Vehicle Segment:
Lightweight two-seater sports car / Roadster
Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai ('horse and rider as one') - driver connection with the vehicle
Competitors:
Porsche Boxster, BMW Z3, Honda S2000, Toyota MR2 Spyder
Handling:
Renowned for balanced chassis, excellent steering feel, and agile handling characteristics.
Design:
Classic roadster silhouette, pop-up headlights (pre-facelift), compact dimensions.
Convertibility:
Available with a manual soft-top or optional power-retractable hardtop (PRHT) in later models.
Completeness:
Factory-level detail for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
Accessibility:
Instant download, accessible on multiple devices.
Primary Coverage:
Full Service & Repair Workshop Manual
Secondary Coverage:
All repairs, servicing, diagnostics, troubleshooting
Estimated Pages:
1500-2000 (typical for comprehensive manuals of this era)
Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine (BP-Z3, 1.8L DOHC), Transmission (5-speed manual, optional 4-speed automatic), Differential, Drivetrain
Chassis:
Suspension (Front Double Wishbone, Rear Multi-link), Steering System (Power Assisted Rack and Pinion), Brakes (Front Ventilated Discs, Rear Solid Discs), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Unit (ECU), Ignition System, Fuel Injection System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Audio System, Power Accessories (windows, mirrors, locks), Airbag System, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Convertible Top Mechanism, Interior Trim, Bumpers
Maintenance:
Routine service, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, clutch replacement, brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension component repair, electrical diagnostics and component replacement, convertible top repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), wiring diagrams, component testing procedures
Special Procedures:
Timing belt replacement, engine compression testing, fuel pressure testing, wheel alignment specifications, convertible top lubrication and adjustment
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic trees and component specifications.
Configuration:
1.8L Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16 Valves
Horsepower 1999-2000:
140 hp @ 6500 rpm (SAE Net)
Torque 1999-2000:
119 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (SAE Net)
Horsepower 2001-2005:
142 hp @ 6500 rpm (SAE Net) - Post facelift and minor revisions
Torque 2001-2005:
125 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (SAE Net) - Post facelift and minor revisions
Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Sequential Multi-Port Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane Recommended)
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) with OBD-II diagnostics
Cooling System Type:
Liquid-cooled
Type:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated, single dry plate
Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (e.g., Mazda Genuine Gear Oil) or equivalent
Fluid:
Dexron III/VI ATF (e.g., Mazda ATF JWS3314) or equivalent
Type:
Rear Wheel Drive with limited-slip differential (LSD) optional on some trims
Fluid:
API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 Hypoid Gear Oil (e.g., Mazda Genuine Hypoid Gear Oil) or equivalent
Length:
approx. 3955 mm (155.7 in)
Width:
approx. 1680 mm (66.1 in)
Height:
approx. 1235 mm (48.6 in) (soft top up)
Wheelbase:
approx. 2265 mm (89.2 in)
Curb Weight:
approx. 1060-1140 kg (2337-2513 lbs) depending on options and model year
Trunk Volume:
approx. 150 liters (5.3 cu ft)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x100
Tire Sizes Standard:
185/60R14, 195/55R15 (later models), 205/40R17 (optional/Mazdaspeed)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star (driver), 4-star (passenger) for 1999 model
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (for models equipped with side airbags)
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on base trims early on.
Traction Control:
Optional on some models, especially those with automatic transmission.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard. Optional side airbags on later models.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and optional pop-up rollover hoops.
Audio System:
Factory CD player with AM/FM radio, optional Bose premium audio system on some trims.
Display:
Basic digital clock and single-DIN radio aperture.
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels.
Bluetooth:
Not typically factory-equipped on this generation, aftermarket solutions available.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (using platinum-tipped plugs).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Recommended every 60,000 miles or 5 years (critical maintenance item for interference engines).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 (preferred for temperature range) or 10W-30. Mazda recommends specific oils like Mazda Dexelia Ultra 5W-30.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, meeting Mazda's specific coolant requirements (typically long-life, silicate-free).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check reservoir cap for specific recommendation).
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mazda Genuine Power Steering Fluid or equivalent DEXRON II/III ATF.
Engine:
Oil consumption (especially with higher mileage), coolant leaks from rear of cylinder head, occasional ignition coil failure.
Chassis:
Rust formation on rocker panels, rear quarter panels, and subframes; worn out sway bar end links and bushings; clutch slave cylinder leaks.
Electrical:
Window motor failure, dashboard warning light issues (ABS, SRS), antenna corrosion.
Convertible Top:
Stiffening of fabric top over time, mechanism wear, water leaks around seals.
Brand Focus:
Mazda is known for its sporty and engaging driving dynamics, with a long history of lightweight, affordable sports cars.
Generation Nb Introduction:
The NB generation was introduced for the 1999 model year, replacing the NA generation.
Facelift:
A significant facelift occurred for the 2001 model year, featuring revised front and rear styling, updated interior, and engine power increase.
Performance Variants:
Includes special editions like the 10th Anniversary, Shinsen, and Mazdaspeed MX-5.
Production Period:
1998-2005
Manufacturing Location:
Hofu, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan
