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The Mazda MX‑5 Mk 1, introduced in 1998, captured the hearts of driving enthusiasts worldwide with its lightweight chassis, rear‑wheel drive layout, and unmistakable road‑safety heritage. Whether you’re a collector, a renovator, or a casual observer, the *Mazda MX‑5 Mk 1 price* remains a topic of keen interest—especially when you factor in vehicle age, mileage, and market supply. In this guide, we’ll walk you through a concise snapshot of the Mk 1’s spec sheet, realistic depreciation expectations, and how it lines up against other convertibles in its class. By the end, you’ll know if the *Mazda MX‑5 Mk 1 1998 price* you’ve seen online or in a local dealership is reasonable, and how to gauge *what is a 1998 Mazda MX‑5 Mk 1 worth* under current market conditions. ### Key Specifications

• Model Year: 1998
• Engine: 1.8‑liter inline‑4, 105 hp
• Transmission: 5‑speed manual (optional 4‑speed automatic)
• Fuel Type: Petrol
• Drivetrain: Rear‑wheel drive
• Dimensions: Length 152.6 in, Width 67.7 in, Height 49.2 in, Wheel‑base 90.3 in
• Weight: Approx. 2,300 lb (2,600 lb with full‑facing a‑cable version)
• Performance: 0–60 mph in ~9.7 seconds; Top speed ~113 mph
• Fuel Economy: ~24 mpg city / 28 mpg highway (real‑world average)
• Seating Capacity: 2 (driver + front passenger)
• Notable Features: Manual convertible top (optional auto wind‑shields), analog instrumentation, true “soft‑top” design

These specifications highlight what made the Mk 1 a benchmark in its era—compact, yet capable, and exceptionally responsive. While the 1.8‑liter engine might sound modest by today’s standards, it delivered a spirited powerband that still thrills in gentle daily discovery. ### Depreciation Insight When evaluating a *used Mazda MX‑5 Mk 1 price*, depreciation plays a pivotal role. Many automotive experts estimate that classic convertibles, especially those with enthusiast appeal, follow a depreciation curve distinct from mainstream sedans. A typical price trajectory in the first year can be summarized as follows:

• First Year: Typically loses 15‑20% of its value due to initial market exposure and potential early wear.
• Year 2‑3: Slower decline; approximate loss of 5‑10% per year as the model starts to acquire a “classic” status.
• Beyond Year 5: Value stabilization or mild appreciation for pristine examples in excellent condition.

Thus, a 1998 Mazda MX‑5 that entered the market at a mid‑tier used price will often trade fairly close to its depreciated value over five years, unless it has a superior condition record, low mileage, or meticulous documentation. When investing in a Mk 1, always factor in potential maintenance overheads—such as wheel‑rim restoration or magnetic‑film repairs—which can affect valuation above the baseline depreciation curve. ### Comparison Context To put the *Mazda MX‑5 Mk 1 price* into perspective, let’s compare

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Last 20 car trackeds

Last tracked date	Status	Price	Price rank	Link
4 years ago	used	£21,795.00		Unlock all links
4 years ago	used	£5,250.00		Unlock all links