Segment:
Lightweight sports car, roadster.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, classic car owners, restoration shops, DIY mechanics specializing in the MX-5 Miata.
Era Competitors:
Lotus Elan M100, Porsche 944, Alfa Romeo Spider, Toyota MR2 (W20).
Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai ('horse and rider as one') - driver-centric experience, purity of driving.
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides the definitive resource for identifying original Mazda parts for collision repair and restoration, ensuring authenticity and correct fitment.
Supported Years:
1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997
Estimated Page Count:
Over 500
Type:
Collision Parts / Illustrated Parts Catalog (IPL)
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, searchable)
Engine And Drivetrain:
Engine assembly, cooling, lubrication, fuel, exhaust, transmission (manual & automatic), differential, driveshafts.
Chassis And Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, steering system, wheel bearings, subframes, anti-roll bars.
Brakes And Wheels:
Brake system components (calipers, rotors, lines), parking brake, wheels, tires, hub assemblies.
Body And Exterior:
Body panels (hood, fenders, doors, trunk lid, bumpers), exterior trim, glass, convertible top mechanism, lights, mirrors, wipers.
Interior And Comfort:
Dashboard, seats, seat belts, interior trim panels, steering column, pedals, HVAC system components, audio system components.
Electrical And Lighting:
Wiring harnesses, lighting components (headlights, taillights, interior lights), fuses, relays, switches, starter, alternator.
Parts Identification:
Identification of all genuine Mazda replacement parts with exploded diagrams and corresponding part numbers.
Collision Repair Focus:
Specifically tailored for identifying parts required for collision repair, accident damage assessment, and restoration.
Component Assembly:
Visual representation of how components fit together, crucial for accurate replacement and reassembly after damage.
Level Of Detail:
High, with detailed visual breakdowns of every system and subsystem, focusing on interchangeability and exact part specifications.
Application:
Essential for body shops, collision repair technicians, and owners undertaking significant restoration or repair work.
Displacement:
1598 cc (1.6 Liters)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16 valves
Horsepower:
114 hp @ 6500 rpm (1990-1993), 118 hp @ 6500 rpm (1994-1995), 114 hp @ 6500 rpm (1996-1997)
Torque:
100 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (1990-1993), 100 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (1994-1995), 100 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (1996-1997)
Induction:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Transmission Type:
5-speed manual (Getrag MTX-75 based, but Mazda specific)
Transmission Type:
4-speed automatic (Optional on some models)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated single dry plate
Differential:
Viscous coupling limited-slip differential (LSD) was optional on some trims and standard on R-package models.
NHTSA Front Impact:
4-star (driver), 4-star (passenger) in some early tests, but data varies.
Braking System:
Front: Ventilated discs; Rear: Solid discs. ABS was optional on early models and became standard on later 1996-1997 models.
Steering System:
Power-assisted rack and pinion.
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag standard from 1990. Passenger-side airbag introduced later in the generation (around 1996).
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and optional factory-style roll bar or aftermarket units.
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts.
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM cassette player, often with 4 or 6 speakers depending on trim. Optional CD player available later in the generation.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System was optional on early models, standard on 1996-1997 models.
Connectivity Features:
Very basic for the era; no integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Primarily analog systems.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plugs:
Every 30,000 miles (Platinum recommended).
Timing Belt:
Crucial component for B6ZE engine. Replacement recommended every 60,000 miles or 5 years due to non-interference design, but failure can still cause significant damage.
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific climate recommendations). Capacity: 3.5 US quarts (3.3 L) with filter.
Coolant:
Mazda Long Life Coolant or equivalent (ethylene glycol based, pink/red color). Capacity: Approx. 6.0 US quarts (5.7 L).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-5 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90. Capacity: Approx. 2.1 US quarts (2.0 L).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III ATF or equivalent. Capacity: Approx. 4.0 US quarts (3.8 L) for initial fill.
Differential Fluid:
GL-5 Gear Oil, SAE 80W-90. Capacity: Approx. 1.1 US quarts (1.0 L).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4. Capacity: Approx. 0.5 US quarts (0.5 L).
Rust Prone Areas:
Rocker panels, rear fender lips, sills, floor pans, frame rails (especially in areas exposed to salt).
Engine Issues:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket, front crankshaft seal; occasional camshaft position sensor failure; piston ring wear leading to oil consumption in higher mileage vehicles.
Suspension Issues:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, and shock absorbers; noisy wheel bearings.
Electrical Issues:
Corroded grounds, faulty window regulators, intermittent dash warning lights, failing alternator and starter motor.
Convertible Top:
Stiff or torn seals, leaky drain tubes, worn or broken frame components, difficult operation.
Mazda Philosophy:
Mazda's long history of producing reliable and engaging vehicles, carrying forward the spirit of lightweight sports cars.
Na Generation Launch:
Introduced in 1989 for the 1990 model year, revitalizing the affordable roadster market.
Major Updates:
Minor cosmetic and mechanical updates throughout the generation: e.g., power bumps (1994), revised headlights, improved brakes and clutch, introduction of passenger airbag (late in generation).
Production Years:
1989-1997
Manufacturing Location:
Hiroshima, Japan
Sales Figures Global:
Over 400,000 units sold globally during its production run.
Car And Driver Ten Best:
Named to Car and Driver's 'Ten Best' list multiple times (e.g., 1992, 1993).
Automotive Journalism Praise:
Consistently lauded by automotive journalists for its handling, reliability, and pure driving experience.
