roger Dowding]

30th Anniversary of the Launch of the NA MX5 10 February 1989- Australian celebration 10 February 2019 at Bathurst.
Wayne Watkin provided these shots - no doubt more will emerge of the Meeting at Bathurst - 200 MX5's attended.

Line up at the summit ;
60476

McPhilamy Park - Skyline
60477

Wayne on Pit Straight
60478

Bathurst the Track ;
60479

[Oldfart]

Sad to see how they rust so badly here in the UK. I as thinking of one for a fun car. Curborough sprint track is only 7 miles away.

[Roger Dowding]

A Link on Flikr - with photos and videos of the Bathurst Celebration. by Andrew Edgar

" https://www.flickr.com/photos/andrew_edgar/sets/72157676380062797/ "

A very fine NSW Day by the looks - thanks to Wayne Watkins from the NSW MX5 Club for the link.

Would have been good to drive Mount Panorama even if at Road Legal speed - an item off many a " Bucket List "I would think.

This thread was started on the 28th Anniversary of the NA ... and the article about being able to get the car rebuilt in Japan by Mazda ..

[Kevin Hirst]

Sad to see how they rust so badly here in the UK. I as thinking of one for a fun car. Curborough sprint track is only 7 miles away.

There was a 1992 model at Waipu car show on sunday with v8 toyota conversion, not much room for anything else under hood though.

[Growler]

There was a 1992 model at Waipu car show on sunday with v8 toyota conversion, not much room for anything else under hood though.

Was this the White one?
I did see an NC (Mark 3) with a 6.2 litre Corvette motor stuffed inside over the weekend...

[Kevin Hirst]

Was this the White one?
I did see an NC (Mark 3) with a 6.2 litre Corvette motor stuffed inside over the weekend...

No, it was a gold MK 2 , lovely conversion job.

[Growler]

No, it was a gold MK 2 , lovely conversion job.

Must be a 1998 model then being a MK2. I did know of another one in Auckland with a Lexus V8 but haven't seen it in a while...

[Roger Dowding]

In Auckland a couple of weeks back and UN7284 wouldn't go !!. So I left it for next trip up.
My son had a look at it yesterday and took a couple of photos !!

Turns out had water around the fuel filler and - presume in the fuel but in the process of trying to start it did two things
#1 flattened the battery
#2 broke the accelerator cable mount bracket - so now it doesn't return.

some images of the problems fuel and pedal.

The fuel filler - when opened

62881

My accelerator pedal and bracket - part of the brake pedal bracket too !!

62882

What the real bracket should look like - image from a UK site for sale
62883

Before I check out MX5 Mart or other MX5 parts places - have any of you guys got one of these spare and how much $$$.

Let me know !

[Roger Dowding]

In Auckland a couple of weeks back and UN7284 wouldn't go !!. So I left it for next trip up.
My son had a look at it yesterday and took a couple of photos !!

Turns out had water around the fuel filler and - presume in the fuel but in the process of trying to start it did two things
#1 flattened the battery
#2 broke the accelerator cable mount bracket - so now it doesn't return.

some images of the problems fuel and pedal.

The fuel filler - when opened

62881

My accelerator pedal and bracket - part of the brake pedal bracket too !!

62882

What the real bracket should look like - image from a UK site for sale
62883

Before I check out MX5 Mart or other MX5 parts places - have any of you guys got one of these spare and how much $$$.

Let me know !

Have found out that The " MX5 Mart " in Tauranga is closing at the end of September ..

[Peter M]

A good source of MX5 NA and NB parts in Auckland, I have bought a few bits and pieces for my kit car project from him.
Michael Bullivant phone 021 2119115 ( he advertises some parts on Trade Me)
Another source of MX5 parts has also closed in New Plymouth.

[Roger Dowding]

A good source of MX5 NA and NB parts in Auckland, I have bought a few bits and pieces for my kit car project from him.
Michael Bullivant phone 021 2119115 ( he advertises some parts on Trade Me)
Another source of MX5 parts has also closed in New Plymouth.

Peter M,

Thanks for that.

PS did you try to phone me the other day - oops missed the call,will have a chat soon..

Cheers

Roger

PS how is the project - need to see some photo's - put on this thread as MX5 based !!

[Roger Dowding]

Been talking [ in a manner of speaking ] on the " NZ MX5 "Fb forum.. seems the issue is becoming more common - as the cars get older ..

62952

Several guys have removed the bracket and pedal[s] welded to the bracket and then refitted it with a block of wood behind.
Concern would be about WoF standard.. so would need to be tidy [ not like this one ] I would think !!

62953

and in the " Little Corner "..
Meanwhile - Hotwheels have come out with this - in Blue [ Red is available too !! - waiting for Neo / BR Green..
Splashed out and bought 3 of the Blue ..

62955

62956

This is a repainted version a guy has done already - for a Mate who has a BRG car.

