Vehicle Segment:
Lightweight two-seater sports car, convertible.
Key Competitors Era:
Honda S2000, Toyota MR2 Spyder, Porsche Boxster, BMW Z3.
Vehicle Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai (Horse and Rider as One) - driver-focused, pure driving experience.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners to perform a wide range of maintenance and repair tasks, saving significantly on dealership or independent mechanic costs.
Mechanical Systems:
Engine, cooling, lubrication, fuel, exhaust, transmission, driveline, suspension, steering, brakes, HVAC.
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, starting, charging, body electrical, infotainment, power accessories.
Bodywork And Chassis:
Body panels, frame, interior trim, convertible top mechanism, glass, paint and corrosion protection.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and fills, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad/rotor replacement, tire rotation.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension component replacement, brake system repairs, electrical component diagnostics and replacement, body panel repair, convertible top repair.
Troubleshooting Guidance:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, fault code interpretation, specific component testing procedures.
Depth Of Information:
Comprehensive, covering from basic DIY maintenance to in-depth factory-level repair and diagnostics.
Engine Code Late:
Y-1.8L, Y-2.0L
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-Cylinder DOHC
Displacement Early:
1.8 Liters (1839 cc)
Displacement Late:
2.0 Liters (1998 cc)
Horsepower Early:
140 hp @ 6500 rpm
Horsepower Late:
142 hp @ 6500 rpm (USDM), 150 hp @ 6500 rpm (California/High Output)
Torque Early:
115 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Torque Late:
117 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (USDM), 125 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (High Output)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Recommended Fuel:
87-91 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Engine Management:
ECU controlled ignition and fuel injection.
Valvetrain:
Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves.
Standard Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual
Optional Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic
Manual Transmission Features:
Short-throw shifter, close-ratio gearing for sporty feel.
Drivetrain:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD).
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
Mazda GL-5 75W-90 Gear Oil (or equivalent)
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
Dexron III or equivalent
NHTSA Frontal Crash Rating:
4-star driver, 4-star passenger (for models equipped with dual airbags)
Brake System:
Ventilated front discs, solid rear discs. ABS standard on most models.
Traction Control:
Optional on some models.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags standard on most later models of this generation.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and pop-up roll bars behind headrests.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional Bose premium sound system on some trims.
Navigation:
Not typically available from factory on this generation.
Cruise Control:
Available on most models.
Auxiliary Input:
Rarely available from factory, aftermarket solutions common.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Check every 30,000 miles, replace as needed or every 60,000 miles. Automatic: Every 30,000-50,000 miles.
Coolant Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable (Chain-driven camshafts).
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.0 US quarts (3.8 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Coolant or equivalent (Green ethylene glycol-based).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Concerns:
Oil consumption (especially earlier models), cam angle sensor failure, radiator leaks, convertible top wear, ignition coil failure, AC system issues.
Spark Plug Gap:
0.039 - 0.043 inches (1.0 - 1.1 mm)
Tire Pressure Front Rear:
Typically 30-32 psi (check door jamb sticker for exact values).
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x100 mm (4.45 inches)
Mazda Sports Car Legacy:
Continues the legacy of affordable, lightweight, driver-focused sports cars established by the Mazda Cosmo Sport and RX-7.
Nb Generation Introduction:
Introduced for the 1999 model year, replacing the NA generation. Featured a more modern design, improved aerodynamics, and updated interior.
Facelifts And Updates:
Significant facelift in 2001 (2002 model year) including improved aerodynamics, introduction of the 2.0L engine (USDM), and revised interior styling.
Production Years Generation:
1998-2005 (for model years 1999-2005).
Manufacturing Location:
Hiroshima, Japan.
