Market Segment:
Affordable two-seater sports car, lightweight roadster
Key Competitors:
Lotus Elan, Triumph Spitfire (historical context), later models like the Alfa Romeo Spider
Design Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai (Horse and Rider as One) - driver-centric, lightweight, rear-wheel drive, pure driving experience
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking an engaging driving experience, those who appreciate classic British roadster styling with Japanese reliability
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, engine cooling system
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission, clutch system, driveshafts, differential, axles
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, braking system (hydraulic, disc brakes front/rear)
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, lighting, instruments, gauges, power accessories
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, interior trim, seats, convertible top mechanism
Preventative Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides for common issues, fault code identification (where applicable), diagnostic testing of electrical circuits
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper overhaul, suspension component replacement, steering rack repair
Adjustment And Calibration:
Idle speed adjustment, clutch adjustment, brake bleeding, wheel alignment specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers routine maintenance, diagnostics, component-level repair, and major overhauls. Suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.
File Type:
PDF (Portable Document Format)
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable PDF, allowing for quick information retrieval
Printability:
Designed for clear printing of diagrams, schematics, and text
Binding:
N/A (Digital download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital download)
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Engine Displacement:
1.6 Liters (1597 cc)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Horsepower 1991-1992:
116 hp @ 6500 rpm
Horsepower 1993:
110 hp @ 6500 rpm (slight revision due to emissions)
Torque 1991-1992:
100 lb-ft @ 5500 rpm
Torque 1993:
99 lb-ft @ 5500 rpm
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 Octane minimum recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
11.3 US gallons (42.8 Liters)
Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (less common, not typically preferred by enthusiasts)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated, dry single-plate
Final Drive Ratio Manual:
4.10:1 (typical)
Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (refer to manual for specific Mazda specification)
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
Not rated by NHTSA for rollover due to convertible design and lack of roll bar in early models
Braking System:
Four-wheel disc brakes (ventilated front, solid rear)
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on some models
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard from 1992 onwards; not present on 1991 models
Rollover Protection:
Early models often featured an aftermarket roll bar; factory roll bar became more integrated later in the generation.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, typically 4 speakers
Display:
Basic analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and temperature. Warning lights.
Cruise Control:
Available on some models/trims
Bluetooth:
Not factory equipped
Usb Port:
Not factory equipped
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific conditions)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on spark plug type)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial: Every 60,000 miles or 5 years due to interference engine design (refer to manual for specific interval and procedures)
Engine Oil Type:
10W-30 API SG or SH rated (check manual for latest recommendations)
Engine Oil Capacity:
3.9 US quarts (3.7 Liters) with filter change
Coolant Type:
Mazda-specific long-life coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific recommendation)
Rust Prone Areas:
Rocker panels, rear quarter panels, floor pans, subframes (especially in corrosive climates)
Engine Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, front crankshaft seal, rear main seal
Cooling System:
Radiator leaks, hose degradation, water pump failure
Electrical:
Dim dashboard lights, failing gauge clusters, window motor issues
Convertible Top:
Sticking zippers, worn seals, frame wear
Mazda Motorsports:
Mazda's long history in motorsports, particularly with lightweight sports cars, influenced the Miata's development.
Japanese Domestic Market:
Originally launched as the Eunos Roadster in Japan
Global Launch:
Launched in 1989, arriving in the US for the 1990 model year; these years represent the early NA generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Hiroshima, Japan
Production Span Na Generation:
1989-1997
Car And Driver 10 Best:
Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times during its production run
Automotive Journalism Acclaim:
Consistently praised for its handling, affordability, and driving purity by automotive journalists worldwide.
Roadster Revival:
Credited with reviving the affordable, lightweight roadster segment in the automotive market.