62954

[Roger Dowding]

30th Anniversary meetings have been held around the Globe - and in the current [ in New Zealand issue ] of one of the English Magazines " Classic and Sports Car " is a write up on the cars.

Recently a low kilometer [ 35,000 ] early 1990's Limited Edition [the BRG " V - Special " ones with tan ( leather seats ) and black interior ] sold for $18,000 in NZ and there is a 1992 with 115,000km for sale at $7000 - also a BRG but I think an import Eunos Roadster not an NZ new MX5 ..

Mine at 230,000km and in need of work can't be worth quite that much = $7000.
Seen here in 2003 approx with only around 76,000 km on the Odometer ..

64277

in Monochrome - same photo;

64278


" Year: 1991
Make: MAZDA
Model: EUNOS
Colour: Green
Submodel: ROADSTER
Body Style: Convertible
VIN: 7A8C11D0796148784
Plate: UN7284
Engine No: UNKNOWN
Chassis: NA6CE-148784 "

and 16000 views at this moment.

PS got a Red Hotwheels

[John McKechnie]

My son has just bought a rampant pulsating red MX5 Convertible...................and its a manual..............theres hope Junior Mckechnie may drive Blue or the Monaro............once hes learnt how to use a clutch........

[Roger Dowding]

Purchased my copy today - went to Paper Plus at Bethlehem - nothing, A huge shop that has about 6 Car magazines, had to pop into the Countdown Supermarket and there it was.
Paper Plus in Birkenhead is far superior in selection as is Paper Plus at Papamoa

Seven page article on the cars and a Timeline
then
Article [ six pages ] on an Italian MX5 enthusiast who has 45 of them from NA to ND and a few unusual ones - One that appeals has AH Frog-eye type front lights and another what looks to be '50's Alfa style sports car nose with lights on the front corners - a bit like my terrible LHD Sprite from all those years ago the Un-Frog-eye'd Frog-eye.
Finally -
The back page is about an ND latest series MX5 .. a " Future Classic " !

64333

Photo is on a very standard NA in White
[ 114 bhp from the original 1598 motor - love that bhp, the old power measure ]
An RS Limited in Blue
[ not really heard of those before with 128 bhp from the 1839 cc motor ]
and finally
A turbocharger Le Mans - same paint scheme as the Mazda raced there 767/787's at Le Mans
[ 150 bhp 1839 cc motor ]

Sticker price for the Magazine GBP5.70 was $14.90 in NZ and I see on the C and S C website USD7.77 ..

MX5 enthusiasts - enjoy !!

[Roger Dowding]

Got the Camera back, Got another MX5 / Miata 1990 NA model - by JDM Tuners - part of the Jada models group- no scale mentioned on the box or on the car but their website says 1;24, however at about 195 mm long seems more like 1;20 and is almost as big as my 1;18 by Kyosho in BRG [ Neo Green ] the same as my real car.

64458

The Kyosho 1;18 scale

64459

The whole lot of the NA's from 1;18 down to Hotwheels at 1;64 ish..

64460

The smaller scale ones, 1;43 s by MMP [ Miniature Model Planners] and the small ones are Hotwheels.
Managed to find a Red one after getting three in blue.
The Hot wheels are 1991 models like mine, the green one in 1;43 is a 1996 NA with BBS wheels, the Red one undated.

64461

Tucked away in boxes still are a current model ND in blue by Hotwheels and an NB in 1;87 scale, as well as an NB in 1;43.

[Roger Dowding]

with the " 30th Anniversary of the Launch of the NA MX5 " the magazine articles keep coming.
This is the December edition of New Zealand Classic Car - article by John McDonald - his photo of the first two pages.

The story of three series of New Zealand release Special Editions of the MX5 NA 1989 - 1997.
My 1;43 scale model NA MX5 Special Edition in Neo Green features BBS wheels too - a 1996 rendition of the car.

64605

excuse the spelling of John's name on the photo .. in our family the name - middle name for my father and brother was spelt .. Macdonald.. - have re-edited..

[Roger Dowding]

Have been sent a series of photos and some details of this rather special modified NA MX5.

Thanks to the owner Guy Pickering and photos from John McDonald. Sent by Guy the owner.

Just one photo to start - details and more to follow;

64987

[Roger Dowding]

Guy Pickering is the owner / builder - modifier. John McDonald photos.

65039

65040

65041
Tonneau by " Millen Motorsport " of NZ USA fame .. Had seen those elsewhere - very smart.

Under the bonnet - a supercharger - details to follow ;
65042

[Roger Dowding]

Some details of the cars modifications from Guy Pickering ;
Photos John McDonald and Guy Pickering.

