🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

MX-5 Miata

Model Code:

NA (First Generation)

Year:

1990

Market:

USA

Chassis Code:

NA

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Mazda MX-5 Miata (NA) revolutionized the affordable sports car market with its lightweight, rear-wheel-drive, and pure driving experience. This parts catalog is essential for owners and enthusiasts looking to maintain or restore this iconic vehicle.

Competitive Analysis:

Competed against sports cars like the Toyota MR2, Nissan 300ZX, and Porsche 944, but carved out its own niche with unparalleled driver engagement and reliability for its class.

Key Features:

Pop-up headlights, perfect 50/50 weight distribution, naturally aspirated inline-4 engine, close-ratio manual transmission, and a driver-focused cockpit.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

Body Index / Parts Catalog

Page Count:

Varies (estimated 100-200 pages for a typical parts catalog)

Manual Type:

Parts Catalog

Language:

English

Format:

Printed (assumed, based on 'Parts Catalogue Body Index')

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Exterior Body Panels, Chassis Components, Interior Trim, Convertible Top Assembly, Lighting, Glass, Bumpers, Doors, Hood, Trunk Lid, Frame Components

Procedures Included:

Part Identification, Exploded Views, Part Number Cross-Referencing, Body Assembly Breakdown

Technical Depth:

Detailed breakdown of all physical body and chassis parts, facilitating accurate part ordering and understanding of assembly.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

N/A (assuming print)

Print Quality:

High-quality printing with clear diagrams and part numbers

Binding Type:

Spiral-bound or perfect-bound (typical for catalogs)

Paper Type:

Durable, glossy paper suitable for frequent reference

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

1.6L DOHC Inline-4 (B6-ZE)

Horsepower:

114 hp @ 6500 rpm

Torque:

100 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm

Fuel System:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Engine Codes:

B61P (USDM)

Bore X Stroke:

78.0 mm x 83.6 mm

Compression Ratio:

9.4:1

Valvetrain:

DOHC, 16 valves

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Standard:

5-Speed Manual

Transmission Optional:

4-Speed Automatic

Gear Ratios Manual:

Approx. 3.133 (1st), 1.839 (2nd), 1.330 (3rd), 1.000 (4th), 0.815 (5th), 3.308 (Reverse) - Ratios varied slightly by year/spec

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., Castrol Syntrax Universal GL-4 75W-90)

Transmission Fluid Capacity Manual:

Approx. 1.9 liters (2.0 US quarts)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

89.2 inches (2266 mm)

Length:

155.4 inches (3947 mm)

Width:

65.9 inches (1674 mm)

Height:

49.1 inches (1247 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2160-2250 lbs (980-1020 kg) depending on options

Wheel Size:

14x5.5 inches (standard on base models)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4x100 mm

Offset:

ET45

Tire Size:

185/60R14 (standard)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Driver Side Impact Rating:

Not available for this era

IIHS Side Impact Rating:

Not available for this era

Active Safety Features:

Standard Disc Brakes (Front), Drum Brakes (Rear), Optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) on select models/years

Passive Safety Features:

Reinforced A-pillars, Seat belts, Driver's side airbag (introduced later in the NA generation)

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM/Cassette stereo system (typically 2 or 4 speaker setup)

Driver Assistance Features:

Minimal; focus is on driver feedback and engagement. ABS was optional.

Connectivity:

None (pre-internet era).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, whichever comes first

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or as needed

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km)

Timing Belt Replacement:

Every 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years (critical due to interference engine design)

Engine Oil Type:

API SG, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (refer to owner's manual for specific viscosity based on climate)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron II or equivalent (if equipped with power steering)

Known Issues:

Oil leaks (valve cover gasket, front main seal), coolant leaks (hose failures), timing belt failure (due to lack of replacement), rust (especially on sills, wheel arches, and frame rails), pop-up headlight motor issues, radiator fan motor failure.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mazda has a long history of producing reliable and driver-focused vehicles. The MX-5 Miata was conceived to recapture the spirit of classic British roadsters like the Lotus Elan.

Model Evolution:

The NA generation (1989-1997) was the first iteration of the MX-5 Miata, setting the benchmark for the modern affordable sports car. The 1990 model year represents the initial launch of this highly influential vehicle.

Production Years:

1989-1997 (NA Generation)

Manufacturing Location:

Hiroshima, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

Named to Car and Driver's 10Best list for multiple years.

Road And Track:

Highly praised by automotive publications like Road & Track for its handling and driving dynamics.