Segment:
Lightweight, rear-wheel-drive, two-seater convertible sports car.
Philosophy:
Affordable, pure driving experience inspired by classic British roadsters.
Key Competitors Era:
Lotus Elise (higher performance/price), Porsche Boxster (higher price), BMW Z3, Mercedes-Benz SLK, Nissan 350Z Roadster.
Design:
Iconic Pininfarina-inspired styling, compact dimensions, short wheelbase.
Powertrain:
Inline-four engine, rear-wheel drive, manual transmission as standard.
Chassis:
Lightweight construction, near 50/50 weight distribution, independent suspension.
Engine:
Basic operation, fluid levels, warning lights related to the engine.
Transmission:
Operation of manual transmission, clutch, parking brake.
Brakes:
Parking brake operation, basic brake system warnings.
Electrical:
Lighting controls, wipers, horn, power windows, power locks, audio system, climate control.
Safety Systems:
Seat belts, SRS airbags, child restraint system (ISOFIX/LATCH) installation and usage, ABS operation.
Bodywork:
Doors, hood, trunk, convertible top operation and care, exterior and interior part identification.
Basic Operation:
Starting and stopping the engine, gear selection, steering, braking.
Comfort Features:
Climate control (HVAC) operation, seat adjustments, audio system usage, convertible top operation.
Emergency Procedures:
Flat tire changing, jump starting, overheating, brake failure, collision procedures.
Maintenance Checks:
Checking engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid levels, tire pressure checks.
Fueling:
Fuel filler door operation, fuel type recommendations.
Depth:
Owner-level information focusing on safe operation, basic maintenance, and feature utilization. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or component-level repair instructions.
PDF Quality:
High-resolution scans or native digital PDF, ensuring legibility of text and diagrams.
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable, allowing users to quickly find specific topics within the PDF.
Printability:
Designed for clear printing, enabling users to create physical copies if desired.
Original Binding:
Typically a saddle-stitched or perfect-bound booklet.
Original Paper:
Durable, coated paper stock suitable for automotive environments.
Engine Type:
Naturally aspirated inline four-cylinder
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1839 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
83.0 mm x 85.0 mm
Valve Train:
DOHC, 16 valves (4 per cylinder)
Horsepower:
142 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque:
125 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type Recommendation:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane or higher (as per manual)
Type:
6-speed manual transmission
Type:
4-speed automatic transmission (less common in enthusiast market)
Clutch:
Hydraulic actuation, dry single plate
Final Drive Ratio:
4.10:1 (manual), 3.63:1 (automatic)
NHTSA Front Impact:
4/5 stars (driver), 4/5 stars (passenger) for 2003 model year.
IIHS Side Impact:
Acceptable (likely for models without optional side airbags)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) on all models.
Traction Control:
Not typically available on this generation Miata.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger SRS airbags.
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and behind-seat hoop structure.
Iso Fix Latch:
ISOFIX (LATCH) mounting points for child safety seats.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD player, often with 4-6 speakers. Higher trims may have premium audio options.
Display:
Basic digital clock and radio display. No integrated navigation or touchscreens.
Cruise Control:
Available on most models, controlled via steering column stalk.
Keyless Entry:
Optional on some trims.
Bluetooth:
Not available from the factory. Aftermarket integration is common.
Usb Aux:
Not available from the factory. Aftermarket adapters are available.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (typical recommendation).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles (consult manual for specific interval).
Spark Plugs:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type, platinum recommended).
Timing Belt:
Non-interference engine, but timing chain is used in this model, requiring no regular replacement unless symptomatic.
Engine Oil:
API SG, SH, or SJ grade SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for exact viscosity based on temperature).
Coolant:
Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent ethylene glycol based antifreeze, premixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mazda ATF-SP II M or equivalent.
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5 SAE 90 hypoid gear oil.
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear, rear main seal leaks, accessory belt noise, convertible top fabric degradation, radiator leaks.
Engine Minor Issues:
Oil consumption can increase with age and mileage. Crankshaft position sensor failure can cause starting issues.
Suspension Components:
Sway bar end links and bushings are common wear items leading to clunks.
Electrical Quirks:
Power window motors can be slow or fail. Interior light issues can occur.
Mazda Philosophy:
Zoom-Zoom driving dynamics, lightweight vehicles, rotary engines (though not in Miata).
Na Generation:
1989-1997, 1.6L and 1.8L engines.
Nb Generation:
1998-2005, 1.8L engine initially, upgraded to BP-Z3 (1.8L) in 2001 (NB2 refresh).
Nb2 Refresh 2001:
Updated styling (new headlights, bumper), more power (140hp to 142hp in US), revised suspension, optional LSD.
Nc Generation:
2005-2015, larger 2.0L and 2.5L engines.
Manufacturing Location:
Hofushima, Japan
Production Volume:
One of the best-selling two-seater sports cars globally, exceeding 1 million units.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Mazda Miata (all generations) has been a perennial recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best list.
Auto Express Best Convertible:
Frequently cited as a benchmark for affordable sports cars and convertibles.
Consumer Reports Reliability:
Generally rated as average to above average for reliability for its era, with common wear items being the primary maintenance concern.