Thank you for using our cost-of-ownership calculator. This article examines the real-world costs and reliability of the 2012 MAZDA MX-5 III (NC) equipped with the 1.8 (NC18) engine at 100000 km, covering market prices, depreciation, maintenance, repairs, and overall ownership expenses.

ESTIMATED MARKET PRICE

Approximate cost of the car in undefined, shown in undefined. Used examples in good condition range from 6500-9500, certified pre-owned from 10500-12500, while project cars start around 4000.

DEPRECIATION — PAST YEAR

The vehicle lost approximately 800-1200 in undefined over the past year, equating to a 10-12% depreciation.

DEPRECIATION FORECAST

Projected value loss: 700 in year 1 (resale ~7500), 1800 over 3 years (resale ~6000), and 3000 over 5 years (resale ~4500) in undefined.

BREAKDOWN FREQUENCY & REPAIR COSTS

This model tends to break down infrequently with proper maintenance. Average repair bill in undefined is 250-450.

ENGINE RELIABILITY & REPAIR COSTS

The 1.8 (NC18) engine rates as highly reliable. At 100000 km common issues include VVT actuator rattle (repair ~350) and occasional oil leaks from the valve cover (repair ~180) in undefined.

TRANSMISSION & GEARBOX RELIABILITY

The 5-speed manual gearbox and drivetrain are very reliable. Common failure points are clutch wear (replacement ~650) and occasional synchro issues (repair ~900) in undefined.

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM & MULTIMEDIA RELIABILITY

Electronics and sensors are generally dependable. Typical repair costs for window regulators or sensor faults average 150-300 in undefined.

SUSPENSION & CHASSIS RELIABILITY

Suspension reliability is good for a sports car. Common wear items include shock absorbers (~450 per pair) and bushings (~200) in undefined.

BODY & EXTERIOR

Paint quality is solid with average rust protection. Spare parts such as bumpers (~400), fenders (~250), and glass (~300) are readily available in undefined.

SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE COSTS

Routine service for the 1.8 (NC18) at 100000 km costs 250-400 in undefined, covering oil change, filters, spark plugs, and brake pads.

TAXES, REGISTRATION & INSURANCE

Annual tax and registration fees average 150-250 with insurance around 400-600 per year in undefined.

FUEL / ENERGY COSTS

Average fuel consumption is 7.5 L/100km. Estimated annual fuel cost is 1100-1400 in undefined based on typical driving.

TYRES

Factory tyre size is 205/50R16. OEM tyres cost 120-160 each while quality alternatives are 80-110 in undefined.

FILTERS & CONSUMABLES

Cabin air filter ~35, oil filter ~20, and other consumables average 60-90 per service in undefined.

TOTAL ANNUAL OWNERSHIP COST

Yearly Cost Summary (undefined)
  • Fuel: 1200
  • Insurance & taxes: 700
  • Maintenance & repairs: 500
  • Tyres & consumables: 300
  • Depreciation: 900
  • Total: ~3600

PROS & CONS

Pros: engaging driving dynamics, strong reliability of the 1.8 engine, low parts costs. Cons: limited practicality, potential rust on older examples, firm ride.

WHAT TO CHECK BEFORE BUYING

Inspect for rust on sills and wheel arches, test the VVT system for noise, check clutch condition, verify service history, and examine convertible top mechanism.

VERDICT

The 2012 MAZDA MX-5 III (NC) 1.8 is worth its price for enthusiasts seeking fun and reliability. It is recommended for purchase with a thorough pre-buy inspection.