🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

MX-5 Miata

Model Code:

NA (NB generation first year, but this manual focuses on the later NA era)

Year:

1994

Generation:

NA (1st Generation)

Generation Years:

1989-1997

Vin Decoder Prefix:

JM1

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Mazda MX-5 Miata (NA generation) revolutionized the affordable sports car segment, offering pure driving enjoyment and reliability. This parts catalog is essential for owners and specialists maintaining these iconic vehicles.

Iconic Status:

The MX-5 Miata is widely considered one of the most significant and beloved sports cars of the modern era, credited with reviving the lightweight, affordable roadster segment. This manual is vital for preserving its legacy.

Target Demographic:

Enthusiasts seeking an affordable, lightweight, and engaging driving experience; individuals who appreciate classic automotive design and purist sports car feel.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed with vehicles like the Toyota MR2, Nissan 300ZX (though a class above), and various European roadsters, but distinguished itself with its front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, accessible price point, and focus on lightweight simplicity.

Key Features:

Lightweight construction, excellent chassis balance, rear-wheel-drive, convertible top, reliable mechanicals, high enthusiast appeal.

Driving Experience:

Renowned for its 'Jinba Ittai' (horse and rider as one) philosophy, emphasizing driver feedback, precise steering, and balanced handling over raw power.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Chassis, Body, Engine (primary), Collision Guide (bonus for 1991 models)

Page Count:

N/A (Typically between 300-800 pages for a full IPL, but specific count not provided)

Manual Type:

Parts Catalog (Illustrated Parts List - IPL)

Language:

English

Format:

Printed

Bonus Content Description:

Includes a Collision Guide specific to 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata models, offering valuable repair and structural information for accident damage that may overlap with 1994 models, particularly for body panel replacements and structural integrity.

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine mechanical components, cooling system, fuel system, intake and exhaust, drivetrain (transmission, driveshaft, differentials), suspension components, steering system, braking system, chassis frame and subframes, body panels (exterior and interior), electrical system components (wiring harness, switches, sensors), interior trim, HVAC components, convertible top mechanism.

Body And Chassis:

All exterior body panels, inner structure, frame rails, bumpers, fenders, doors, hood, trunk lid, convertible top frame and associated hardware, glass and seals, mounting brackets, subframes (front and rear), suspension arms, links, anti-roll bars, steering rack and column components.

Engine And Drivetrain:

Engine block, cylinder head, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshafts, valves, timing system (chain or belt depending on specific engine variant), oil pump, oil pan, cooling system (radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses), fuel delivery system (injectors, fuel rail, fuel pump, fuel filter), intake manifold, exhaust manifold, exhaust system components, clutch assembly, flywheel, transmission case, gear sets, shift forks, driveshafts, universal joints, differential assembly.

Electrical And Accessories:

Wiring harnesses (engine bay, chassis, interior), relays, fuses, starter motor, alternator, ignition system components (coil packs, spark plug wires), various sensors (crankshaft position, camshaft position, coolant temp, etc.), lighting components (headlights, taillights, indicators), switches (window, door lock, ignition), wiper system components, horn, basic interior electrical components.

Interior Components:

Seats, dashboard assembly, center console, door panels, headliner (if applicable), carpeting, seat belts, steering wheel, instrument cluster, HVAC controls, audio system components, interior trim pieces, pedal assembly.

Procedures Included:

Identification of genuine Mazda replacement parts using exploded diagrams and part numbers, component relationships, assembly sequences visualized through exploded views. The bonus collision guide provides repair information for structural and body panel repair specific to 1991 models.

Identification Of Oem Parts:

Provides detailed exploded views showing the exact layout and connection of every component, facilitating the correct identification of genuine Mazda Original Equipment (OE) parts. Each part is assigned a unique part number for ordering.

Part Number Lookup:

Users can cross-reference visually depicted parts with their corresponding Mazda part numbers. This is crucial for ordering the correct replacement components from dealerships or specialized suppliers.

Assembly Visualization:

The exploded diagrams offer clear insights into how various assemblies are put together, which can be indirectly helpful for understanding repair sequences, even though it's not a step-by-step repair guide.

Technical Depth:

High (for parts identification and OEM component relationships). It's a parts catalog, not a repair manual, so it focuses on what parts are used and where they go, not how to perform repairs. The collision guide offers specific repair procedures.

Component Relationships:

Excellent detail on how parts relate to each other within larger assemblies (e.g., how suspension arms connect to the subframe and hub carrier).

Fastener Details:

While not always explicitly listing torque specs, IPLs typically show the type and quantity of fasteners used in assemblies, aiding in reassembly.

Schematic Diagrams:

Focuses on pictorial diagrams (exploded views) rather than electrical or hydraulic schematics, which are typically found in separate service manuals.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

N/A (This is a printed manual)

Print Quality:

Typically good quality, designed for workshop use with clear line drawings and part numbers.

Binding Type:

Likely comb-bound or stapled for workshop use, potentially hardcover for dealer copies.

Paper Type:

Durable paper stock suitable for workshop environments.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

1.6L DOHC Inline-4 (B6ZE)

Horsepower:

115 hp @ 6500 rpm (for the 1.6L NA model)

Torque:

100 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (for the 1.6L NA model)

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Engine Codes:

B6ZE (1.6L)

Engine Design:

Inline-4, DOHC, 16 valves

Engine Placement:

Front-engine, Rear-wheel-drive (FR)

Bore Stroke:

78.0 mm x 83.6 mm (1.6L)

Compression Ratio:

9.4:1 (1.6L)

Cooling System Type:

Pressurized liquid cooling system.

