Segment:
Lightweight two-seater convertible sports car
Competitors:
Honda S2000, Porsche Boxster, BMW Z3, Alfa Romeo Spider
Driving Experience:
Renowned for its 'Jinba Ittai' (horse and rider as one) driving philosophy, responsive handling, and driver engagement.
Design:
Iconic 'NA' generation styling, compact footprint, classic roadster proportions.
Powertrain:
Engine, transmission, clutch, drivetrain, exhaust system.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering, brakes (front and rear disc, ABS), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Engine control module (ECM), body control module (BCM), lighting, ignition, starting, charging, instrumentation, audio system, power accessories, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Body:
Exterior body panels, interior trim, doors, windows, convertible top mechanism, HVAC system, safety restraint system (SRS), seats, locks.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake, power steering, transmission, differential), filter replacements, lubrication, inspections.
Repair:
Engine component repair (e.g., cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft), transmission overhaul, brake caliper/rotor replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and replacement, body panel repair.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, wiring diagrams, diagnostic trouble code (DTC) interpretation and resolution, sensor testing.
Disassembly/Assembly:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal and installation with torque specifications and special tool requirements.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to in-depth diagnostics and repair, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.
Engine Code:
B6ZE (or BP-ZE for some export markets)
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1.8 Liters (1839 cc)
Horsepower:
140 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
115 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane or higher
NHTSA Front Impact:
Not explicitly rated, but generally considered safe for its class and era.
Brakes:
Front ventilated discs, rear solid discs (ABS optional on some trims/markets).
Steering:
Power-assisted rack and pinion.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and front windshield frame.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/CD player with standard 4 or optional 6-speaker system. Some models may have cassette tape player.
User Interface:
Basic dashboard layout with analog gauges and physical controls.
Stability Control:
Not typically available on the 1999 model year.
Auxiliary Input:
Not standard; aftermarket solutions may exist.
Engine Oil Change:
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) (copper core plugs).
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30, API SG or higher (e.g., Mobil 1 5W-30 Synthetic)
Coolant:
Mazda Long Life Antifreeze/Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors), 50/50 mixture with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-5 75W-90 gear oil (e.g., Castrol SYNTRANS 75W-90).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Mazda ATF JWS 3317 or equivalent (e.g., Dexron III/Mercon).
Oil Consumption:
Some early NB models can experience oil consumption issues due to piston ring wear. Regular checks are recommended.
Rear Main Seal Leak:
Can develop rear main seal leaks over time, often requiring transmission removal for repair.
Radiator Failure:
Original plastic-tank radiators can be prone to cracking and leaks.
Soft Top Wear:
The fabric soft top and its seals can degrade over time, leading to leaks.
Philosophy:
Mazda's long history of producing driver-focused, engaging vehicles dating back to early sports cars.
Generation Code:
NB (Second Generation)
Introduction Year:
1999 (for the 1999 model year, replacing the NA generation).
Key Changes From Previous Gen:
More aerodynamic styling, improved chassis rigidity, updated interior, slightly larger engine option in later NB models (not the 1999).
Manufacturing Location:
Hofugai, Hiroshima, Japan
