Segment:
Compact, rear-wheel-drive sports convertible. Known for affordability, lightweight design, and engaging driving dynamics.
Rivals:
Lotus Elise (higher end), Porsche Boxster (higher end), Triumph TR7 (older), various smaller roadsters and sporty coupes of the era.
Driving Experience:
Emphasis on 'Jinba Ittai' (horse and rider as one), pure driving pleasure, excellent handling, balanced chassis, responsive steering.
Design:
Iconic Pininfarina-influenced styling, pop-up headlights, simple and driver-focused interior.
Target Audience:
Owners seeking to perform their own maintenance and repairs, enthusiasts looking for in-depth technical knowledge, and professional mechanics.
Engine:
Detailed diagnosis, repair, rebuilding of 1.8L B-series engine (BP-Z3), including timing, valve adjustments, fuel injection, ignition system, lubrication, cooling.
Transmission:
Repair and maintenance of 5-speed manual transmission, clutch system, driveline components.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension (double wishbone), steering system, wheel alignment, power steering.
Brakes:
Disc brake system (front and rear), parking brake, ABS system diagnosis and repair.
Electrical Electronics:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams, troubleshooting, starter, charging system, lighting, instruments, power windows, mirrors, anti-theft system.
Body Chassis:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, convertible top operation and repair, interior trim, chassis components.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system servicing, heating, ventilation.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid), filter replacements, spark plugs, belts.
Diagnostics:
Systematic troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation, electrical circuit testing.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for virtually all mechanical and electrical components.
Rebuilding:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission rebuilds.
Refurbishing Restoration:
Guidance for detailed component refurbishment and restoration efforts.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to complex engine and transmission overhauls.
Quality:
High Resolution PDF, full printable quality.
Searchable:
Likely searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval.
Printable:
All pages are printable.
Type:
Digital Download (PDF)
Type:
Not Applicable (Digital)
Operating Systems:
Compatible with all versions of Windows and Mac.
Software:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinRAR (for potential archive extraction).
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1839 cc)
Horsepower:
Approx. 130 HP @ 6500 RPM (US Spec)
Torque:
Approx. 115 lb-ft @ 5000 RPM (US Spec)
Injection:
Electronic Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended)
System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug (COP) or Distributor System depending on specific market/sub-model.
Length:
Approx. 3955 mm (155.7 in)
Width:
Approx. 1675 mm (65.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1235 mm (48.6 in) with soft top up
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2265 mm (89.2 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1050-1100 kg (2315-2425 lbs) depending on options
NHTSA Ratings:
NHTSA ratings for this era are often not directly comparable to modern standards. However, the NA Miata was known for its occupant protection in its class for the time, with features like reinforced A-pillars and optional side-impact bars.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some trims.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard for 1996 model year.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and factory roll bar behind seats for enhanced rollover protection.
Audio System:
Typically a basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player and 4 speakers. Optional CD player available on some higher trims.
Controls:
Analog controls for climate and audio.
Cruise Control:
Available on some models, typically electronically controlled.
Features:
Limited by era; no Bluetooth, USB, or advanced smartphone integration.
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, refer to manual for precise interval based on driving conditions.
Transmission Fluid:
Manual: Check periodically, replace every 60,000-100,000 miles. Automatic: Check periodically, replace every 30,000-60,000 miles.
Coolant Change:
Every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 60,000 - 100,000 miles, depending on type (standard vs. iridium).
Timing Belt:
Crucial maintenance item. Replace every 60,000 - 90,000 miles or 5-7 years. Failure can cause severe engine damage.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher. Viscosity: 5W-30 or 10W-30 recommended. Capacity: Approx. 4.2 US quarts (4.0 liters) with filter change.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil. Capacity: Approx. 2.1 US quarts (2.0 liters).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III (or equivalent). Capacity: Approx. 3.5 US quarts (3.3 liters) for a drain and fill.
Coolant:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Mazda Long Life Coolant or equivalent). Mix 50/50 with distilled water. Capacity: Approx. 6.5 US quarts (6.2 liters).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III (or equivalent).
Rust:
Common areas include rocker panels, rear fender arches, and sills, especially in regions with road salt.
Pop Up Headlights:
Actuator motors and linkages can fail, requiring repair or replacement.
Rear Main Seal Leak:
Can occur with age and mileage.
Clutch Master Cylinder:
Can leak, affecting clutch operation.
Radiator:
Original radiators can become clogged or develop leaks over time.
Focus:
Mazda's commitment to driver-focused, lightweight sports cars, inspired by classic British roadsters.
Generation Na:
The 1996 model year represents the later part of the NA generation (1989-1997), which received updates including larger engines and minor styling revisions. The 1.8L engine was introduced in 1994 for North America.
Manufacturing Location:
Hofu, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan
Production Years Na:
1989-1997
