Segment:
Lightweight Sports Car, Convertible
Usp:
Affordable, reliable, pure driving experience; minimalist approach to sports car design.
Competitors:
Lotus Elise (higher price point), Toyota MR2, Porsche Boxster (higher price point), BMW Z3
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking a fun, engaging, and relatively easy-to-maintain sports car.
Diy Focus:
Designed to empower owners with the knowledge to perform maintenance and repairs themselves, saving significant costs.
Powertrain:
Engine Mechanical, Fuel System, Ignition System, Emission Control, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain Components (Driveshafts, Differentials)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System, Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting System, Instrumentation, Audio System, Power Accessories, Wiring Diagrams
Body:
Body Panel Repair, Interior Trim, Seats, Convertible Top Mechanism, Doors, Hood, Trunk
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication Points
Repair:
Component Removal & Installation, Overhaul Procedures, Diagnostic & Troubleshooting Steps
Diagnostics:
Fault Code Diagnosis, Live Data Interpretation, Component Testing
Technical Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Electrical Resistances, Pressures
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics)
Engine Code:
BP-Z3 (post-1998 update)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1839 cc (1.8 Liter)
Horsepower 1999-2000:
140 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque 1999-2000:
119 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Horsepower 2001:
142 hp @ 6500 rpm (slight revision)
Torque 2001:
120 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (slight revision)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
ECU Type:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) - Various types depending on market and transmission
Transmission Type Std:
5-Speed Manual (Type: Mazda Type R/M)
Transmission Type Opt:
4-Speed Automatic (Optional on certain trims/markets)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic Actuated, Dry Single Plate
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Mazda GL-5 75W-90 (or equivalent API GL-5 specification)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 Stars (Driver/Passenger)
IIHS Front Offset:
Acceptable (Marginal for some models in this generation)
ABS:
Standard on most models
Traction Control:
Optional on some models (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up Hoop Style Roll Bar behind seats
Seatbelts:
3-point Inertia Reel Seatbelts
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player with 4-6 speaker configurations. Optional premium Bose audio available on some trims.
Climate Control:
Manual Air Conditioning and Heating controls. Automatic climate control not typical for this era/model.
Cruise Control:
Available on most models.
Aux Input:
Not standard. Aftermarket solutions required for audio device connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first (or consult owner's manual).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 24 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific plug type).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Non-interference engine; recommended inspection every 60,000 miles, replacement typically around 90,000-100,000 miles (critical).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or ACEA A2/A3, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (consult manual for climate specific recommendations)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 US Quarts (3.8 Liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 Coolant or equivalent Long-Life (Green) Antifreeze/Coolant
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Mazda Genuine ATF or Dexron III equivalent
Common Problems:
Oil consumption (especially early NB models), rear main seal leaks, clutch wear, AC system issues, convertible top fabric wear, window regulator problems, minor electrical gremlins.
Common Fixes:
Regular oil level checks, timely timing belt replacement, preventative maintenance on cooling system components.
Mazda Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai (Horse and Rider as One) - emphasizing driver connection.
Nb Generation Introduction:
Introduced in 1998 for the 1999 model year, evolving from the NA generation.
Nb Design Changes:
Sharper styling, fixed headlights (replacing pop-ups), improved chassis rigidity, more powerful engine, and updated interior.
Nb Facelift:
Minor facelift for 2001 model year (e.g., revised front bumper, slightly more power for certain markets).
Production Period Nb:
1998-2005
Manufacturing Location:
Hofu, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan
Car And Driver 10Best:
Car and Driver 10Best list multiple times during its initial generations.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
Not a primary awardee, but highly regarded in segment.
Driving Dynamics Reputation:
Consistently praised for sharp handling, responsive steering, and balanced chassis.