" BACKGROUND It’s a 27kms ‘90 Classic Red/Tan.
Was bought from Paul Fahey Mazda in St Heliers in Nov 1990.
All mods done 90/91: the first supercharged MX5 in NZ, originally had a Jackson Racing SC (now a Mini Cooper S R53 M45 SC).
Engine build by Glenn Munroe of Rotary Power in Glenfield.
Also has SSR GP-Theta 16s, every Racing Beat performance and aesthetic mod, Koni suspension, Rod Millen Motorsport tonneau "

65085

65086

65087

Views of the Engine and Supercharger -Guy Pickering

65088

65089

A bit different to this under the bonnet .. another NA my 1991 V-Spec Eunos Roadster. only mod a POD Filter

65090

[Roger Dowding]

Old photos 1997 - the wheels- change from plastic centre caps to no caps and Chrome Lug/wheel nuts.

Car different these days an on 15 inch Cream coloured Prodrive Wheels.

65372

[chaindrive]

Had a 90 NA. Lowered and fitted with a full handling package. ONLY car I have regretted selling !!

[Roger Dowding]

A good source of MX5 NA and NB parts in Auckland, I have bought a few bits and pieces for my kit car project from him.
Michael Bullivant phone 021 2119115 ( he advertises some parts on Trade Me)
Another source of MX5 parts has also closed in New Plymouth.

Peter M, mate - finally got in touch with Michael - actually went through a Facebook page used the Email and it was him
" mx5partsnz@yahoo.com " and back he came with a good result, the parts and a reasonable price.

So get the bits soon then have to organise the repair
It will need a new warrant and know a couple more things need looking at - but first get it driveable.

and Peter - we still need a couple of photos of your project - can sort that out if you can E-mail or Fb messenger me any you have can upload and post for you - would be good for this TRS page.

PS - owe you a phone call.

Cheers Mate

Cheers and Thanks again,
Roger

[Roger Dowding]

Car is run at Lakeside and other tracks by Brian Ferrabee - the Announcer at Lakeside and he is involved in supporting young drivers too.
An ex-pat Kiwi as evidenced by the stickers on the car

65591

65592

Photos by John Climo - another ex-pat Kiwi with a big interest in Motorsport - was hoping to catch up with them during May 2020, in Queensland at Lakeside but our trip is now postponed.

Should however give me some time to install this - well will need some help by a young mechanic I think !!
Then need to check a few more things as car has sat for many months.

65593

[Kevin Hirst]

Car is run at Lakeside and other tracks by Brian Ferrabee - the Announcer at Lakeside and he is involved in supporting young drivers too.
An ex-pat Kiwi as evidenced by the stickers on the car

65591

65592

Photos by John Climo - another ex-pat Kiwi with a big interest in Motorsport - was hoping to catch up with them during May 2020, in Queensland at Lakeside but our trip is now postponed.

Should however give me some time to install this - well will need some help by a young mechanic I think !!
Then need to check a few more things as car has sat for many months.

65593
Send it up north young man

[Growler]

I haven't visited this forum in quite a while!

The matchbox cars: there is a green one available but I believe its a special edition from the States.
https://play.hotwheels.com/en-us/collection/detail/91-mazda-mx-5-miata?carId=GHG48

I have the blue and red, plus about 3 - 4 others when they were first released in the early 90's.
I also have plastic kits on all 4 models (NA, NB, NC and ND), plus the ND RF version is coming out soon.
Oh...and both the NA and ND remote control cars that were released by Tamiya.

With regards to the red MK1 MX5 that Guy Pickering owns, it was originally owned and built by Ray Smith which he bought new in NZ. The original supercharger was a Greddy kit from Japan but that was taken off the car some years ago (And where it is now nobody knows!).
Ray also owned a yellow supercharged one but he rolled it playing silly buggers one day.

[Roger Dowding]

I haven't visited this forum in quite a while!

The matchbox cars: there is a green one available but I believe its a special edition from the States.
https://play.hotwheels.com/en-us/collection/detail/91-mazda-mx-5-miata?carId=GHG48

I have the blue and red, plus about 3 - 4 others when they were first released in the early 90's.
I also have plastic kits on all 4 models (NA, NB, NC and ND), plus the ND RF version is coming out soon.
Oh...and both the NA and ND remote control cars that were released by Tamiya.

With regards to the red MK1 MX5 that Guy Pickering owns, it was originally owned and built by Ray Smith which he bought new in NZ. The original supercharger was a Greddy kit from Japan but that was taken off the car some years ago (And where it is now nobody knows!).
Ray also owned a yellow supercharged one but he rolled it playing silly buggers one day.

Great collection " Growler " and thanks for the notes on Guy's car

Still looking for the Green Hotwheels .. may have to paint a Blue one ..
Have a couple of the NA 1;24 kits - never been made and one never opened

[Roger Dowding]

Send it up north young man

Kevin,
Kind thought Mate,
- but with this Covid - thing, both us and the car are staying put.
Intended coming to Auckland and bringing the Assembly up - but now on Hold.

A bit later in the year - will get it towed as currently sitting on a street - not the best idea.

