Segment:
Lightweight Sports Car / Roadster
Reputation:
Iconic, driver-focused, affordable sports car
Key Competitors:
Porsche Boxster (higher end), Honda S2000 (performance focus), BMW Z3 (luxury focus), Toyota MR2 Spyder (mid-engine focus)
Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai ('horse and rider as one') driving philosophy
Chassis:
Lightweight, balanced chassis with rear-wheel drive
Engine Placement:
Front-mid engine configuration
Convertible:
Standard soft-top convertible, optional hardtop
Engine:
Mechanical, Lubrication, Cooling, Intake Air, Fuel, Exhaust, Emission Control
Transmission:
Manual and Automatic (details for both expected)
Drivetrain:
Driveshafts, Differential, Axles
Suspension:
Front and Rear Suspension components, alignment
Steering:
Steering system components, power steering
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, parking brake
Electrical:
Starting and Charging, Ignition, Lighting, Instrumentation, Body Electrical, ECUs
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning system
Body:
Body panels, doors, interior trim, convertible top (likely)
General:
General Information, Safety Precautions, Torque Specifications
Troubleshooting:
Comprehensive troubleshooting guides and flowcharts
Engine Repair:
Engine overhaul, component replacement (pistons, rods, bearings, valves, camshafts, seals)
Fuel System Repair:
Fuel pump, injectors, throttle body, fuel lines
Cooling System Repair:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant flush
Transmission Repair:
Clutch replacement, transmission disassembly/assembly, fluid changes
Brake Repair:
Brake pad/rotor replacement, caliper service, brake fluid flush, ABS bleeding
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, sensor diagnosis
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Depth:
Extensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds)
Diagnostics:
Advanced diagnostic procedures, including electrical system troubleshooting
Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and part numbers
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Engine Codes:
BP-Z3 (NB8A), BP-VE (NB8B - likely minor updates)
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1839 cc)
Horsepower Nb8A:
140 hp @ 6500 rpm (approximate)
Torque Nb8A:
119 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (approximate)
Horsepower Nb8B:
142 hp @ 6500 rpm (approximate, slight increase)
Torque Nb8B:
125 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (approximate, slight increase)
Induction:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane recommended)
Timing System:
Timing Belt (periodic replacement required)
Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated dry single plate clutch
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 (e.g., Mazda Genuine Gear Oil, Castrol SYNTRAX UNIVERSAL 75W-90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III / Mercon compatible (e.g., Mazda ATF J, Mobil ATF 3309)
Length:
3955 mm (155.7 in)
Height:
1230 mm (48.4 in) (soft top)
Wheelbase:
2265 mm (89.2 in)
Curb Weight:
1020 - 1080 kg (2250 - 2380 lbs) (approximate, depending on trim/options)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
N/A (Typically not specified for sports cars in this class)
Trunk Volume:
150 Liters (5.3 cu ft) (approximate)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4 Stars (Driver), 4 Stars (Passenger) (1999 models)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (1999 models)
ABS:
Standard on most models, optional on early NB8A
Traction Control:
Optional on some later models
Airbags:
Dual front airbags (driver and passenger), side airbags (optional on some models)
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and pop-up roll hoops behind headrests
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first
Oil Filter Replacement:
With every oil change
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles or annually
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 - 90,000 miles or 6-7 years (critical preventive maintenance)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 24 months or as needed
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH/SJ/SL/SM/SN, ILSAC GF-2/GF-3/GF-4, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to manual for climate specifics)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.0 Liters (4.2 US Quarts) with filter change (approximate)
Coolant Type:
Mazda Long Life Coolant (Blue) or equivalent OAT/HOAT coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Coolant Capacity:
5.3 Liters (5.6 US Quarts) (approximate)
Engine Oil Consumption:
Some NB models can consume oil, especially at higher mileage; regular checks are crucial. Piston ring wear can be a cause.
Timing Belt:
Belt failure can cause catastrophic engine damage. Adherence to replacement intervals is vital.
Rear Main Seal:
Can develop leaks over time, particularly after clutch replacement.
Radiator:
Plastic end tanks can become brittle and crack, leading to coolant leaks.
Convertible Top Latches:
Latches can become stiff or break; lubrication and adjustment are often needed.
Power Window Motors:
Can be a point of failure over time.
Mazda Sports Car Legacy:
Following the success of the NA (1989-1997) generation, the MX-5 Miata established Mazda's reputation for affordable, reliable, and fun-to-drive sports cars.
Nb Introduction:
The NB generation debuted in 1998, retaining the core formula of its predecessor but with significant styling and engineering updates.
Nb Facelift:
A significant facelift occurred in 2000 (for the 2001 model year), often referred to as NB2, featuring revised styling, projector headlights, and chassis enhancements.
Nb8B Designation:
The 'NB8B' designation typically refers to later NB models, potentially incorporating the facelift updates or specific regional market configurations.
Production Years:
1998-2005
Manufacturing Location:
Hiroshima, Japan
Car And Driver 10Best:
Named to Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times during its production run.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
Not a specific winner, but consistently praised in reviews.
Driver Enthusiast Reviews:
Universally praised for its handling, steering feel, and driver engagement.
