Questions from a Newbeeee....

Hi all, first time here.... I am contemplating the purchase of a slightly used  2006 MX5.  I have a number of questions which I hope you can shed some light on to allevoate my fears 1) Is the car reliable? 2) Any overheating issues? Are the maintenance costs reasonable? Is the manual soft top problematic?  What should I look for in a car that is less than 10K miles on the clock?  Is the quality of the leather acceptable and is cloth a better option? Is a 6 speed manual the better option?

Thanking you in advance for your help.

You must not have owned any before. 'cause there should be no q's about it. I can say owning the new one to just buy it and not to ask too much advise from forums. Miata's are acclaimed with the best quality, and design. I keep finding cool features about the car. The top is easy to use and thoughtful. I say, drive the old body style first and then drive the new one. It's a reliable car that's fun and roomy. Just don't buy a bra for the front end.

Actually no, but I have owned other convertibles in the past, a Rabbit from when I was in school (1983, man I am getting old ) and most recently a Mercedes Benz SLK 350, I sold it with less than 1,200 miles on it, was not much fun, and I was very worried after having read about horrible engine reliability issues, call me paranoid, but it cost a lot of money and I just sold it as a precaution.  I believe that the MX5 will suit my needs, I think the design is gorgeous, and a manual top does not have nasty electrics or modules that can go bad.  I like the economy and the handy size too, and I have heard and read excellent reviews about the car.  Unfortunately, I do not even have a chance to test drive one as I am now living overseas and the dealer does not import them, so I am just going to have one shipped over from the US  .  I am trying to do the most research I can before I take the plunge.....