🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

Miata

Model Short:

MX-5 Miata

Model Generation Name:

NA

Model Generation Designation:

First Generation

Chassis Code:

NA

Vin Prefix Usdm:

JM1NA

👋 Introduction

Market Positioning:

The Mazda Miata (MX-5) revolutionized the affordable sports car market, offering pure driving enjoyment and lightweight handling. It catered to enthusiasts seeking a back-to-basics, fun-to-drive convertible.

Competitors Era:

Competed against cars like the Toyota MR2, Nissan 240SX (S13), and later models like the Alfa Romeo Spider and Porsche 944 (though at a higher price point).

Key Features Vehicle:

Lightweight construction, rear-wheel drive, balanced chassis, pop-up headlights, iconic styling, open-top motoring.

Manual Value:

This PDF service manual is an indispensable resource for owners and technicians looking to maintain, diagnose, and repair their 1991-1993 Mazda Miata. It provides the same in-depth technical information used by factory-trained technicians.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Years:

1991, 1992, 1993

Estimated Page Count:

1500+

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Engine mechanical (1.6L DOHC, B6), fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, exhaust

Transmission Drivetrain:

Manual transmission (5-speed), clutch, driveshaft, differential, axle shafts

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension (double wishbone), steering system, power steering (if equipped)

Brakes:

Front disc, rear disc brakes, ABS (if equipped), parking brake, brake system hydraulics

Electrical Electronics:

Wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, lighting, accessories, ECU, sensors

Body Chassis:

Body construction, doors, hood, trunk, convertible top, interior trim, chassis components

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement

Repair Procedures:

Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, clutch replacement, brake caliper and rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnostics and repair

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts, common symptoms, causes, and corrective actions for various systems

Diagnostics:

OBD-I diagnostic codes (where applicable), sensor testing, electrical system testing

Specifications Data:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic values, component tolerances

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive; covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical system diagnostics and body repairs.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format Details:

Searchable PDF, allowing easy navigation and keyword searching. Printable pages.

Print Quality Description:

High-resolution scans of original factory service manuals, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

B6

Engine Type:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC

Displacement:

1.6 Liters (1597 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

78.0 mm x 83.6 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.4:1

Horsepower Hp:

118 hp @ 6500 rpm (early models), 123 hp @ 6500 rpm (later models)

Torque Lb-Ft:

100 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (early models), 103 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (later models)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (SMPI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane (minimum)

Ignition Type:

Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) for later models, Distributor system for earlier models. Electronic ignition timing control.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

5-speed manual transmission

Optional Transmission:

4-speed automatic transmission (less common)

Clutch Type:

Hydraulically operated dry single-plate clutch

Final Drive Ratio:

4.30:1 (Manual), 3.62:1 (Automatic - typically)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

155.7 inches (3955 mm)

Width:

66.1 inches (1680 mm)

Height:

48.2 inches (1225 mm)

Wheelbase:

89.2 inches (2265 mm)

Front Track:

57.3 inches (1455 mm)

Rear Track:

57.5 inches (1460 mm)

Ground Clearance:

5.5 inches (140 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2150-2350 lbs (975-1065 kg), depending on trim and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Not typically published for this segment, but within design parameters.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Crash Rating:

Not consistently rated by NHTSA in the same manner as modern vehicles. Design focused on occupant protection within the era's standards.

Anti Lock Brakes:

Optional on some models, particularly later NA generation.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag standard from 1990 (USDM).

Rollover Protection:

Reinforced windshield frame with integrated roll bar.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player available on some models. Manual covers removal and replacement of audio components.

ABS Availability:

Optional ABS system, details on its operation, diagnostics, and maintenance are included.

Connectivity Features:

No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB. Focus is on essential vehicle operation.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,750 miles (6,000 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).

Coolant Flush:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.

Timing Belt Replacement:

Due to the B6 engine's interference design, timing belt replacement is critical. Recommended interval is 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 4 years. The manual will detail the procedure and related components (tensioner, water pump).

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for specific temperature recommendations).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 3.5 US quarts (3.3 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 (or DOT 4 if specified for ABS models).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 gear oil.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II (or equivalent).

Differential Fluid:

API GL-5, SAE 80W-90 hypoid gear oil.

Common Issues Engine:

Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, rear main seal), coolant leaks (hose failures, radiator), occasional idle control valve issues.

Common Issues Chassis:

Subframe rust (especially rear), differential mount wear, cam lock rust.

Common Issues Electrical:

Window motor failure, power antenna issues, headlight pop-up mechanism faults, gauge cluster problems.

Common Issues Convertible Top:

Wear and tear on the fabric, seal degradation, frame mechanism issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage Context:

Mazda has a history of producing lightweight, driver-focused vehicles, notably the rotary-powered RX series. The Miata was a deliberate return to simple, accessible sports car principles.

Na Generation Start End:

1989-1997

Key Changes 1991-1993:

Minor revisions to power output, ECU tuning, and potentially interior materials and minor styling tweaks between these early years. ABS became available on some models.

Production Location:

Hofu, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

Car and Driver recognized the Miata as one of its 10Best cars multiple times throughout its production run, including during this early NA generation, highlighting its exceptional value and driving dynamics.

Driving Dynamics Reputation:

Universally praised for its superb handling, precise steering, and driver engagement, setting a benchmark for sports cars.