Since it was introduced at the tail end of the 1980s, the Mazda MX-5 series has held a deserved reputation as a perfectly balanced, yet surprisingly affordable, roadster. And as far as sporty cars go, it can be relatively cheap to buy car insurance for. Its front-engine, rear-wheel drive configuration, coupled with light weight and iconic styling has made it a genuine modern classic, and part of a new wave of mass-produced Japanese cars that show the Far East is capable of producing cars which can set the pulse racing, as well as being efficient and reliable. But while factory spec MX-5's have stacks of appeal, they're an incredibly popular choice for modifiers who want to wring greater performance from the MX-5's modest, naturally aspirated engine.

The implications of modification
There are trade-offs to be made if you modify your MX-5, the biggest being your insurance premiums. While it isn't the case that insurers take a dim view of modified cars, they certainly see them as a greater risk and reflect this in the premiums on offer. This is due to a number of reasons, including the appeal modified cars hold for thieves (particularly if high-end entertainment gear has been installed) and also the implications that higher performance can bring they are perceived to be more likely involved in high speed accidents by insurance companies. Whatever modifications you make to your MX-5, it's utterly essential you declare them to your insurer, however trivial they may seem. If you don't, it could invalidate your policy and in the event of a claim, leave you to foot the bill of whatever damages / injuries you have caused. However, insuring your modified MX-5 doesn't have to be as expensive as you think. There are steps you can take to bring your insurance premiums down to a more comfortable level.

1. Drive with caution
Staying free of driving convictions and keeping your no-claims intact will mean insurance companies will view you as less of a liability and reward you with a cheaper premium.

2. Choose your modifications carefully
It's an easy trap to fit all the features you possibly can to your MX-5. But some modifications are big "no-no's" for insurers . for example the addition of nitrous oxide kits. Try to go for things you really feel you can't live without.

3. Security matters
If you're going to put what could potentially be a lot of money into an MX-5 project, then you'll want to make sure that it's well protected from thieves. As such, there are plenty of ways to making your car more secure. Getting a detachable hard top is a great place to start, while everything from steering locks to alarms are hits with insurance companies. It's a good idea to install a tracking device, which will allow your MX-5 to be located if a thief is successful.

4. Lock it up
If your home has a garage, make sure you look your MX-5 up overnight, as it will keep it away from the prying eyes of thieves. Insurers take this into account and reduce your premium accordingly.

5. Make an annual payment
If you.re able to pay for your insurance in one lump sum, do so. It means that you will not have to pay interest charges on payments spread over the year.

6. Limit your mileage
By restricting your mileage, you lower the likelihood of being involved in an accident. Insurers lower your premium as such. If it.s practical to do so, it.s definitely worth investigating.

7. Hunt for the best deal
Thanks to comparison websites, it's now really easy to check what's on offer from lots of different insurance providers. With just a few clicks, you can easily see lots of quotes and compare pricing and features. Always make sure the policy you choose provides adequate cover in the case you need to call on your insurance.