Cheers
Roger

[Roger Dowding]

Great collection " Growler " and thanks for the notes on Guy's car

Still looking for the Green Hotwheels .. may have to paint a Blue one ..
Have a couple of the NA 1;24 kits - never been made and one never opened

- The Green one - a 2020 issue - but seems USA only - keep looking for it- and want another Red one and a Blue too !! to keep
" Mint and Boxed "..

65625

For some reason the photo/image had a white background but on resizing from 374kb as a Png image to this as a Jpg - it changed to black ??

[Growler]

Kevin,
Kind thought Mate,
- but with this Covid - thing, both us and the car are staying put.
Intended coming to Auckland and bringing the Assembly up - but now on Hold.

A bit later in the year - will get it towed as currently sitting on a street - not the best idea.

Cheers
Roger

I'd make sure it was secure. Stealing MX5's seems to be on the increase...

[Growler]

Great collection " Growler " and thanks for the notes on Guy's car

Still looking for the Green Hotwheels .. may have to paint a Blue one ..
Have a couple of the NA 1;24 kits - never been made and one never opened
Yeah...I have lots of unopened kits. When I was younger I was collecting and building all of the Tamiya Group A Cars and JTTC Cars they released. Some are becoming quite valuable now...unless they decide to do a re-release!
I then built a real race car so all of that stopped.

[Roger Dowding]

Going through a box of photos from 1995 through to around 2004, mainly family, houses and holidays ..
In among them are photos from
- MX5 Track Day at Pukekohe in 2004 that I competed in - entered [ probably the more correct word as not competing ]
- NZ Targa Rally 2003 - taken out near Ardmore / Alfriston area -must try to read the Road Signs.
- 3 more from " Whenuapai Wings and Wheels " around 1999 - 2000
- 1;18 scale Mazda MX5 - Eunos Roadster - V-Special in Neo ( BRG ) Green that was given to me on my 50th Birthday in September 1997.

A bit of scanning and sorting to do.

Just noticed the view 19947 .. if you go 19/9/47 - that is me - an Omen or ?? , that is where the usual edit of ### 47 come from !

[Roger Dowding]

From the archive of recently rediscovered photos.
Attended the 2004 MX5 Club NZ Track day at Pukekohe in UN7284.
Only took a few photos and here they are.
In the middle of the group - Hard Top on .
65771

UN7284 closest !!

65772

65773

65774

65775

quality of the photos not good - think the camera either had a bad battery or the lenses were very dirty - according to the Photo processors - camera stopped getting used shortly after.

This is the only photo of UN7284 on track - taken by Nigel Every - who I worked with as well as were both in the NZ MX5 Club at the time. [ posted before but relates to this post ]

65776

" Growler " may know the other cars in the photos..
Took a few photos of engines too - will be in a future post.

Also have collected a few photos of the " Bryant Racing " MX5 - that has been at Leadfoot and other places / races !

[Roger Dowding]

Modified NA - with Turbo ? or Super ? -Charger.
Lots of Chrome too !

65791

NB with Supercharger from the side and the front - impressive.

65792

65793


UN7284 an NA as standard.

65794

Later in 2010 with POD Filter - at that time it got 15 inch wheels and lowered suspension too !
Photo from 2017
65795

[Roger Dowding]

Photos from the archives - 1997 when I was given this model a 1;18 Scale Kyosho Model - complete with Hardtop.
My real car purchased in 1996 - had to wait almost 12 months to get a Hardtop and it was Black.

65797

65798

65799

65800

65801

65802

The Model is in better condition these days than the real Car.

[Roger Dowding]

Photos from Bryants own Facebook page - photos as credited and an article from the " Taupo Times ".

65846

65847

65848

65849

The article

65851

Had trouble with the Upload ..

[Roger Dowding]

Funny things happening on TRS today - the above post Bryant Motorsport MX5 - I gave it a Title and put the 5 images - only 4 images attached and the Title Dropped Off . - have edited to add the 5th image the article, but need to re-ad the Title.

A Big oops not sure if by me or the site.

And now a few minutes later the first 4 photos have gone - you need to click on them [ numbers in the brackets ] in the post

13 April the 4 photos are not there !! Grrr ..

[Growler]

" Growler " may know the other cars in the photos..
Took a few photos of engines too - will be in a future post.


Some of the cars look familiar but it was a long time ago. I may have been running the day but not sure.
I think the Orange Supercharged NB is still around and now owned by Clive Granger.
When the Greedy Supercharger kit was released no one wanted it as it only added around 50hp. Now they are rare as hens teeth and worth a bit of money.

[Roger Dowding]

Yep the MX5 is going, with the repair done and a warrant - just - a couple of things to do before the next one is due.
Driving OK, but because we got a bit of water in the fuel fluffs a bit - mechanic says maybe use some 98 Octane and add some injector cleaner - so will do that - Just waiting for the Bill $$$.

