Classifieds' Car Of The Day: Mk1 Mazda MX-5

Christmas only means one thing for the mulled-wine drinking petrolhead: late-night online car shopping. But instead of waking up with a head full of regret and a garage full of bangers, you could in fact make a wise purchase this winter.

Thanks to its fabric roof, today's Car Of The Day can be picked up for peanuts this time of year. Built between 1989 and 1999, the first generation Mazda MX-5 stole the hearts of British sports car fans with its front engined, rear-wheel drive layout, harking back to the glory days of the Lotus Elan. This stunning 1.6-litre 'S' model you see here is a perfect example of that very breed.

With 116bhp, a limited-slip differential and sports suspension, this imported example would no doubt be a hoot to drive any time of the year. Plus the inclusion of rare alloys and a hard top means the boxes for style and practicality can also be ticked.

To further emphasise this car's credentials, it has recently been fully serviced and had its cam-cover gasket replaced, addressing the issue of age related oil leaks. And word on the street is Mk1s are on the brink of appreciation, so this car's £1950 price tag could in fact be a short term investment.

This sweet example is ready to be driven hard the second you take ownership, so you can enjoy the thrills of open-top motoring right away - did someone say snow drifting?