WORLD BEST

Car price tracker

Track car prices and stay informed on market trends with our comprehensive car pricing tool. See historical prices and compare models to make an informed decision on your next vehicle purchase. Find the best deal on your dream car today!
< Go back
Mazda

Mazda - MX-5 Mk1 (1993)

The Mazda MX‑5 Mk1, the original Z‑Brazier born in 1990, stole the hearts of road‑ster lovers with its light‑weight chassis, playful handling, and unmistakable “Mia” smile. By 1993 the Mk1 had solidified its place on a growing global enthusiast list, and today the price story remains a revolving door of vintage charm and modern value. Whether you’re a collector eyeing the early ‘93 models or a casual driver wondering, “what is a 1993 Mazda MX‑5 Mk1 worth,” the decade‑old roadster continues to command vivid interest in the used car market.

  • Engine – 1.6‑liter inline‑four (RM-8), 84 hp, 114 Nm
  • Transmission – 5‑speed manual (available as 4‑speed in some markets)
  • Fuel type – Gasoline
  • Weight – 730 kg (dry weight)
  • Dimensions – Length 3,940 mm, Width 1,860 mm, Height 1,490 mm, Wheelbase 2,240 mm
  • Top speed – 206 km/h (128 mph) (typical tuned vehicles)
  • 0‑ km/h (0‑62 mph) – 6.9 s
  • Suspension – MacPherson strut front, multi-link rear
  • Brakes – 14‑inch front disc, 13‑inch rear disc
  • Seating capacity – 2 passengers

While the original Mk1 drivetrain and body language remain largely unchanged across the 1990‑1995 iterations, subtle metric changes – like track widths and wheel fitment – help distinguish early '93 models from later 1994‑95 variants. That distinction is important when you’re looking at vehicles for resale or restoration; a June 1993 base model often carries a different character than a Dec 1994 trim with a slight towing capacity boost.

Exploring the “Mazda MX‑5 Mk1 price” corridor is a conversation about eras, condition, and mileage. Most used MX‑5 Mk1s in the UK, Europe, and US markets show a price bracket that “varies by market/condition.” For a well‑maintained 1993 Mk1 with under 60,000 km, you’ll find listings ranging from £1,500 to £2,800. In the US, a comparable style might settle between $3,000 and $5,500. Regionally, the car tends to trade a bit higher in countries where road‑ster culture is more pronounced.

Depreciation Dynamics: MX‑5 Mk1 depreciation

Vintage sport cars often have a different depreciation curve than modern mass‑produced models. The Mazda MX‑5 Mk1 typically suffers an initial loss of 15–20% during its first year, as the vehicle transitions from a showroom bestseller to a used‑car sleeper. After the first five years, the depreciation rate slows but still erodes an additional 30–40% of its original value, largely due to factors such as parts availability, mileage, and restoration costs.

  • 0–1 yr: −15 % to −20 %
  • 1–3 yr: −5 % to −10 % annually
  • 3–5 yr: −3 % to −5 % annually
  • 5+ yr: Value stabilization or modest gains if rarity or celebrity endorsement spikes demand

Because the MX‑5 was an entry‑level model, it also carries the advantage of a broad service network and parts pool, meaning well‑documented maintenance history can considerably mitigate typical depreciation.

Comparison Context: How it Stacks Against the Pack

When you compare the Mazda MX‑5 Mk1 to contemporary road‑sters such as the Toyota MR2, Honda S2000 (LK Series), or Mazda RX‑7 (NA), a few patterns emerge.