It will be at Caffeine and Classics at Smales on 28th June.
Understand that ERC Ray Green , Geebeez Graeme Banks, and a couple of others will be there too

Thanks again Kevin for your offer, may take you up on some further work in the future - hope to see you at C and C too !!, and Andy Thorp too !!.

Cheers

and a photo - this is before - has new Spark Plug Leads that i haven't looked at yet - maybe not BLUE

66686

Roger

[Kevin Hirst]

[QUOTE=Roger Dowding;73115]Yep the MX5 is going, with the repair done and a warrant - just - a couple of things to do before the next one is due.
Driving OK, but because we got a bit of water in the fuel fluffs a bit - mechanic says maybe use some 98 Octane and add some injector cleaner - so will do that - Just waiting for the Bill $$$.

It will be at Caffeine and Classics at Smales on 28th June.
Understand that ERC Ray Green , Geebeez Graeme Banks, and a couple of others will be there too

Thanks again Kevin for your offer, may take you up on some further work in the future - hope to see you at C and C too !!, and Andy Thorp too !!.

Cheers

and a photo - this is before - has new Spark Plug Leads that i haven't looked at yet - maybe not BLUE

66686
Yes , will be there, will be bringing A95 for it's first out of town run after wof & reg. still a work in progress but will be using it while updating it, looking for motor parts soon as some compression's not too flash, need 3ltr block have supercharger waiting on sidelines, also Roger put some meths in tank as it absorbes water which then mixes in with petrol

[Roger Dowding]

Kevin,

Re " also Roger put some meths in tank as it absorbs water which then mixes in with petrol "
Was told that, by the Mechanic they drained the old fuel but didn't remove and flush the tank [ too long a job ] it is running better and I have some Meths in Auckland where the car is so will do so
See you there will be great to see the A95 - will have camera in hand
Cheers
Roger

So You, me, Ray Green, Graeme Banks should all be there !!

[Kevin Hirst]

Kevin,

Re " also Roger put some meths in tank as it absorbs water which then mixes in with petrol "
Was told that, by the Mechanic they drained the old fuel but didn't remove and flush the tank [ too long a job ] it is running better and I have some Meths in Auckland where the car is so will do so
See you there will be great to see the A95 - will have camera in hand
Cheers
Roger

So You, me, Ray Green, Graeme Banks should all be there !!

We are looking forward to it, We should be easy to find as not a lot of A95's around & only one in this green, see you there

[Milan Fistonic]

"We are looking forward to it, We should be easy to find as not a lot of A95's around & only one in this green, see you there"


Green like this one?

66700

[ERC]

Looking forward to C & C - rain or shine, it will be good to get back to some normality and giving the camera a bit of exercise. With Goodwood cancelled, it is going to be a very thin year for new photographs.

[Kevin Hirst]

"We are looking forward to it, We should be easy to find as not a lot of A95's around & only one in this green, see you there"


Green like this one?

66700

No, used to be,is now more like the green in the side flash but now has white flash & roof , old rusty & bent bumpers have now been incoorporated into body contours

[Roger Dowding]

No, used to be,is now more like the green in the side flash but now has white flash & roof , old rusty & bent bumpers have now been incoorporated into body contours

Will be easy to find then Kev.!!.
John Vevers from the Austin 3 Litre Club will/should be there, he will be very interested.
Back in the mid 70's a few of us in the Austin Healey Club knew a guy with the pre-Farina A95 but a wagon - we contemplated buying it in shares to use to tow a trailer with our Sprites on -
The ultimate for a BMC Team to have.
- Usual story though Good Ideas and very little money .. 50 years on life is a bit like that again ..
Tatty MX5 will be pleased to see the car too and as ERC says lots of camera with photos to be taken as a paucity of events at the moment !!
Cheers Guys.

[Roger Dowding]

Kev, not an MX5, but this is for you . to go with Milan's pic of the green one ..

" Austin A95 Bathurst 1966 as driven by Graham Tribe and me (John Bruce Moxon) " John Moxon archives.

66703

Great shot, Memories of days gone

An Austin Healey in Saloon form - same engine different chassis/body = almost the same !!

[John H]

Kev, not an MX5, but this is for you . to go with Milan's pic of the green one ..

" Austin A95 Bathurst 1966 as driven by Graham Tribe and me (John Bruce Moxon) " John Moxon archives.

66703

Great shot, Memories of days gone

thanks did that have a dry sump?

[Roger Dowding]

thanks did that have a dry sump?

John H, do not know but that little oil cooler - is a clue. Can ask a question on the Fb group I belong to that I got it from - would like to see more photos too !!
Cheers

Roger

[Roger Dowding]

thanks did that have a dry sump?

Further reply -just found this out.
The picture " Lance Rutting pic now owned by Auto Pics. "

This about the engine from John Moxon.

