Segment:
Lightweight, affordable two-seater convertible sports car
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking a pure, engaging driving experience
Key Competitors:
Alfa Romeo Spider, Triumph TR7, Fiat Spider, later Porsche 944
Driving Dynamics:
Excellent weight distribution, rear-wheel drive, responsive handling, open-top motoring
Design Philosophy:
Simple, reliable, fun-to-drive roadster inspired by classic British sports cars
Value Proposition:
Affordable entry into sports car ownership with high reliability and low running costs
Primary Coverage:
All mechanical and electrical systems, bodywork, and interior components
Trim Level Coverage:
All trim levels for the specified model years
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific factory manual, but typically 2000+ pages for a comprehensive set
Type:
Factory Service & Repair Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital Download (PDF)
Powertrain:
Engine, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, transmission, differential, drive axles
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system, wheels and tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, body electronics, engine control module (ECM)
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, dashboard, HVAC system, convertible top mechanism
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), component testing procedures
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major components and systems
Overhaul:
Complete engine and transmission overhaul procedures, including disassembly, inspection, and reassembly
Adjustments:
Valve adjustments, clutch adjustments, brake adjustments, alignment procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic fluid checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, wiring diagrams, and component specifications
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 1990-1992:
118 hp @ 6500 rpm
Horsepower 1993:
114 hp @ 6500 rpm (slight detune for emissions)
Torque 1990-1992:
100 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Torque 1993:
98 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
ECU Type:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) with diagnostic capabilities
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (available on most models)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated, dry single plate clutch
Gear Ratios Manual:
Refer to manual for specific ratios, typically close-ratio for sporty feel
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II (or equivalent)
Length:
Approx. 157.3 inches (3995 mm)
Width:
Approx. 66.1 inches (1680 mm)
Height:
Approx. 48.4 inches (1230 mm) with soft top up
Wheelbase:
Approx. 89.2 inches (2265 mm)
Ground Clearance:
Approx. 4.9 inches (125 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2150-2250 lbs (975-1020 kg), varies by trim and options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle VIN plate
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 4.7 cubic feet (133 liters)
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not rated or tested under modern standards
IIHS Crash Test:
Not rated or tested under modern standards
ABS:
Optional on early models, standard on later models (check specific year/trim)
Traction Control:
Not typically available on this generation
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard from 1990 onwards
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and optional behind-seat hoop
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles
Coolant Flush:
Every 24,000 miles or 24 months
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 (or 5W-30 in very cold climates)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.9 US quarts (3.7 liters) with filter
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Mazda Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II (or equivalent, if equipped with power steering)
Rust Prone Areas:
Rocker panels, rear quarter panels, chassis rails, wheel arches
Engine Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, rear main seal
Cooling System:
Radiator leaks, hose degradation, water pump bearing failure
Electrical Gremlins:
Corroded grounds, faulty window regulators, unreliable power antenna (if equipped)
Convertible Top:
Wear on seals, cables stretching, mechanism issues
Clutch Wear:
Clutch release bearing noise, clutch disc wear
Mazda Sports Car Legacy:
Mazda has a history of building lightweight, driver-focused cars, culminating in the MX-5
Naclassification:
The NA generation established the fundamental formula for all subsequent MX-5 models.
Production Years:
1989-1997 (for NA generation, model years 1990-1993 covered by manual)
Manufacturing Location:
Hiroshima, Japan
Sales Figures Impact:
Became the best-selling two-seater sports car of all time, revitalizing the segment.
Automotive Journalism:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its driving dynamics and affordability.
Car And Driver 10Best:
Named to Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times during its production run.
Consumer Reports:
Generally well-regarded for reliability, though specific ratings vary by year.
Iso Certification:
Manufactured by Mazda, an ISO certified automotive manufacturer.
