Vehicle Segment:
Lightweight Sports Car, Roadster
Key Selling Points:
Affordable, reliable, fun-to-drive, excellent handling, convertible experience
Key Competitors:
Porsche Boxster (higher end), Honda S2000 (later years), BMW Z3, Toyota MR2
Body Style:
Two-door convertible
Engine Layout:
Front-engine, Rear-wheel drive
Distinguishing Features:
Pop-up headlights (early NB models), balanced chassis, direct steering, nimble handling
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, exhaust, emissions control, engine management (ECU)
Transmission Drivetrain:
Manual transmission (M5/M6), clutch system, driveshafts, rear differential, axle shafts
Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (double wishbone), rear suspension (multi-link), steering gear, power steering system, wheels and tires
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake fluid, parking brake
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, wipers and washers, horn, fuses and relays, wiring diagrams
HVAC System:
Air conditioning, heating, ventilation, refrigerant system
Body Chassis:
Body construction, doors, hood, trunk lid, interior trim, glass, bumpers, frame specifications
Body Control Modules:
Central locking, power windows, keyless entry (if equipped), security system
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil change, filter replacement, spark plug replacement, coolant flush, brake fluid flush, transmission fluid change, differential fluid change
Repair Procedures:
Engine component replacement (e.g., alternator, starter, water pump), clutch replacement, brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, exhaust system repair, electrical component diagnosis and replacement
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meanings, symptom-based troubleshooting, electrical system diagnostics, fuel system diagnostics
Specification Tables:
Torque specifications for all critical fasteners, diagnostic specifications, measurement tolerances, clearances
Diagnostic Tools:
Required diagnostic tools, scan tool usage, oscilloscope usage for advanced diagnostics
Rebuild Instructions:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission component rebuilding (where applicable)
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of Mazda-specific special tools required for certain repairs
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission (FS5W71C)
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (430LE)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically Actuated Dry Single Plate Clutch
Final Drive Ratio:
4.10:1 (Manual), 4.30:1 (Automatic)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (e.g., Mazda Genuine Gear Oil or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
4 stars (1999)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
4 stars (1999)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (1999-2001, dependent on specific testing year)
ABS:
Standard (4-wheel disc ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional on some models/years
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced windshield frame, optional factory roll bar
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) (NGK PFR6A or equivalent recommended)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 24 months (DOT 3 or DOT 4 recommended)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable (uses a timing chain)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.8 US quarts (4.5 Liters) with filter (SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30)
Coolant Type:
Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors)
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, suspension bushings, wheel bearings, brake wear
Engine Quirks:
Oil consumption can increase with mileage, occasional coolant leaks from hoses or water pump
Electrical Gremlins:
Window motors, power lock actuators, and some sensor issues can occur with age
Body Corrosion:
Rust can form in common areas like rear fender lips, rocker panels, and around the soft top frame
Brand Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai (Horse and Rider as One) - focusing on driver connection and feedback
Na Generation Comparison:
NB generation (1999-2005) succeeded the NA generation (1989-1997), featuring refined styling, improved chassis rigidity, and more power.
Nb Design Changes:
Fixed headlights replaced pop-up headlights (except for early 1999 models), slightly larger dimensions, improved aerodynamics.
Production Period Nb:
1998-2005
Manufacturing Plant:
Hofu, Yamaguchi, Japan