Ignition System Type:

Electronic ignition with distributor (on early 1.6L models) or distributorless ignition system (DIS) on later variants or optional engines.

Engine Variations 1994:

The 1.6L (B6ZE) was the primary engine. A 1.8L engine (BP-ZE) was introduced in 1993 for some markets, offering more power. This IPL would cover either or both depending on its scope.

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic

Transmission Features:

The 5-speed manual is renowned for its short, precise throws, contributing significantly to the car's tactile driving experience. The automatic transmission was less common and generally not preferred by enthusiasts.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

3950 mm (155.5 in)

Width:

1675 mm (66.0 in)

Height:

1235 mm (48.6 in)

Wheelbase:

2265 mm (89.2 in)

Front Overhang:

Approx. 835 mm (32.9 in)

Rear Overhang:

Approx. 850 mm (33.5 in)

Ground Clearance:

Approx. 140 mm (5.5 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1000 kg (2205 lbs)

Weight Distribution:

Near 50/50 front/rear for optimal handling.

Front Axle Load:

Approx. 500 kg (1100 lbs)

Rear Axle Load:

Approx. 500 kg (1100 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

NHTSA ratings varied by year and specific tests, but generally considered safe for its class and era. Early models had some concerns regarding side impact protection due to its compact design.

Active Features:

Four-wheel disc brakes (ABS optional on some late NA models), balanced chassis.

Brake System Front:

Ventilated Disc Brakes

Brake System Rear:

Solid Disc Brakes

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4x100 mm

Wheel Offset:

ET38-45 (typical)

Passive Features:

Seat belts, reinforced A-pillars and windshield frame, driver-side airbag (standard from 1990 in some markets, optional in others), passenger-side airbag became optional later in the NA generation.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player was standard. Optional CD player became available on later models or as an aftermarket upgrade. Speaker systems were typically modest.

Driver Assistance:

Very limited for its era. ABS was optional on some later NA models. No advanced electronic driver aids like traction control or stability control were available.

Connectivity:

N/A. No provisions for Bluetooth, USB, or mobile device integration were factory standard.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals:

Regular oil changes (approx. 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months), transmission fluid changes (approx. 30,000-60,000 miles), differential fluid changes (approx. 30,000-60,000 miles), coolant flushes (approx. 30,000-60,000 miles), spark plugs (approx. 60,000-100,000 miles), timing belt (critical, approx. 60,000 miles or 5 years - requires careful verification as B6ZE engines often had a timing chain, but some sources indicate belts on certain variants. This manual would clarify exact components). Mazda recommended checking or replacing belts and hoses based on condition and mileage.

Engine Oil Specification:

API SG/SH, ILSAC GF-I or higher. Viscosity: 10W-30 is typical, though 5W-30 or 5W-40 may be recommended for colder climates. Capacity: Approx. 3.5-3.9 quarts (3.3-3.7 liters) with filter.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 is common. Capacity: Approx. 1.5-1.9 quarts (1.4-1.8 liters).

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III/Mercon. Capacity: Approx. 3.0-3.5 quarts (2.8-3.3 liters) for a drain and fill.

Differential Fluid:

API GL-5 gear oil, SAE 90 or 80W-90. Capacity: Approx. 1.0-1.2 quarts (0.9-1.1 liters).

Coolant Specification:

Ethylene glycol based, with corrosion inhibitors. Mazda recommends a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water. Mazda coolant type: FL22 (though this was more common in later models, the principle applies).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4. Capacity: Approx. 0.7-1.0 liter (for complete flush).

Power Steering Fluid:

N/A (MX-5 Miata NA models generally do not have power steering as standard, it was an option on some later models. If equipped, would use a dedicated power steering fluid or Dexron type).

Known Issues:

Rocker arm wear (especially on early 1.6L engines), subframe rust, window motor issues, radiator leaks, oil pan rust, cambelt tensioner issues (if applicable), clutch wear, coolant hose degradation, interior plastics cracking due to sun exposure, soft top wear and tear.

Interior Wear:

Worn driver's seat bolster, faded dashboard plastics, sticky interior buttons, deteriorating door seals.

Convertible Top:

Fabric degradation, leaks, torn rear window (if plastic), worn frame bushings, difficult operation.

Part Number Example Oil Filter:

Mazda OEM: B631-14-302 (example, actual number may vary based on specific revision or regional market).

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mazda has a history of producing lightweight, driver-focused cars, exemplified by the Cosmo Sport and RX-7. The MX-5 Miata built upon this legacy, bringing affordable open-top motoring back to prominence.

Model Evolution:

The NA generation (1989-1997) established the fundamental formula. The 1994 model year saw minor updates, often including enhancements to the chassis or minor interior revisions, but the core mechanicals remained largely consistent with earlier NA models. This parts catalog is specific to the 1994 model year, reflecting any unique parts or revisions.

Facelifts And Updates:

The 1994 model year falls within the latter half of the NA generation. Updates for this period often included minor interior trim revisions, improved sound deadening, and potentially slight chassis stiffening. The engine received minor updates over the NA run for emissions and reliability.

Production Years:

1989-1997 (NA Generation)

Production Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times throughout its production run. Consistently praised for its driving dynamics, affordability, and reliability.

Ratings:

Highly rated by automotive journalists and enthusiasts for its pure driving experience, often described as a modern interpretation of classic British roadsters.

Certifications:

N/A (Not applicable for a parts catalog).