" Motor was 2.6ltr with a Waggot modified head and cam (40/80) and 3 x 2 in SUs.
Clocked 120mph that year but had almost no brakes after one lap. A true beast. "

[Kevin Hirst]

Further reply -just found this out.
The picture " Lance Rutting pic now owned by Auto Pics. "

This about the engine from John Moxon.

" Motor was 2.6ltr with a Waggot modified head and cam (40/80) and 3 x 2 in SUs.
Clocked 120mph that year but had almost no brakes after one lap. A true beast. "

Sounds like simmilar head job to what I did with my A90 back in the sixtie's, I used 3 of the original A90 zenith carbs, a racer brown american cam grind by those famous NZ camgrinders Mundell & slaughter but block bored out to 2912cc, went pretty well

[Roger Dowding]

Kevin,

Re " also Roger put some meths in tank as it absorbs water which then mixes in with petrol "
Was told that, by the Mechanic they drained the old fuel but didn't remove and flush the tank [ too long a job ] it is running better and I have some Meths in Auckland where the car is so will do so
See you there will be great to see the A95 - will have camera in hand
Cheers
Roger

So You, me, Ray Green, Graeme Banks should all be there !!

Re the meths, am taking a new bottle from home as the stuff in Auckland, my late Uncles would be many years old.

Will chat on the Sunday 28th -
but quick question ? " put some meths in tank " - approximately how much ?? 250 ml or more ???

Cheers Guys
Roger

[Kevin Hirst]

Re the meths, am taking a new bottle from home as the stuff in Auckland, my late Uncles would be many years old.

Will chat on the Sunday 28th -
but quick question ? " put some meths in tank " - approximately how much ?? 250 ml or more ???

Cheers Guys
Roger

Kinda depends on how much water, I would go for 500ml, you need plenty of petrol in tank to soak up meths though.

[Roger Dowding]

Kinda depends on how much water, I would go for 500ml, you need plenty of petrol in tank to soak up meths though.

Great, Kevin, a job for tomorrow buy some Meths and a few more litres of fuel..
Cheers

[Allan]

If you filter the left overs through a loaf of bread it's apparently quite drinkable.

[Roger Dowding]

If you filter the left overs through a loaf of bread it's apparently quite drinkable.

The " Meths " yes Allan, never tried it though...

[Roger Dowding]

At C and C, and with me was Kevin Hirst and Ray Green .. I left my lights on for a while and Ray ERC noticed, I did a bit later.
Before I get my pics done here is Ray's photo - with the lights on.
Cheers Guys - great to see you and Jayne was with Kevin too.
There were three MX5's a Red a Blue and this one .. Neo [ BRG ] Green - well was in 1991 - a poor repaint in 1999 - minor damage by a tree caused a partial respray - using a BW pic so you can't see the poor paint

66788

[Roger Dowding]

Red Blue and Green were represented for the MX5's

Red
66903

66904

Blue
66905

66906

and my Green [faded Neo - BR green] machine

66901

66902

[Roger Dowding]

There was another Red MX5 at " Caffeine and Classics " and I found another one just around the corner in Chatswood, on the road part between where I was staying and where ERC lives.
an early NA a 1990 model
Chassis number " NA6CE-113286 " Ex Japan Eunos Roadster
66949

In the 'hOOD, a 1996 1839 cc late model NA. an NZ New car.

66950

66951

with a Mate .. a 1991 1598 cc early NA
Chassis number " NA6CE-148784 "

66952

Main difference is the the rear valance around the number plate.
66953

[Roger Dowding]

Will be there, hopefully in UN7284 - Hasn't moved since mid-July but heading to Auckland tomorrow for the week, gives me a couple of days to make sure it is running OK.
Have my " Mazda " shirt and " MX5 Club " hat too !!

67986
Ray Green pic from the June event. in colour as taken.

See in the latest NZ Classic Car - out last week, an article on MX5's especially the NA first series.
They are holding their value now and as stated no longer considered a " hairdressers car " to quote Guy Pickering - whose Red car has featured on this thread - photos by John MacDonald who is also quoted in the article
The first couple of years qualify as a " Vintage Car " now and this one will in 2021.

[Kevin Hirst]

Will be there, hopefully in UN7284 - Hasn't moved since mid-July but heading to Auckland tomorrow for the week, gives me a couple of days to make sure it is running OK.
Have my " Mazda " shirt and " MX5 Club " hat too !!

67986
Ray Green pic from the June event. in colour as taken.

See in the latest NZ Classic Car - out last week, an article on MX5's especially the NA first series.
They are holding their value now and as stated no longer considered a " hairdressers car " to quote Guy Pickering - whose Red car has featured on this thread - photos by John MacDonald who is also quoted in the article
The first couple of years qualify as a " Vintage Car " now and this one will in 2021.

