Market Position:
The Mazda MX-5 Miata (NA generation) is a highly regarded lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car celebrated for its pure driving experience. It carved out a significant niche in the affordable sports car market, appealing to enthusiasts who prioritize handling and open-top motoring.
Competitors:
Competitors during its production run included cars like the Toyota MR2, Fiat Spider, and MGB (though the MGB was largely out of production by the time the Miata arrived), as well as more potent but less pure sports cars like the Porsche Boxster (later in its lifecycle).
Key Features:
Lightweight construction, rear-wheel drive, excellent handling dynamics, convertible soft-top, simple and reliable mechanics, affordability, driver-focused cockpit.
Applicable Years:
1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999
Page Count:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Workshop Manual
Systems:
General Information, Engine Mechanical, Engine Electrical, Emission Control, Fuel System, Clutch System, Manual Transaxle, Automatic Transaxle, Driveshaft and Axle, Suspension System, Steering System, Restraint System, Brake System, Body (Interior and Exterior), Body Electrical System, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC)
Procedures:
Step-by-step repair instructions, troubleshooting, diagnostics, maintenance, adjustments, component replacement, system overviews, wiring schematics, diagrams, illustrations
Depth:
Comprehensive, dealer-level technical specifications and repair procedures
Engine Type:
Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement 1989 1993:
1.6 Liter (1598 cc)
Horsepower 1989 1993:
118 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque 1989 1993:
100 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm
Displacement 1994 1999:
1.8 Liter (1839 cc)
Horsepower 1994 1999:
125 hp @ 6500 rpm (1994-1995), 133 hp @ 6500 rpm (1996-1999)
Torque 1994 1999:
109 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (1994-1995), 114 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm (1996-1999)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Engine Codes:
1.6L: B6, 1.8L: BP-ZE
Length:
Approx. 157.3 inches (3995 mm)
Width:
Approx. 66.1 inches (1680 mm)
Height:
Approx. 48.6 inches (1235 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 89.2 inches (2265 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2150-2300 lbs (975-1043 kg)
Safety Ratings General:
Early models had basic safety features. Later models saw improvements. Specific NHTSA/IIHS ratings for this era are less comprehensive than modern standards.
Active Features:
Four-wheel disc brakes (standard on most models), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often optional or standard on higher trims/later years.
Passive Features:
Three-point seat belts, reinforced A-pillars, driver's side airbag (became standard later in the generation).
Infotainment Features:
Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional CD player in later years. Simple analog gauges.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited to optional ABS. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) were available.
Connectivity Features:
No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first
Engine Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles depending on plug type (refer to manual for specifics)
Timing Belt Replacement Interval:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (CRITICAL for engine longevity)
Engine Oil Type Recommendation:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for temperature-specific recommendations)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (e.g., Mazda Super Long Life Coolant or equivalent)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III (or equivalent)
Common Issues:
Crankshaft seal oil leaks, differential leaks, rust (especially around wheel arches and sills), cam angle sensor failure, radiator leaks, worn clutch components, window regulator issues, power steering pump failure (on equipped models).
Brand Heritage:
Mazda, a Japanese automaker, has a long history of producing reliable vehicles. The MX-5 Miata was conceived to recapture the spirit of classic British roadsters like the Lotus Elan.
Model Evolution:
The first generation (NA) debuted in 1989. Key updates included the introduction of the 1.8L engine in 1994, along with minor styling tweaks and interior refinements. Special editions and performance variants like the 'R-package' and 'M-edition' were also released.
Production Location:
Hiroshima, Japan
Production Years:
1989-1997 (NA Generation)
Automotive Journalism Awards:
Car and Driver's 10Best list for multiple years during its production run.
Driving Dynamics Reputation:
Universally praised for its exceptional handling, steering feel, and balanced chassis.
Certification Manual Type:
Official Mazda Service and Repair Manual
