Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and professional repair shops looking for in-depth maintenance and repair information for the early NA Miata.
Value Proposition:
Provides significant cost savings on repairs and maintenance by empowering owners to perform tasks themselves.
Comprehensiveness:
One of the most thorough resources available for the 1991-1992 Miata, covering virtually every aspect of the vehicle.
Usability:
Designed for ease of use with clear instructions, diagrams, and a logical structure.
Powertrain:
Engine (1.6L B6ZE), transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, drivetrain components.
Chassis And Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, steering system, wheels, tires, brakes (front disc, rear disc).
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, ignition system, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, accessories.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, convertible top mechanism, seats, dashboard, climate control.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, timing belt inspection/replacement.
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair, electrical diagnostics and repair.
Troubleshooting:
Detailed diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, fault code interpretation (where applicable).
Specifications And Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values, diagnostic specifications.
Depth:
Professional-level detail suitable for experienced mechanics and DIY enthusiasts aiming for thorough repairs.
Diagnostic Capability:
Includes advanced diagnostic trees and troubleshooting flowcharts.
Rebuild Procedures:
Comprehensive instructions for engine and transmission disassembly, inspection, and reassembly.
Searchability:
Fully searchable text content for quick information retrieval.
Print Quality:
High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or sections.
Device Compatibility:
Compatible with PC, Mac, Tablets, and Smartphones.
Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1597 cc (1.6 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
78.0 mm x 83.6 mm
Horsepower 1991:
116 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque 1991:
100 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Horsepower 1992:
116 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque 1992:
100 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Fuel Pump Pressure:
42-50 psi (specified in manual)
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (optional on some models)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated, dry single plate
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
GL-1 or GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
Dexron II or equivalent (specified in manual)
NHTSA Driver Front Impact 1991:
4 Stars (NHTSA rating for similar vehicles of the era)
NHTSA Passenger Front Impact 1991:
4 Stars (NHTSA rating for similar vehicles of the era)
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on rear wheels.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard for 1990 onwards.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced windshield frame and optional pop-up roll bar.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 30,000 miles.
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (critical for engine longevity).
Engine Oil Capacity:
3.5 US quarts (3.3 liters) with filter change (API SG/SH rated oil, 10W-30 recommended).
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 5.5 US quarts (5.2 liters) (50/50 ethylene glycol coolant).
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 (or higher) brake fluid.
Power Steering Fluid Spec:
Dexron II or equivalent (if equipped with power steering).
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, rear main seal leaks, oil pan gasket leaks, shifter bushings, radiator.
Rust Prone Areas:
Rocker panels, rear fender lips, floor pans, sills (especially in corrosive climates).
Electrical Quirks:
Sun-faded paint, window motor issues, convertible top hydraulic leaks (less common in early models but possible).
Engine Maintenance Critical:
Regular timing belt changes are paramount to prevent catastrophic engine failure.
Mazda Philosophy:
Mazda's focus on Jinba Ittai ('horse and rider as one') driving experience.
Origin Inspiration:
Inspired by classic British sports cars like the Lotus Elan and Alfa Romeo Spider.
Introduction Year:
1989 (as a 1990 model year vehicle)
Initial Reception:
Critical acclaim for its driving dynamics, affordability, and reliability.
Manufacturing Location:
Hofu Plant, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan
Production Years Na Generation:
1989-1997
Car And Driver 10Best:
Named to Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times during its production run, including 1990-1991.
Automotive Journalism Praise:
Consistently praised for its affordability, reliability, and pure driving enjoyment.
Emissions Standards:
Meets emissions standards for its respective model years (details in manual for specific regions).
