Segment:
Lightweight Sports Car / Roadster
Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai (Horse and Rider as One) - Emphasis on driver connection and handling purity.
Competitors Era:
Lotus Elan, MG Midget/MGB (older), Triumph Spitfire (older), Alfa Romeo Spider, Datsun 240Z (influential predecessor)
Driving Dynamics:
Exceptional handling, balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive, lightweight construction.
Design:
Classic British roadster-inspired styling, pop-up headlights, minimalist interior.
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Drivetrain, Transmission, Clutch, Driveshafts, Differential
Chassis:
Suspension (Front and Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front and Rear), Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Ignition System, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Instrumentation, Wiring Diagrams, ECUs
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Interior Trim, Seats, HVAC System, Convertible Top Mechanism
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Belt Adjustments, Fluid Checks and Replacements
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, DTC Code Interpretation (if applicable for the era)
Repair:
Engine Overhauls, Transmission Rebuilds, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Servicing, Electrical Component Repair
Component Removal Installation:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for disassembling and reassembling all major vehicle components.
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic routine maintenance to complex engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Focus:
Detailed troubleshooting trees and component testing procedures for diagnosing faults.
Torque Specifications:
Extensive listing of torque values for critical fasteners across all systems.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1.6 Liters (1597 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
78.0 mm x 83.6 mm
Horsepower 1991:
118 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque 1991:
100 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Horsepower 1992:
116 hp @ 6500 rpm (slight detuning for emissions)
Torque 1992:
99 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (slight detuning for emissions)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane Recommended)
Ignition System:
Electronic Ignition (Distributor-based)
NHTSA Frontal Impact:
N/A (Not tested extensively by NHTSA in its current form)
Braking System:
Power-assisted front disc, rear drum brakes (optional rear discs on some models)
ABS:
Optional on some trims/markets
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard (US Market), Passenger airbag not available
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and optional factory or aftermarket roll bar.
Head Unit:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette player (typically with 4 speakers)
Optional Upgrades:
CD players were sometimes dealer-installed options or aftermarket upgrades.
Cruise Control:
Available on certain trim levels
Connectivity Features:
None inherent to the era (no Bluetooth, USB, etc.)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (depending on driving conditions)
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (NGK BKR5E-11 recommended)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (CRITICAL maintenance item)
Engine Oil Type Capacity:
API SG/SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30. Capacity: 3.8 Liters (4.0 US Quarts) with filter.
Coolant Type Capacity:
Mazda Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent, 50/50 mix. Capacity: 4.6 Liters (4.9 US Quarts).
Transmission Fluid Manual Capacity:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil. Capacity: 2.1 Liters (2.2 US Quarts).
Transmission Fluid Automatic Capacity:
Dexron III (or equivalent) ATF. Capacity: 3.2 Liters (3.4 US Quarts).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Rust Prone Areas:
Rocker panels, rear fender lips, sills, wheel wells are susceptible to corrosion.
Engine Issues:
Rear main seal leaks, oil cooler seal leaks, coolant leaks from brittle hoses.
Cooling System:
Radiator can develop leaks over time, water pump seals can fail.
Electrical Issues:
Window motor failures, mirror motor failures, headlamp pop-up motor issues, wiring harness degradation.
Convertible Top:
Seals can deteriorate, fabric can tear, mechanism can become stiff.
Mazda Philosophy:
Reputation for reliable, fun-to-drive, and affordable vehicles. Introduction of Skyactiv principles later.
Introduction Date:
1989 (as model year 1990 in most markets)
Na Generation Run:
1989-1997
Mid Cycle Refresh:
Minor updates and engine power increases occurred during the NA generation, particularly in 1994.
Manufacturing Location:
Hofu, Yamaguchi, Japan
Production Volume Estimated:
Over 400,000 units for the NA generation.
