A UK-supplied 1998 Mazda MX-5 ‘Berkeley Edition’, numbered 394/400 and believed to be the sixth-to-last MK1 built before MK2 production. Just 36,875 miles from new and presenting in highly original, collector-grade condition. First delivered by Romford Mazda in April 1998 and retained in single-family custody ever since. Light summertime London use with underground parking at home and work, then mechanically recommissioned in 2024 after careful storage. Accompanied by the original owners’ manuals and handbooks, with Docklands Mazda main-dealer servicing to 2003 and continued annual maintenance to 2014.
Information: Number 394 of 400, this ‘Berkeley Edition’ represents a rare, late-run MK1 with outstanding provenance and very low mileage. Supplied new by Romford Mazda in April 1998, the car was used sparingly in summer months and stored in underground car parks, which has clearly preserved its originality and condition. Following the original owner’s passing in 2015, the MX-5 remained in the family and was carefully garaged until a 2024 recommission returned it to regular use. Offered with original books and a traceable service record (main dealer to 2003, then independents to 2014), it’s a compelling opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts seeking an authentic, lightly-used UK MK1 in a limited-edition specification.
History: Registered new in April 1998 by Romford Mazda (London) and maintained annually at Docklands Mazda through 2003, with invoices recorded. From 2003 to 2014 the car received yearly attention at Car Care Centre (Tower Hamlets) and other independents. In 2015 it transferred within the same family and was stored as a cherished keepsake. In 2024 the MX-5 was mechanically recommissioned following storage. Documentation includes the original owners’ manuals/handbooks; subsequent MOTs and post-recommission service items can be reviewed with interested buyers.
› 02 — Exterior
Paintwork: The paintwork presents clean, glossy and highly original in appearance, consistent with light seasonal use and long-term underground parking. Panel surfaces show a strong uniform finish with the kind of minimal age-related evidence you would expect of a carefully stored 1990s car. As always, please review the gallery for close-ups; paint-depth readings and further detail can be provided to serious buyers.
Structural: Benefitting from predominantly dry, underground storage and modest mileage, the car presents very well structurally for a MK1. Key areas on these models (sills, arches, chassis rails and jacking points) appear tidy in line with its history. We welcome inspections on a lift to satisfy any buyer due diligence.
Wheels & Tyres: Factory-correct alloy wheels present smartly and suit the car’s preserved look. Tyres are serviceable for road use and appear in keeping with the vehicle’s careful history. Full brand/age details and tread measurements can be supplied on request, and we’re happy to accommodate pre-purchase checks.
Trims: Exterior and interior trims remain authentically presented, with badges, lenses, rubbers and brightwork showing the gentle patina expected of a well-kept, low-mileage example. The overall impression is cohesive and original rather than over-restored.
Convertible Top: The soft-top presents neatly with tidy seals and fittings, reflective of indoor storage and seasonal use. Operation is straightforward and weather gear sits cleanly when stowed. As ever, please review the gallery for rear-screen clarity and seam detail.
› 03 — interior
Accessories: Supplied with the original owners’ manuals and handbooks. A spare wheel/jack, tool kit and other factory items are present as pictured. Any additional period accessories or spares visible in the gallery are included in the sale.
Carpets & Mats: Cabin carpets remain clean and original in feel, showing light, commensurate wear for the indicated mileage. Mats fit correctly and the heel-pad area presents well, consistent with careful use.
Dash & Trim: The dashboard and interior plastics are well preserved, with clear instruments and tidy switchgear. Surfaces avoid the heavy fading or cracking sometimes seen on outdoor-kept cars of the era, aligning with the car’s indoor storage story.
Seats & Upholstery: Seats and upholstery present smartly with supportive bolsters and tidy stitching, reflecting the low mileage and considered use. Overall, the cabin retains the correct MK1 character without excessive wear.
› 04 —
Mechanical and electrical
Overall Mechanical Health Evaluation: Following its 2024 mechanical recommission, the MX-5 is described as running and driving in line with expectation for a carefully stored, low-mileage example. Fluids and service items were addressed as part of the return to use; interested parties are invited to review invoices and, if desired, arrange a pre-purchase inspection.
Electrical Evaluation: Electrical functions present as expected for a well-kept MK1, with standard lighting, instrumentation and convenience items operating during our checks. Buyers are welcome to test all systems to their satisfaction during viewing.
Suspension and Undercarriage: The undercarriage presents cleanly for age, consistent with modest mileage and indoor storage. Steering, braking and suspension components exhibit the tight, communicative feel for which MK1s are known. We’re happy to facilitate inspection on a ramp for close assessment.
Recent Maintenance: In 2024 the car underwent a mechanical recommission following long-term storage, bringing routine service items up to date for renewed use. Prior to storage, annual maintenance is recorded through 2014, with main-dealer history at Docklands Mazda to 2003. Documentation can be reviewed with serious buyers.
Alterations From Factory Specification: The car presents as largely factory-correct, retaining its original character and specification in line with its provenance and low mileage. No obvious aftermarket modifications are noted; buyers seeking absolute originality confirmation are welcome to inspect.
HPI Check:
Every example comes supplied with a complete 'Pre-Sales Checklist', signed and guaranteed by 'The Matt Johnston Collection'
