Mk2 (NB)

The next model in the MX5 line-up is the Mk2, its commonly used ‘NB’ designation also replacing the NA in the chassis number. The Mk2 was launched in 1998 (1999 in the US) and shared much with the Mk1 under its revised bodywork, the most obvious change being the switch to fixed oval headlights and a more aggressive, sculpted look.

The engines were based on those of the Mk1 but gained variable intake control and new exhaust manifolds for improved breathing and extra torque – the 1.6 had 110ps while the 1.8 delivered 140ps, both through the familiar five-speed gearbox. Given it carries a few more kilos than the Mk1, performance in these models is generally a little behind that of the first-generation cars, the pay-off being a more substantial interior and much higher equipment levels. The glass rear screen is among the more obvious refinements.

In the Mk2 buyers could finally benefit from some of the mechanical upgrades buyers of Japanese Mk1s had already enjoyed, the 1.8iS gaining a Torsen limited-slip differential, Nardi steering wheel and ABS among its upgrades.

With a shorter production run there are fewer special editions than the Mk1 but one to look out for is the 10th Anniversary, of which 7,500 were made for the worldwide market. 600 were officially sold here, the model distinguished by its Innocent Blue Mica paint, polished wheels, colour-matched upholstery, BOSE sound system, Bilstein dampers, strut-brace, limited-slip diff and – most importantly – a new six-speed gearbox. Each car was also supplied with a gift box containing a pair of Seiko watches, a key ring, and a model of the car and are valuable today on the basis not all them were handed over to customers by some European dealers!