Market Position:
The Mazda Miata (NA generation) redefined the affordable sports car segment, offering pure driving enjoyment and classic styling. This manual targets owners and enthusiasts seeking to maintain and repair their beloved vehicles.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against cars like the Toyota MR2 and Nissan 240SX, but the Miata's focus on light weight, rear-wheel drive, and communicative chassis set it apart.
Key Features Vehicle:
Lightweight construction, rear-wheel drive, excellent handling, convertible top, iconic pop-up headlights.
Key Features Manual:
Extensive coverage of all major vehicle systems, detailed step-by-step procedures, clear diagrams, troubleshooting guides, essential for DIY maintenance and repairs.
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions control, engine overhaul.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (type: Mazda RWD 5-speed), clutch, driveshaft, differential, rear axle.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes (specifics vary by trim), parking brake, hydraulic system.
Steering:
Rack and pinion steering, power steering system (if equipped).
Suspension:
Front double wishbone, rear multi-link independent suspension, shock absorbers, springs, bushings.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, instruments, gauges, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body:
Body structure, exterior panels, doors, windows, convertible top mechanism, interior trim, seats.
Climate Control:
Heating and air conditioning system (if equipped).
Exhaust:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, pipes.
Maintenance:
Routine checks, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Repair:
Engine component repair/replacement, transmission overhaul, brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting for various systems.
Rebuild:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission rebuild procedures.
Refurbish:
Body panel repair, convertible top maintenance and repair.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic owner maintenance to full mechanical and electrical system overhauls and diagnostics.
File Format Details:
If digital (PDF), expect searchable text, high-resolution diagrams, bookmark functionality. If printed, expect clear line drawings, schematics, and well-organized text.
Print Quality Details:
High quality, with clear, legible text and detailed, accurate technical illustrations and diagrams.
Binding Type Details:
Likely a durable binding suitable for workshop use (e.g., spiral-bound or hardbound for printed versions).
Paper Type Details:
Durable paper stock that can withstand workshop conditions, often with a matte finish to reduce glare.
Completeness Level:
Full Service Repair Manual, implying exhaustive coverage of all repair, maintenance, and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Engine Displacement:
1.6 Liters (1597 cc)
Horsepower Est:
116-120 hp @ 6500 rpm (varies slightly by year/market)
Torque Est:
100-102 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (varies slightly by year/market)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating typically 91 or higher recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity Est:
11.4 US Gallons (43 Liters)
Transmission Type Standard:
5-Speed Manual Transmission (Mazda RWD Type)
Transmission Type Optional:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission (Available on some models/trims)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated, single dry plate
Final Drive Ratio Est:
4.10:1 (Manual Transmission)
Transmission Fluid Spec:
Mazda GL-5 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil is commonly recommended (refer to manual for exact specification and capacity).
Length Est:
3,950 mm (155.5 in)
Width Est:
1,675 mm (65.9 in)
Height Est:
1,235 mm (48.6 in) (Convertible Top Up)
Wheelbase Est:
2,265 mm (89.2 in)
Ground Clearance Est:
140 mm (5.5 in)
Curb Weight Est:
960-1,000 kg (2,116-2,205 lbs), depending on options and transmission.
Towing Capacity:
Not Recommended/Designed for towing.
NHTSA Rating Est:
No standardized NHTSA ratings from this era. Focus on the era's safety standards.
Active Safety Features:
Front and Rear Ventilated Disc Brakes (standard), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some later models or as an option.
Passive Safety Features:
Reinforced A-pillars, Roll-over bar behind seats, Three-point seat belts, Driver-side airbag (available on some later models or as an option).
Infotainment System:
Basic factory radio with AM/FM and cassette player. Optional CD changer available on some models.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by era. ABS available on some later models. Focus is on mechanical feedback and driver engagement.
Connectivity Features:
None by modern standards. Typically features for basic audio accessories.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Consult manual for exact intervals.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 60,000 miles. Use correct spark plug type specified in manual.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Critical: Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (due to age). Failure causes catastrophic engine damage.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended (consult manual for exact specification and viscosity based on climate).
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene glycol-based, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mazda FL22 Long Life Coolant or equivalent is recommended for later models, but a high-quality universal green coolant is generally acceptable for this era, following proper flushing procedures.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (check manual for precise recommendation).
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
ATF Dexron III or equivalent (if equipped with power steering).
Known Issues Rust:
Rusting in common areas like rocker panels, wheel wells, and around the windshield frame is a significant concern for NA Miatas.
Known Issues Engine Oil Leaks:
Oil seal leaks (crankshaft, camshaft) and valve cover gasket leaks are common with age.
Known Issues Cooling System:
Radiator may degrade over time, and hoses can become brittle. Water pump failures are also possible.
Known Issues Convertible Top:
The fabric top can wear, seals can degrade, and the mechanism may require adjustment or repair.
Known Issues Window Regulators:
Manual window regulators can become stiff or break.
Brand Heritage Mazda:
Mazda has a history of producing reliable and sporty vehicles, including the rotary-powered RX series, but the Miata marked a significant return to accessible, pure sports car manufacturing.
Model Evolution Na:
The 1991-1993 models represent the early years of the first-generation Miata (NA). Key changes in this period included minor styling tweaks, revised engine output, and introduction of options like airbags and ABS on some models.
Production Years:
1989-1997 (NA Generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Hiroshima, Japan