Will power down in austin

[Roger Dowding]

Will power down in austin

And you did. Kevin H,

ERC was there and Geebeez too - with what is thought to be the oldest MX5 in New Zealand, number 107 a 1989 model that has chassis # 100107.
His Rego is UN9667 so its registration in NZ was the same time as mine UN7284. September 1996
" Year: 1989
Make: MAZDA
Model: EUNOS
Colour: BLUE
Submodel: ROADSTER
Body Style: Convertible
VIN: 7A8C11D0796100107
Plate: UN9667
Engine No: UNKNOWN
Chassis: NA6CE-100107
Vehicle Type: Passenger Car/Van
Seats: 2
CC rating: 1,590cc
Fuel Type: Petrol
Assembly Type: Imported Built-Up
Country of Origin: Japan
Gross Vehicle Mass: 1,060kg
Vehicle Equipment Class: XMA
Industry Class: PRIVATE
Industry Model Code: E-NA6CE "
" Plates History

Plate Effective Date
UN9667 20-Sep-1996
Registration

Registration Status: Get CarJam Report
Plate: UN9667
Plate Type: Standard
Origin: Import from Japan
Used as: Private Passenger vehicle
Cause of Latest Registration: Used
NZ First Registration: 20-Sep-1996
NZ Last Registration: Get CarJam Report
Was Registered Overseas? Yes
Registered previously in: Japan
First Overseas Registration: 1989 "

They started the numbers at 100013 #100,000 to #100,012 were prototypes according to what Graeme " Geebeez " told me.
Graeme mentioned that he got the actual production date for the car through Mazda New Zealand - a very helpful guy gave him the details.
Must follow that up myself as the other methods of finding out using information from the NZ MX5 Club doesn't seem to work for second hand imports - the VIN does not equate to the NA6CE sequences. Others may know more.
There were about 8 or 9 MX5's mainly NA's two in BRG, two in Blue including #100107, some red and an NB in bronze..
Mine at Chassis #148784 is well down the list as a 1991 model.

Photo of Graeme's car to follow when I download my photos -

John B, was there too with his Mercedes 280SL - had a good catch up with him as well !!

No internet this time in Auckland, hence no posts -my phone is too hard to read on the TRS website.

[Roger Dowding]

Photos by Stuart Battersby - from the Vintage Car Club of New Zealand - he owns the Red MGB that is just past the Racing Sprite of Allan Horner from AHCCNZ in photo #3.

My own photos still to come.

68046
SD8636 was at the June event too - photo in a previous post

68047

The MGB Sprite Midget BMC group

68048

Stuart had put a post on the VCC's facebook page asking who would be there.
The Facebook page allows non members to participate - there is also a Members only FB page as well which is mainly for event notification.

[Roger Dowding]

Caffeine and Classics October 2020 - some photos

Geebeez MX5 the really early one No 107..from 1989 - Is it the oldest in New Zealand ? - was imported in September 1996. reg UN9667. Is badged at the rear Mazda MX5 but has the same tail panel [ number plate surround plastic panel as my Eunos Roadster from 1991 ]

68089

68090

A Tiger and UN7284

68091

Kevin Hirst the A95 wrong way around with a couple of Americans ..

68092

John B's [ SPR Man ] brought the Mercedes 350SL..

68093

John B with Hat talking to Kim who owns the WRC Lancia - road version

68094

Ray Green ERC was there too - has his Mini Cooper for sale .. was it amongst the Mini's Ray ?? or did you bring something else [ The MG Magnette was not there ! ]

Took around 60 -70 photos many more to come - but not sure which thread ??

[Roger Dowding]

Some cars seen before - the AC but others new to the events that I have been to in the last 3 and half years !

68109

68110

68111

68113

68112

[Roger Dowding]

More of the unusual, as in less seen these days vehicles.

68119

Another 50's car a Flying A - owned by Ron Hancock who had his Austin A95 Station Wagon at the June event.

68120

Nuffield - oops posted already and i have other photos of the car ..the photo now at the bottom of the post- when I tried to delete it -Operator Error #47


An American Falcon Coupe - very nice !

68122

The US Army were there too !! - the second Jeep has been at C and C before back in 2018 in my archives.

68123

Matra Jet 6,known as a Djet in France I believe.. and oops again posted already, sorry guys.. and they won't delete .. TRS grrr !!!

68124

[Milan Fistonic]

Mazdas competing at Hampton Downs in December 2018

68163
96 - Martin Sommerville

68162
266 - Peter O'Sullivan

68164
101 - Helen O'Sullivan

[Roger Dowding]

Thanks Milan, good to see them in action

[Roger Dowding]

It had been quiet for UN7284, the 1991 V Spec Mazda MX5 / Eunos Raodster - ex Japan in 1996 - around the same time that Geebeez car was registered - his is a 1989 model.

UN7284, has been off the road as warrantless for 12 months, Registration put on hold in June 2021 when the last WoF expired for six months and
then another Six Months ;.

In a burst of energy, well two bursts involving trips to Auckland;
#1, I took the car for a warrant in 23 May 2022 and it failed.
Leaking Brake Master Cylinder, blown headlight, for the FAIL.
Also comments, water leak at back of engine - which I knew about - and rear sway bar is making noises
- The rear sway bar was rebushed a couple of years ago - and has only done less than 200km since.
#2, Car went back to " Birkenhead Car Services " on 7th June to get the warrant repairs done, Master Cylinder and Headlight, and the Mechanic /Owner had a look and tested the water system - the hose is at the back of the engine and hidden under the manifolding / injection system - so hard to get at.
Warrant passed 13th June and Car now Registered again.
#3, Car going back to the mechanic on Monday for the water leak and a cam cover gasket as is losing a bit of oil.
Will discuss the sway bar bushes - as should be all OK, unless poorly repaired.

Three trips to Auckland in the space of 6 weeks.

Next jobs will be Repair to passenger side electric window and check the drivers as is slow, and later on repair to the drivers seat and a general tidy up of the bodywork - It is showing the " patina of age " and the results of a poorpaint job in 1999 - plus sitting outside for a few years.
A couple of recent short drives has the car going well, and looking at the market prices are rising for the early cars, especially in the South Island, and Southern North Island.

Will be keeping it and it is now in company of another two letter one number model - an MG3,
a 2021 build, 2022 Registered new car.

72711
2019 photo of the car at Caffeine and Classics.

72712
2022 photo of the New car at home

A guy has these plates - looks like brand new - they would go great on an MG MG3 -6..
Make the car look a bit Retro /Classic too .. or maybe put them on the MX5 -

72713

Very much into " Number Plates " as shown on the " Vintage Car " thread

[Roger Dowding]

Post #142
" Car going back to the mechanic on Monday for the water leak and a cam cover gasket as is losing a bit of oil.
Will discuss the sway bar bushes - as should be all OK, unless poorly repaired. "


Car now repaired - Water leak was a small T piece, and the sway bar bushes just needed lubricating, I understand.
Just need to go through the invoice. Pocket a bit lighter, but bill was fair.

Next work is largely cosmetic, although electric windows need attention again.
Then - repairs to seat leather and the soft top edge,then the top can be re-installed.

In company with the three Digit named Car the Daily Driver !!.


72795

MX5 Ododmeter showing 227596 when the warrant was issued on 13th June 2022. so done 1386 Km in 5 years.

[Roger Dowding]

In essence, a Lotus Elan with Japanese reliability: How the Mazda Miata NA beat the odds to resurrect the fun British roadster
By Daniel Strohl on Jul 17th, 2022 at 8:00 am

an article on Hemmings Motor News out today USA time - yesterday our time;

" The Mazda Miata—a.k.a. MX-5, a.k.a. Eunos Roadster—is no typical car compared to everything else on the road, and the inception of the first-generation Miata, the NA, is no typical origin story, so it makes sense that Graham Borrajo would tell that story in an atypical storyboard manner. And given the twists and turns that origin story took, the storyboard format—punctuated by renderings and photos of development mules—helps keep the tale straight and entertaining without sacrificing any part of the story. And for a little more fun, Borrajo took the time to enumerate every special edition, concept, and other unique take by Mazda on the Miata during its first decade. "

Go to " www.hemmings.com " to find the story - you may need to sign in but it is free and you can get a daily news feed on all sort of Automobile information.

Mazda Japan now provide full parts for the rebuild of the First series NA model MX5, and a rebuild service within Japan.
Article from 2017;

72835

[Roger Dowding]

Big decision made - I am selling the MX5 / Eunos Roadster - UN7284 after 27 years of ownership.
The car is a 1991 model - V- Special which was first Registered in New Zealand on 23rd September 1996. with 35,920 km on the odometer.
It has been in my ownership since then and now done 227,000 km.

In need of new Clutch Hydraulics and a few other faults.
Motor runs and drove well until December 2022.

If any one on TRS is interested, please PM me or comment here !!.
Full details available and car has been regularly serviced.

Has Hardtop and Soft-top and two sets of wheels
15 inch Pro-drive on the car
Full set of 14 inch " Daisy " wheels with old tyres.

A few of the photos - from 2017 to 2020.

75437
a Ray Green photo.

75438

75439

75440

75441

[Roger Dowding]

Advertised the car before last weekend and had two viewings, one on Saturday, interested but wanted to think about it.
A second person wanted to see it Wednesday - contacted on Sunday then rang me mid afternoon to see if could be viewed now.
at 4.30 the Buyer had a good look over the car and by 5;00 had arranged a deposit - Sold, just had to wait to collect it as needed a Tow Truck or a trailer.

This is how it left;
Hope to see it again as the buyer has offered for me to have a drive once fully roadworthy, mobile and tidied up.

75503

75504

75505

My Ninth Sports Car - am now " sportscarless " after 49 and half years. well since about March 1974.

Last drove it seriously 19 years ago - on track at Pukekohe with the MX5 Club March 2004

75506.