Market Position:
The 2002 Mazda Miata (NB generation) continued its legacy as a highly accessible, lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car, appealing to driving enthusiasts seeking pure driving pleasure and open-top motoring.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against vehicles like the Toyota MR2 Spyder, Porsche Boxster (at a higher price point), and other affordable roadsters. Its strength lay in its balanced chassis, responsive steering, and engaging driving dynamics.
Key Features:
Lightweight construction, rear-wheel drive, independent suspension, available hardtop, focus on driver engagement.
Coverage Areas:
Vehicle at a Glance, Essential Safety Equipment, Knowing Your Mazda, Before Driving Your Mazda, Driving Your Mazda, Interior Comfort, In Case of an Emergency, Maintenance and Care, Customer Information, Specifications, Index
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Systems Covered:
Interior/Exterior Views and Part Identification, Safety Equipment (Seats, Seat Belts, SRS Airbags, Child Restraints), Basic Operations and Controls, Instruments and Controls, Interior Comfort Features (Air Conditioning, Audio System), Emergency Procedures, Maintenance and Care, Customer Information (Warranties, Add-on Equipment), Vehicle Specifications
Procedures Included:
Opening/closing and adjustment of various parts, Use of safety equipment, Explanation of driving operations, Operation of comfort features, Emergency response steps, Routine maintenance and care procedures
Technical Depth:
Owner-level operation, maintenance, and safety information; basic troubleshooting for common issues. Does not cover detailed mechanical repair procedures or diagnostic codes.
Primary Engine:
1.8L (1839 cc) DOHC Inline-4 (BP-ZE)
Horsepower:
142 hp @ 6500 rpm (US Market)
Torque:
125 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (US Market)
Fuel Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline
Engine Control Unit:
ECU controlled ignition and fuel timing.
Cooling Medium:
Engine Coolant
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic, Dry, Single Plate
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (or as specified in the manual)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda M-III or equivalent (as specified in the manual)
Length:
Approx. 157.3 inches (4000 mm)
Width:
Approx. 66.1 inches (1680 mm)
Height:
Approx. 49.0 inches (1245 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 89.2 inches (2265 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2332 lbs (1058 kg) for manual transmission
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 4.7 cubic feet (133 liters)
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
4 Stars
NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger:
4 Stars
IIHS Moderate Overlap Front:
Acceptable
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger SRS Airbags
Seat Belts:
Three-point ELR (Emergency Locking Retractor) seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced windshield frame and pop-up rollover hoops behind headrests.
ABS:
Available Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all four wheels.
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS).
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, potentially with 6-speaker system. Options may include premium audio.
Climate Control:
Manual air conditioning and heating controls, designed for efficient cabin comfort in a small vehicle.
Cruise Control:
Available cruise control system for highway driving.
Aux Input:
Unlikely to have factory auxiliary input; aftermarket solutions may be available.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Engine Oil Filter Replacement:
Replace with every oil change.
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed (or every 30,000 miles).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. every 60,000 miles (refer to manual for specific plug type and gap).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years, whichever comes first.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, ILSAC GF-II or GF-III, SAE 5W-30 (check manual for viscosity under different temperature conditions).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent (if equipped with power steering).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, pre-mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Common Issues:
Rattling from heat shield on exhaust, oil leaks (valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), radiator issues (plastic tanks can crack), soft top wear and tear, window regulator problems, occasional electronic gremlins (e.g., ABS warning light).
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Mazda OEM B6Y1-14-302 (or equivalent from Mann, Bosch, etc.)
Air Filter Part Number Example:
Mazda OEM BP4L-13-320 (or equivalent)
Brand Heritage:
Mazda has a long history of producing sporty, driver-focused vehicles, with the Miata being its most iconic sports car, inspired by classic British roadsters.
Nb Generation Introduction:
The second generation (NB) Miata was introduced for the 1999 model year, featuring a more aerodynamic design, increased rigidity, and upgraded safety features.
2002 Updates:
The 2002 model year saw minor refinements, often including subtle aesthetic tweaks and potentially updated audio system options.
Production Period:
NB generation: 1998-2005
Manufacturing Location:
Hiroshima, Japan
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Mazda Miata (across generations) has frequently been featured on Car and Driver's '10Best' list for its exceptional value and driving dynamics.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
While not winning outright, the Miata has always been a strong contender and praised by MotorTrend for its spirit.
General Reputation:
Widely recognized as one of the best-selling and most beloved affordable sports cars of all time.
