NEXT GENERATION DIARIES
Sometimes all you want is an enjoyable sports car, and what you end up with is a project of personalisation – which is what Callum Tucker found when he bought his Eunos Roadster
HOW DID YOU COME TO OWN YOUR CLASSIC?
‘So, this is my first classic car, which I bought just shy of two years ago. I’ve always wanted a first-generation MX-5 or Eunos; I've driven a few and find them great fun, and I love the styling.
So, when the time was right, I picked up one of my own. It wasn’t the best example. There was a lot wrong with it, but I wanted a project and the chance to build my own thing. In my care, I’ve already done the shocks and springs, wing mirrors, window motors, regulators and switches. I’ve gone so far as to replace the standard radiator with an aluminium unit, plus the rocker cover gasket, added a fresh battery, a new radio aerial, revitalised the headlights and tidied the heater vents. I've even had to fix the doors, so they now open, close and lock; something they didn't do when I bought it. I've fitted polybushes to the rear axle, as well as fresh wheel bearings and new lower arms. The body still needs some work though – the paint is rough with some scratches and dents. Luckily however, there's little to no rust, just some surface patches on the rear arches, which I've wire brushed down, treated and painted. Certainly not a long-term fix, but it helps stop the spread.’
WHAT DO YOU USE IT FOR IT?
‘When I bought the car it was to be my daily driver, so I sold my previous car, spent that money on parts, and drove it to work and back everyday. Now I've moved jobs and walk to work, so this is pretty much a toy/project. There's so much more I want to do with the car, and now I don't have to rely on it for getting around, I can do bigger jobs and take my time. Eventually, I want to get the engine out and rebuild it, but the next thing I need to do is give the brakes a big overhaul, upgrading the discs and pads and replacing the worn rubber lines with braided hose. I'm also in the process of fitting a secondary fan to the radiator. The idea is to keep refurbishing and maintaining it so I can enjoy it out on the road, take it to car shows and have something I can be proud of.’
WHAT ARE YOUR OWNERSHIP TIPS?
‘The biggest issue with a first-generation MX-5, as with any 1990s Japanese car, is rust. The sills go first, then the rear arches. So, when buying, check these places. You can reach under and feel easily if there's rust. It’s often an expensive and time-consuming job. Working in classic car restoration, I've done sill repairs in the past and it's not enjoyable. As with any other classic, there's a lot you need to know, but there are also plenty of shops and owners selling reproduction and used parts. However, I tend to avoid buying second hand electrics. They are 30 yea
