Segment:
Lightweight Sports Car (Roadster)
Reputation:
Iconic for its pure driving experience, affordability, and reliability.
Key Competitors:
Lotus Elan M100, Fiat Barchetta, MGF, Toyota MR2 (SW20).
Driving Dynamics:
Excellent handling, balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive, lightweight construction.
Design Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai (Horse and Rider as One) - focus on driver connection.
For Owners:
Empowers owners to maintain and repair their vehicle, saving costs and ensuring longevity of a cherished classic.
For Mechanics:
Provides essential technical data and procedures for professional and enthusiast mechanics alike.
Model Years Covered:
1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998
Engine Variants Covered:
All engine variants for specified years
Trim Levels Covered:
All trim levels for specified years
Estimated Pages:
High (Detailed workshop manual, typically 1000+ pages across multiple volumes or sections)
Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Purpose:
Comprehensive guide for vehicle maintenance, diagnosis, and repair
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, ignition system, engine control systems (ECU/PCM).
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission (5-speed), Automatic transmission (4-speed), clutch system, driveshafts, differential, axles.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, wheels, tires, braking system (front discs, rear discs/drums depending on variant).
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior), gauges and instruments, wipers and washers, horn, power accessories (windows, mirrors), fuse box and wiring diagrams.
Body Exterior:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk lid, convertible top mechanism, bumpers, glass, mirrors, exterior trim.
Body Interior:
Seats, dashboard, interior trim, airbags (if applicable), seat belts, HVAC system (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), audio system.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and filter changes, fluid level checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, air filter replacement, brake pad inspection and replacement, tire rotation and pressure checks.
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault code interpretation (OBD-I for early models, potential OBD-II for later ones), circuit testing.
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for component removal, installation, repair, and rebuilding of engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, steering, and electrical components.
Specifications And Tolerances:
Torque specifications for fasteners, measurement tolerances for critical engine and chassis components, electrical resistance values.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repair procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive (Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical schematics and diagnostic trees).
Engine Code Early:
B6ZE (1.6L)
Engine Displacement Early:
1597 cc
Bore X Stroke Early:
78.0 mm x 83.6 mm
Compression Ratio Early:
9.0:1
Horsepower Early:
115-118 hp (SAE Net) @ 6500 rpm
Torque Early:
100-103 lb-ft (SAE Net) @ 5000 rpm
Engine Code Late:
BP-ZE (1.8L, introduced 1994)
Engine Displacement Late:
1839 cc
Bore X Stroke Late:
83.0 mm x 85.0 mm
Compression Ratio Late:
9.0:1
Horsepower Late:
128 hp (SAE Net) @ 6500 rpm
Torque Late:
110 lb-ft (SAE Net) @ 4500 rpm
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Valvetrain:
Belt-driven camshafts (timing belt)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane minimum, 91 octane recommended for optimal performance)
Cooling Type:
Liquid-cooled
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (Optional on select models/years)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated, single-plate dry clutch
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 Gear Oil (check manual for specific Mazda recommendation, e.g., Mazda GL-4 75W-90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III/Mercon compatible ATF (check manual for specific Mazda recommendation)
Length:
Approx. 3955 mm (155.7 in)
Width:
Approx. 1675 mm (65.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1235 mm (48.6 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2265 mm (89.2 in)
Front Track:
Approx. 1420 mm (55.9 in)
Rear Track:
Approx. 1430 mm (56.3 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 940-1020 kg (2070-2250 lbs), varies by year and equipment.
Standard Wheel Size:
14 inch (early years), 15 inch (later years, e.g., 1.8L models)
Standard Tire Size 14In:
185/60R14
Standard Tire Size 15In:
195/50R15
NHTSA Frontal Crash:
Not rated by NHTSA in its current format during the early production years. Generally considered a safe small vehicle for its era.
IIHS Crash Test:
Similar to NHTSA, specific ratings may not be readily available in modern IIHS databases for early models, but generally performed well for its class.
ABS:
Optional on early models, standard on some later models (especially 1.8L).
Traction Control:
Not typically available on most NA MX-5 models.
Airbags:
Driver airbag standard from launch. Passenger airbag became available/standard on some later models.
Seat Belts:
3-point inertia-reel seat belts
Roll Over Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and behind-seat bracing for rollover protection.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette or CD player, often with 4 speakers. Aftermarket upgrades are common.
Display:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and temperature. No central infotainment screen.
Cruise Control:
Available as an option on many models.
Parking Sensors:
Not available.
Bluetooth:
Not available from factory.
Usb Ports:
Not available from factory.
Engine Oil And Filter:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Timing Belt:
Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years. Critical replacement to prevent catastrophic engine damage.
Spark Plugs:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for standard plugs, longer for platinum/iridium.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years (hygroscopic nature of brake fluid).
Engine Oil:
API SN or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on climate).
Coolant:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Coolant or equivalent silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based coolant (typically 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III ATF or specific power steering fluid (check manual).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual).
Rust:
Common in wheel arches, rocker panels, and chassis due to age and exposure, especially in humid climates. Requires careful inspection and potential repair.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, front/rear main seals, oil pan gasket can degrade over time.
Cooling System:
Radiator leaks, thermostat failure, water pump leaks, degradation of hoses.
Suspension Components:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, bushings, and wheel bearings can wear over time, affecting handling and ride quality.
Convertible Top:
Mechanism can become stiff, seals can degrade, and fabric can wear or tear. Proper lubrication and maintenance are key.
Window Regulators:
Can become stiff or fail, especially in older vehicles.
Mazda Legacy:
Mazda has a history of producing reliable and engaging vehicles, with a focus on driver satisfaction and innovation.
Na Generation Timeline:
Launched in 1989 (as 1990 model), produced until 1997/1998 with minor updates. Known for its simplicity and purity.
Key Updates Na:
1994: Introduction of 1.8L engine (BP-ZE), revised interior, optional ABS, larger brakes. Cosmetic changes throughout the generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Hiroshima, Japan
Production Volume:
Significant global sales, making it a popular choice for sports car enthusiasts.
Car And Driver 10Best:
Named to Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times during its production run for its exceptional driving dynamics and value.
Automotive Journalism:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists worldwide for its pure, unfiltered sports car experience.
Reliability Index:
Generally high reliability ratings for its mechanical components, though age-related wear and tear are factors.
Class Recognition:
Widely recognized as a benchmark for affordable, fun-to-drive roadsters.
