1997 Mazda Miata MX5
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TITLE: 2 – OWNER 1997 MAZDA MIATA
VIN: JM1NA353XV0724941
MILES: 44,456
OWNER MILES: 32,500
HISTORY: This Miata was purchased in 1998, and enjoyed as a “summer-only” driver by the owner for roughly 20 years. It was stored every winter at our facility, and serviced regularly. It has not been driven much for the last few years and the owner has decided to sell it. Significant service during their ownership includes replacing the timing belt, replacing the A.C. compressor, and replacing the plastic rear window.
MODIFICATIONS: SenDel 14” Alloy Wheels; Panasonic AM/FM/CD Stereo; Custom Speakers; Leather Arm Rest Pad; Moss Motors Deck Lid Spoiler; Moss Motors Mud Guards; “Miata” Oil Filler Cap; Aftermarket Console Dual Cup Holder; Visors Removed & Blanking Plates Installed.
ISSUES/PROBLEMS: Tires are 14 years old and should be replaced. The deck lid spring is not strong enough to hold the deck lid open with the extra weight of the spoiler (a prop rod is included).
RUST: No rust, previously undercoated.
SERVICE RECORDS: All service records since 1998.
LAST SERVICE: An oil/filter service, a new battery, and new spark plugs were installed recently in preparation for sale.
PAINT/BODY: Very nice Classic Red paint that was detailed regularly, and with a recent paint correction. The body is straight and true with no dents, and appears undamaged. The front bumper has a slight crease from the previously mounted license plate. A minor fender bender in 1999 required a repair to the left rear quarter above the bumper. It was done to a high standard, and not noticeable except for the paint thickness gauge indicating some filler (see Paint Thickness Gauge Reading section). All the factory body panel VIN stickers are intact.
INTERIOR: The optional black leather seats are in very nice condition. The door panels are like new along with the dash and console. An upgraded Panasonic AM/FM/CD with custom speakers is installed. The black carpeting is in very good condition having been protected by “Miata” carpeted floor mats. The air conditioning compressor was replaced in 2017 and blows cold.
CHASSIS/ENGINE/DRIVETRAIN: The original 1.8L,133 HP, DOHC 4-cylinder engine starts easily, idles smoothly, and accelerates briskly down the road. The timing belt was replaced in 2018 at 44,300 miles. The 5-speed manual gearbox is smooth and shifts well. The chassis is tight and handles great.
WHEELS/TIRES: The aftermarket SenDel 14” alloy wheels are very nice, just a couple light curb marks. The Toyo Spectrum 185/60R14 tires have good tread, but date from 2008.
OPTIONS: Leather Seats; Air Conditioning; Power Steering; Headrest Speakers; Power Antenna.
INCLUDED WITH PURCHASE: Spare Tire & Tools; Owner’s Manual; Car Cover; Removed Console Ashtray; One Key; Battery Tender, Deck Lid Prop Rod.
PAINT THICKNESS GAUGE READINGS (in mils):
LF Fender: 1 – 2
L Door: 1 – 3
LR Quarter: 2 – 5
LR Quarter Above Bumper: 10 – 17
RR Quarter: 1 – 2
R Door: 1 – 2
RF Fender: 1 – 2
Hood: 4 – 5
Headlights: 1 – 3