Vehicle Class:
Lightweight two-seater sports car (Roadster/Convertible)
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking a pure, driver-focused sports car experience.
Primary Competitors:
Honda S2000, Porsche Boxster, BMW Z3, Toyota MR2 Spyder
Design Philosophy:
Jinba Ittai ('horse and rider as one') - focusing on driver engagement and feedback.
Chassis Type:
Lightweight, rear-wheel drive platform with near 50/50 weight distribution.
Body Style:
Convertible roadster with a soft-top as standard, optional hard-top availability.
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions, exhaust, ECU diagnostics
Transmission:
Manual transmission (types: M5/M6), clutch system, driveline, differential
Chassis:
Suspension (front/rear independent), steering system, brakes (front/rear disc), ABS
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, body electrical, infotainment system
Body:
Body construction, exterior trim, interior trim, doors, windows, convertible top mechanism
Body Control Modules:
Details on body control modules, interior/exterior lighting, power accessories, keyless entry (if equipped).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting flowcharts, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) lookup, symptom-based diagnosis
Repair:
Component removal and installation, adjustments, torque specifications, rebuild procedures
Specifications:
Detailed technical specifications for all major components and systems
Diagnostics OBD Ii:
Procedures for reading and clearing On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) trouble codes.
Depth:
Comprehensive; suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls.
Engine Code:
BP-Z3 (1.8L), BP-4W (1.8L, later models)
Engine Type:
Naturally aspirated, Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1839 cc)
Horsepower 1.8L:
140 hp @ 6500 rpm (BP-Z3), 142 hp @ 6500 rpm (BP-4W)
Torque 1.8L:
119 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (BP-Z3), 120 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (BP-4W)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (minimum)
ECU Type:
Mazda Electronic Control Unit (ECU)
Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (less common)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulic, Dry Single Plate Clutch
Gear Ratios:
Manual 5-speed: Typically around 3.136 (1st), 1.839 (2nd), 1.330 (3rd), 1.000 (4th), 0.769 (5th) - check specific model year.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 (e.g., Mazda Genuine Gear Oil JWS3309, or equivalent aftermarket)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III H or equivalent (check specific manual for exact type)
Length:
Approx. 3955 mm (155.7 in)
Width:
Approx. 1675 mm (65.9 in)
Height:
Approx. 1235 mm (48.6 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2265 mm (89.2 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1070 - 1150 kg (2359 - 2535 lbs), depending on equipment and transmission
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 150 Liters (5.3 cubic feet)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 Stars (for relevant model years)
IIHS Side Impact:
Good (for relevant model years, with side airbags)
ABS:
Standard on most models, Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Available on some models, especially later years or higher trims (TCS)
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard. Side airbags optional on some models.
Rollover Protection:
Pop-up rollover hoops behind headrests
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM/CD player, with optional premium sound system (e.g., Bose).
Display:
Basic digital clock and radio display. No integrated navigation or touchscreens for this era.
Cruise Control:
Available on higher trim levels.
Aux Input:
Not standard; aftermarket solutions common.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) with standard plugs, or 60,000 miles (96,000 km) with iridium plugs.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable; uses a timing chain.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, ILSAC GF-II, SAE 5W-30 or 5W-40 (check manual for specific ambient temperature recommendations)
Coolant Type:
Mazda Genuine Long Life Antifreeze (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific type)
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid)
Common Issues:
Oil seal leaks (rear main, front crank), coolant leaks (hose degradation, radiator), alternator failure, window regulator issues, soft top fabric wear, exhaust manifold cracks (early models), rust in common areas (wheel arches, sills).
Infamous Issue Nb:
Oil consumption can increase with mileage; diligent monitoring is advised.
Brand Focus:
Mazda has a long history of producing reliable and engaging vehicles, with a particular strength in sports car engineering.
Previous Generation:
NA generation (1989-1997)
Nb Generation Introduction:
Introduced in 1998 for the 1999 model year.
Nb Generation Facelift:
Facelifted for the 2001 model year (Phase 2), featuring updated styling, improved engine, and chassis tweaks.
Manufacturing Plant:
Hiroshima, Japan
Production Years:
1998-2005 (for NB generation)
