Description
Numbered 394/ 400, this ‘Berkeley Edition’ MK1 MX-5 fulfils the highly regarded role as the 6th to last MK1 MX-5’s ever manufactured, pre production of the MK2. Whilst boasting a comfortable collectors condition and reading an incredibly mere 36, 875 miles, this specific ‘Berkeley’ has been remarkably well preserved within ownership of its original purchasers, till current. Supplied in April 1998 by ‘Romford Mazda’ in London, the car situated at ‘Mrs Dove’s’ secondary home in Greenwich, used only briefly but frequently around London to commute during summer months. A underground car park both at work and home was consistently used, which evidently was a huge contributing factor to the stunning, highly original inside and out condition showcased today. Unfortunately after passing in 2015, the car was relocated into her family’s possession, re-registered and extensively cherished in their garage as a memory for the foreseeable, until mechanically recommissioned in 2024.
Supplied alongside all original owners manuals and handbooks, is a main dealership service history at ‘Docklands Mazda’ until 2003, with invoices for services completed once a year until 2003. Yearly maintenance was vastly sustained at ‘Car Care Centre’ in Tower Hamlets and other independents until 2014. Unfortunately the paper trail from 2005 to 2014 was misplaced due to the circumstances, but assurance has been made the car was yearly serviced regardless of minimal milage. As mentioned, post garage preservation entailed a full mechanical recommissioning in November 2024 at 36, 707 Miles, thus including a Full Oil Service, cambelt and water pump, all auxiliary belts, gearbox oil , differential oil, brake fluid and a fresh set of 4 Yokohama Tyres.
In correlation with such preservation, is an expected stunning and practically factory fresh condition of every aspect of this Berkeley Edition. The paintwork, after undergoing a full 3 stage machine polish and coating showcases as close to faultless as possible, even in areas common to showing wear and tear such as door shuts. Both Rear Arches and Sills present entirely in a rust free condition, accompanied by factory original spot welds in absolutely all areas, verifying no repairs/ welding has ever been needed. Both ‘Berkeley’ badges usually positioned on the front wings, were previously removed due to being the only feature showing slight age related imperfections, but are included in the sale if the next owner desires to replace or reattach.
The Interior is in a ‘time warp’ and utterly stunning original condition, still featuring the likes of the factory seat belt buckle stickers! The ‘Berkeley’ iteration features a bespoke interior with specific floor mats, seats, door cards, Momo steering wheel, wooden trim and numbered ‘394/ 400’ plaque, all of which are accompanied by a factory fitted ‘Clarion head unit. The original vinyl roof is in faultless condition, with the original Mazda stickers still showcased on both the rear and front screen. All 4 ‘Berkley’ specific alloys were professional refurbished during the November 2024 recommissioning.
With an exceptional history of care, this mere mileage example offers one of, if not the most ideal opportunity for any discerning collector or enthusiast into MX-5 history as one of the very last handful of MK1’s ever made, supplied with its original ‘R56 SAR’ registration. After undergoing the recent recommission and replacement of all maintenance components, the car is presented with absolutely no mechanical issues ; all perishables were inspected and approved to supply an advisory free ticket till 7th April 2026, accompanied by a seriously clean MOT history, to overall showcase for one of the most investable examples of a MK1 MX-5 there is.
A Full Walkaroud Video can be Supplied upon Request.
