🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

MX-5 Miata

Generation:

NB

Platform Code:

NB

Chassis Code:

NB8C (North America)

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Subcompact sports car / Roadster.

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, restoration specialists, and professional repair shops.

Competitors:

Porsche Boxster, BMW Z3, Honda S2000 (later years), Triumph Spitfire (historically), MG MGB (historically).

Driving Experience:

Lightweight, rear-wheel-drive, balanced chassis, responsive handling, open-top motoring.

Manual Value Proposition:

Indispensable resource for maintaining and repairing the iconic Mazda MX-5 Miata NB generation, ensuring authenticity with OEM part numbers and detailed diagrams.

📋 Manual Details

Regions Covered:

Global (with focus on North American specifications where applicable)

Estimated Page Count:

500-800 (estimated based on typical parts catalog size for this era)

Type:

Parts Catalog / Parts Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF) or Printed

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Components:

Engine block, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, valves, timing system, oil pump, oil pan, intake manifold, exhaust manifold, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel delivery system, emission control components.

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual transmission (B6/FS-DE variants), clutch assembly, flywheel, driveshafts, differential, axles, shift linkage.

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension components (wishbones, springs, shock absorbers, anti-roll bar), rear suspension components (multi-link, springs, shock absorbers, anti-roll bar), steering rack, steering column, power steering components (if applicable).

Brakes:

Front and rear brake calipers, rotors, pads, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake system, ABS components (if equipped).

Electrical System:

Wiring harnesses, fuses, relays, battery, alternator, starter motor, ignition system components (coil packs, spark plugs), lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), switches, sensors.

Body Exterior:

Body panels (fenders, hood, doors, trunk lid), bumpers, grille, headlights, taillights, side mirrors, convertible top frame and mechanisms, glass, trim pieces, emblems.

Interior:

Seats, dashboard, center console, door panels, carpeting, headliner, climate control components (vents, heater core, evaporator), airbags, seat belts, interior trim pieces.

Wheels Tires:

Wheels (OEM specifications), lug nuts, valve stems.

Part Identification:

Identification of every single OEM part with corresponding part numbers.

Diagram Interpretation:

Detailed exploded diagrams for visual understanding of part relationships and assembly sequences.

Part Ordering Reference:

Essential reference for ordering correct replacement parts by manufacturer part number.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering all factory-supplied components for the specified model years. Detailed enough for parts lookup and understanding component relationships.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Likely PDF, optimized for searchability and printable pages.

Diagram Clarity:

Professional quality with high-resolution exploded diagrams allowing for magnification to view small components.

Physical Binding:

If printed, typically spiral-bound or perfect-bound for lay-flat usability in a workshop environment.

Physical Paper:

If printed, durable paper stock suitable for shop use, often glossy for diagram clarity.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1997:

BP-ZE (1.8L DOHC 16-valve)

Engine Displacement 1997:

1839 cc (1.8 Liters)

Horsepower 1997:

140 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)

Torque 1997:

119 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approx.)

Engine Code 1998:

BP-ZE (1.8L DOHC 16-valve)

Engine Displacement 1998:

1839 cc (1.8 Liters)

Horsepower 1998:

140 hp @ 6000 rpm (approx.)

Torque 1998:

119 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (approx.)

Compression Ratio:

9.1:1

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Multi-point Injection (MPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (91 octane recommended)

Layout:

Inline 4-cylinder, front-mounted, longitudinal

ECM Type:

Engine Control Module (ECM) / Powertrain Control Module (PCM) - specific part numbers will be in manual.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed manual transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed automatic transmission (less common for enthusiasts)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulic, single-plate dry clutch

Gear Ratios Manual:

Specific ratios for 1st through 5th gear and reverse will be detailed in the manual.

Driveshaft Configuration:

Rear-wheel drive (RWD)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 157.3 inches (4000 mm)

Width:

Approximately 66.1 inches (1680 mm)

Height:

Approximately 48.8 inches (1240 mm)

Wheelbase:

Approximately 89.2 inches (2265 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2337-2400 lbs (1060-1089 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Specific GVWR will be listed on vehicle compliance plate and in manual.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Front Impact:

Generally good for its class; specific ratings for 1997-98 NB Miata can vary by testing year and methodology, consult NHTSA archives for definitive data.

NHTSA Crash Test Side Impact:

Generally good for its class; specific ratings for 1997-98 NB Miata can vary by testing year and methodology, consult NHTSA archives for definitive data.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available on some trims or as an option.

Traction Control:

Traction Control System (TCS) available on some higher-trim models or as an option.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags.

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced A-pillars and behind-seat hoop for rollover protection.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Speaker component part numbers available.

Climate Control:

Manual or automatic climate control systems (depending on trim). Components like HVAC blower motors, heater cores, and evaporator cores are detailed.

Cruise Control:

Available on higher trims or as an option.

Wiring Harness Details:

The manual will detail all wiring harnesses for various systems, essential for troubleshooting electrical issues or installing aftermarket components.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6-12 months, whichever comes first. Consult the owner's manual for specific recommendations based on driving conditions.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Approximately every 60,000 miles or 5 years. Critical for preventing catastrophic engine damage. Part numbers for belt, tensioner, and idler pulleys are in the manual.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 30,000 - 60,000 miles depending on plug type. Recommended part numbers will be specified.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH rated, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 viscosity. Consult manual for precise specification and capacity (approx. 4.0 quarts).

Coolant Type:

Mazda long-life coolant or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water. Capacity approx. 5.4 quarts.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Capacity approx. 0.5 quarts.

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil. Capacity approx. 2.0 quarts.

Differential Fluid Type:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil. Capacity approx. 1.0 quart.

Common Wear Items:

Clutch wear, shifter bushings, brake pads and rotors, wheel bearings, exhaust system components, convertible top seals and mechanisms.

Engine Minor Issues:

Oil leaks (e.g., valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket), occasional vacuum leaks leading to idle issues. The BP engine is generally robust.

Radiator Concern:

Radiator can develop leaks over time, especially at the plastic end tanks. Part numbers for radiator and related hoses are essential.

Rust Prone Areas:

Rocker panels, rear wheel arches, frame rails, and sills are common areas for rust, especially in humid or road-salt-prone climates. Parts catalog is crucial for replacement body panels.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mazda's commitment to affordable, fun-to-drive sports cars, building on the legacy of the Lotus Elan and the original NA Miata.

Na To Nb Transition:

The NB generation (1999-2005) introduced a more modern design, improved aerodynamics, a stiffer chassis, and updated powertrains compared to the original NA Miata.

Nb Facelift:

A significant facelift occurred for the 2001 model year, including pop-up headlight removal, revised bumpers, and chassis enhancements. The 1997-1998 models represent the early NB variants before this major update.

Manufacturing Location:

Hiroshima, Japan

Production Years Nb Generation:

1998-2005

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The Miata (across generations) has been a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's '10Best' list, recognized for its driving dynamics and value.

Motor Trend Car Of The Year:

While not winning overall Car of the Year, the Miata consistently receives praise from automotive journalists for its segment.

Industry Standard:

Adheres to all applicable automotive industry standards for parts manufacturing and classification during its production era.