Vehicle Segment:
Compact, rear-wheel-drive, two-seater sports convertible.
Key Selling Points:
Affordable, fun-to-drive, reliable, engaging driving dynamics, open-top motoring.
Key Competitors:
Honda S2000 (later model), Toyota MR2 Spyder, Porsche Boxster (higher price bracket), Alfa Romeo Spider.
Manual Value Proposition:
Essential resource for owners and mechanics needing to identify, source, and order genuine Mazda parts for the 1999 MX-5 Miata, significantly simplifying maintenance and restoration efforts. The inclusion of a collision guide adds considerable value for repair planning.
Manual Availability:
Rare and highly sought-after by enthusiasts and specialists due to its specific applicability and the enduring popularity of the MX-5 Miata.
Manual Type:
Parts Catalog / Illustrated Parts List (IPL)
Coverage Scope:
Chassis, Body, Engine, and Collision Information
Estimated Page Count:
300-500 pages (estimated for a comprehensive IPL)
Engine Components:
Engine block, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valves, oil system, cooling system, intake manifold, exhaust manifold, fuel injectors, ignition system components.
Drivetrain Components:
Transmission (manual and automatic, if applicable), clutch assembly, driveshafts, differential, axles.
Chassis Components:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, wheels, tires, brakes (front and rear discs, calipers, master cylinder), frame, subframes.
Body Components:
Body panels (hood, fenders, doors, trunk lid), bumpers, grille, lighting (headlights, taillights, indicators), glass (windshield, side windows, rear window), interior trim, convertible top mechanism (if applicable).
Electrical Components:
Wiring harnesses, fuses, relays, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting controls, switches, sensors (though less detailed in an IPL than a service manual).
Part Identification:
Detailed identification of all original factory parts with corresponding part numbers.
Assembly Disassembly Views:
Exploded views illustrating how components fit together for assembly and disassembly, crucial for parts ordering and understanding component relationships.
Collision Repair Guidance:
Specific information on collision repair, likely detailing panel replacement sequences, alignment points, and potentially structural repair considerations. This bonus section is highly valuable for body shops and DIYers.
Depth Level:
Component-level identification and sourcing. Focuses on 'what' part is needed and its designation, rather than 'how' to repair it (which would be in a service manual).
Digital Format:
N/A (Provided as a physical print manual)
Print Quality:
High-quality reproduction of original factory document, clear line drawings and legible text.
Binding:
Likely a professionally bound document (e.g., spiral-bound, perfect-bound) for ease of use.
Paper Stock:
Durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments.
Engine Code:
BP-Z3 (1.8L DOHC)
Displacement:
1839 cc (1.8 Liters)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16 valves
Horsepower:
140 hp @ 6500 rpm (U.S. Spec)
Torque:
119 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (U.S. Spec)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane recommended)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant (e.g., Mazda FL22 or equivalent)
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 API SG or SH, ILSAC GF-II
Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change
Transmission Type:
5-speed Manual Transmission (MX-5 Miata 'Standard')
Transmission Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (Optional on some trims)
Manual Transmission Fluid Spec:
Mazda GL-5 Gear Oil 75W-90 or equivalent
Automatic Transmission Fluid Spec:
Dexron III or equivalent
Clutch Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid
Length:
157.7 inches (4005 mm)
Width:
66.1 inches (1679 mm)
Height:
49.8 inches (1265 mm)
Wheelbase:
89.2 inches (2265 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 2337 lbs (1060 kg) for manual transmission models
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not readily available for this model year, typically higher than curb weight.
Trunk Capacity:
4.7 cubic feet (133 liters)
NHTSA Front Impact Rating:
4 Stars (for 1999 model year, specific details may vary by test conditions)
IIHS Ratings:
Good (for front and side impact, typical for this era's well-engineered small sports cars)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) - Standard on most models
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS) - Optional on some models
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Airbags
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced windshield frame and pop-up rollover hoops behind the seats (standard for NB generation)
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM/CD stereo system. Some models may have an optional premium audio package.
Climate Control:
Manual air conditioning and heating controls.
Cruise Control:
Available on some trim levels.
Aux Input:
Typically not present on factory 1999 head units; aftermarket solutions are common.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).
Air Filter Replacement:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) for platinum-tipped plugs.
Timing Belt Replacement:
The BP-Z3 engine uses a timing chain, not a belt. No scheduled replacement is typically required for the chain itself, but tensioners and guides should be inspected periodically.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron II/III or equivalent (check owner's manual for exact spec)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, brake pad/rotor wear, suspension bushings, convertible top fabric/seals (especially in older, high-mileage examples), radiator (can develop leaks over time).
Engine Reliability:
The BP-Z3 engine is generally robust, but maintenance of the cooling system and oil changes are critical for longevity. Variable Valve Timing (VVT) issues are more common on later NB models (2001+), but proper oil changes are still paramount for the 1999.
Oil Filter Part Number Example:
Mazda Original: B6Y1-14-302A, Aftermarket example: Wix 51515, Fram PH7317
Mazda Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai ('Horse and Rider as One') - emphasizing the driver's connection to the car.
Nb Generation Introduction:
The NB generation was introduced for the 1999 model year, replacing the NA generation. It featured a more aerodynamic design, increased rigidity, and updated styling.
Nb Styling Changes:
Round headlights of the NA were replaced with more modern fixed headlights. Body lines were sharper and more contemporary.
Manufacturing Location:
Hiroshima, Japan
Production Period For Nb:
1998-2005 (for model years 1999-2005)
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Mazda MX-5 Miata (across generations) has frequently appeared on Car and Driver's 10Best list for its exceptional value and driving dynamics, including the NB generation.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
While not a direct winner, the Miata's impact and class creation often earned it favorable comparisons and awards within its segment.
Vehicle Design Awards:
The NB generation's design was well-received, contributing to its sustained popularity and market relevance.
