🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

MX-5

Model Code:

NA (First Generation)

Year:

1993

Chassis Code:

NA8C (for 1.8L models)

Engine Code Primary:

BP-ZE (1.8L DOHC)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Lightweight Sports Car / Roadster

Philosophy:

Jinba Ittai - 'Horse and Rider as One', emphasizing driver connection and nimble handling.

Competitors:

Lotus Elan, Triumph TR7, Alfa Romeo Spider, Fiat X1/9 (historically), early Miatas set a new standard for affordable, reliable roadsters.

Body Style:

Two-seater convertible sports car.

Drivetrain:

Rear-wheel drive (RWD).

Chassis Design:

Lightweight, balanced chassis with front-mid engine placement.

Performance Focus:

Emphasis on handling and driver engagement over brute power.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive Service and Repair

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific publication, typically 500-1500+ pages for a full factory service manual.

Type:

Full Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine removal/installation, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt, lubrication system, cooling system.

Engine Performance:

Fuel injection system, ignition system, emission controls, turbocharging (if applicable to specific sub-models).

Transmission Manual:

Clutch, gearbox overhaul, shift linkage, drive axles, differential.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission overhaul, torque converter, control systems (if applicable).

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Brake system diagnosis, front and rear brake components (discs, calipers, pads), parking brake, ABS system (if equipped).

Steering:

Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, steering column, wheel alignment.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrumentation, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal/installation, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, chassis components, rust prevention.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair.

Body Electrical:

Power windows, mirrors, locks, convertible top operation (if applicable).

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement.

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting guides for common problems, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), testing procedures for various components.

Repair And Rebuild:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for component repair and full engine/transmission rebuilds.

Component Replacement:

Instructions for replacing major components like alternators, starters, water pumps, fuel pumps, etc.

Torque Specifications:

Precise torque values for all critical fasteners and bolts.

Alignment Procedures:

Wheel alignment specifications and procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full mechanical rebuilds and advanced diagnostics.

Diagnostics Level:

Advanced diagnostic procedures, including symptom-based troubleshooting and component testing.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format Details:

Digital PDF, typically searchable and bookmarkable.

Quality:

High-resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline-4 (DOHC)

Displacement:

1839 cc (1.8 Liters)

Bore X Stroke:

83.0 mm x 85.0 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.4:1

Valvetrain:

DOHC, 16 valves.

Power Output:

131 hp (97 kW) @ 6500 rpm (for US-spec 1.8L models)

Torque Output:

113 lb-ft (153 Nm) @ 4500 rpm (for US-spec 1.8L models)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating as per owner's manual, typically 87+).

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.2 US quarts (4.0 Liters) with filter change.

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 6.1 US quarts (5.8 Liters).

Recommended Spark Plugs:

NGK BP5EYA-9 (or equivalent).

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual Transmission.

Type:

4-speed Automatic Transmission (less common for enthusiasts).

Manual Gear Ratios:

First: 3.136, Second: 1.870, Third: 1.300, Fourth: 1.000, Fifth: 0.865, Reverse: 3.111 (approximate for '93 MY).

Final Drive Ratio:

4.300:1 (for manual transmission models).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (e.g., Mobil 1 Synthetic Gear Lube).

Manual Transmission Capacity:

Approx. 2.0 US quarts (1.9 Liters).

📐 Dimensions

Length:

3950 mm (155.5 in)

Width:

1675 mm (65.9 in)

Height:

1235 mm (48.6 in)

Wheelbase:

2265 mm (89.2 in)

Front Track:

1430 mm (56.3 in)

Rear Track:

1435 mm (56.5 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1020-1050 kg (2250-2315 lbs) depending on options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 1400 kg (3086 lbs).

Standard Tire Size:

185/60R14 (common for 1993 models).

Wheel Size:

14 x 5.5 inches (standard).

Bolt Pattern:

4 x 100 mm.

Offset:

ET35-45 (typical).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Official ratings for this era are scarce, but the NA Miata is known for its robust chassis for its size and weight class. Frontal impact protection is basic by modern standards.

ABS:

Optional on some early models, standard on later or higher trims in certain markets.

Traction Control:

Not typically available on 1993 models.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag standard for 1993 models in many markets. Passenger airbag not available.

Rollover Protection:

Pop-up or reinforced windshield frame, but no factory-integrated roll bar or cage for this specific year. Aftermarket solutions are common.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player. Aftermarket head unit upgrades are very common.

Speakers:

Typically 4 speakers (two in the dashboard, two in the doors).

Cruise Control:

Optional on some models.

Bluetooth:

Not available from factory; requires aftermarket installation.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, depending on driving conditions.

Engine Oil Filter:

Replace with every oil change.

Air Filter:

Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed. Recommended replacement around 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Spark Plugs:

Inspect every 30,000 miles (48,000 km), replace as needed. Recommended replacement around 60,000 miles (96,000 km) with quality plugs.

Timing Belt:

Crucial! Replace every 60,000-90,000 miles (96,000-144,000 km) or 7 years, whichever comes first. Failure can cause catastrophic engine damage.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Manual: Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km). Automatic: Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Engine Oil Type:

API SG, SH or SJ; SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 recommended by Mazda for most climates. Check manual for specific recommendations.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Use a quality long-life coolant.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Rust Prone Areas:

Rocker panels, rear quarter panels, frame rails, wheel wells, especially in areas with road salt.

Cooling System:

Radiator leaks, heater core leaks, hoses degrading over time.

Electrical:

Worn wiring insulation, corrosion in connectors (especially around the headlights and engine bay), intermittent issues with window motors or power locks.

Engine Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gasket, rear main seal, oil pan gasket.

Clutch Components:

Clutch master cylinder leaks, slave cylinder leaks, worn clutch disk.

Suspension Bushings:

Wear in control arm bushings and sway bar bushings can lead to sloppy handling and clunking noises.

Oil Sludge:

Historically, some early BP engines could be prone to oil sludge buildup if maintenance intervals were neglected, especially with the 1.6L engine. Regular oil changes are critical for the 1.8L as well.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Philosophy:

Mazda's long history of producing reliable and driver-focused vehicles, including sports cars like the Cosmo Sport and RX-7.

Generation Introduction:

The first generation (NA) MX-5 Miata was introduced in 1989 for the 1990 model year.

1993 Updates:

The 1993 model year saw the introduction of the 1.8L BP-ZE engine, replacing the earlier 1.6L B6ZE. This was a significant upgrade in power and torque. Driver's side airbag became standard in many markets.

Manufacturing Location:

Hiroshima, Japan.

Production Years:

NA Generation: 1989-1997.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver:

'Car and Driver' magazine's Ten Best list multiple times during its production run.

Roadster Revival:

Widely credited with reviving the affordable roadster market in the 1990s.

Reliability:

Generally considered highly reliable, especially compared to contemporary European sports cars, due to its straightforward engineering and quality Japanese manufacturing.