🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

MX-5

Nickname:

Miata

Year:

2008

Body Style:

Roadster

Trim Level:

Power Retractable HardTOP (PRHT)

Generation Code:

NC

Generation Years:

2006-2015

Chassis Code:

NC1

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (NC generation) continued Mazda's legacy of producing affordable, lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports cars focused on driver engagement and pure driving pleasure.

Competitors:

Primary competitors included the Nissan 350Z, Porsche Boxster (though at a higher price point), and to some extent, the Audi TT and BMW Z4.

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for its balanced chassis, precise steering, and rear-wheel-drive layout, offering exceptional handling and feedback.

Convertible Options:

Offered with both a traditional soft top and the featured Power Retractable Hardtop (PRHT), providing coupe-like security and insulation when closed.

Engine Layout:

Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration.

📋 Manual Details

General Coverage:

Comprehensive owner's information for the 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata PRHT model.

Specific Sections:

Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories.

Estimated Page Count:

Likely 300-400 pages (typical for owner's manuals of this era).

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine operation, fluid requirements, basic maintenance, fuel system overview, battery maintenance, air filter replacement.

Chassis:

Brake system overview, steering, suspension (basic information).

Electrical:

Instrument cluster functions, lighting system operation, power locks, security system basics, entertainment system overview.

Body And Interior:

Seating and safety restraints, driver controls, climate controls, power retractable hardtop operation.

Basic Maintenance:

Checking and topping up fluids (engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), checking tire pressure, replacing wiper blades, replacing air filter.

Operational Procedures:

Starting and stopping the engine, shifting gears, operating the power retractable hardtop, using the climate control system, adjusting seats and mirrors.

Safety Procedures:

Proper use of seat belts, child restraint system installation guidelines, understanding dashboard warning lights.

Troubleshooting Basic:

Guidance on understanding warning lights and indicators, basic driver assistance tips.

Depth:

Owner-level information focusing on operation, care, and basic maintenance. Does not cover in-depth diagnostics or repair procedures typically found in a service manual.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable due to being a digital compilation.

Quality:

Digital, therefore quality is dependent on the PDF reader's rendering and user's printer, but based on original factory manual standards.

Type:

N/A (Digital format)

Type:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

LF-VE

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-Cylinder

Displacement:

2.0 Liters (1999 cc)

Bore X Stroke:

87.5 mm x 83.5 mm

Compression Ratio:

10.8:1

Valvetrain:

DOHC, 16 Valves, Variable Valve Timing (VVT-i equivalent - S-VT)

Horsepower:

167 hp @ 7000 rpm (U.S. Spec)

Torque:

140 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (U.S. Spec)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline, 87 Octane Minimum (Premium Recommended for optimal performance)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-Speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

6-Speed Sport Automatic Transmission with Paddle Shifters

Manual Transmission:

Known for its short throws and precise engagement, contributing to the car's sporty feel.

Automatic Transmission:

Offered paddle shifters for manual control of gear selection.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

167.9 inches (4265 mm)

Width:

67.7 inches (1720 mm)

Height:

49.4 inches (1255 mm) (PRHT down)

Wheelbase:

90.9 inches (2310 mm)

Curb Weight Manual:

Approximately 2500 - 2550 lbs (1134 - 1157 kg), depending on trim and options.

Curb Weight Automatic:

Approximately 2550 - 2600 lbs (1157 - 1180 kg), depending on trim and options.

Trunk Volume:

4.4 cubic feet (124 liters) with PRHT up; significantly less when PRHT is down and stored.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Front Impact:

5-Star Driver, 4-Star Passenger (for 2008 model year, general MX-5 ratings).

IIHS Side Impact:

Good (for 2008 model year, general MX-5 ratings).

IIHS Rear Impact:

Acceptable (for 2008 model year, general MX-5 ratings).

Traction Control:

Standard on most trims.

Electronic Stability Control:

Standard on most trims.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (Standard)

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags, side-impact airbags.

Rollover Protection:

Pop-up rollover hoops behind the headrests.

Seatbelts:

Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Typically offered with a 6-speaker premium Bose® audio system on higher trims, with AM/FM/CD/MP3 playback. Auxiliary input often standard.

Navigation:

Optional DVD-based or hard-drive-based navigation system available on certain trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard.

Keyless Entry Start:

Available on higher trims (Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry & Start System).

Bluetooth:

Bluetooth® hands-free phone capability became more common in later NC models and may be present as an option or dealer-installed accessory for 2008.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (under normal driving conditions).

Tire Rotation:

Every 5,000 miles or with every oil change.

Air Filter Replacement:

Approximately every 15,000 - 30,000 miles, or as needed based on driving conditions (refer to manual).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Approximately 100,000 miles (Iridium type).

Coolant Replacement:

Initial replacement at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter.

Engine Oil:

SAE 5W-20, API SM or ILSAC GF-4 certified (refer to manual for exact specification).

Coolant:

Mazda Genuine Super Long Life Coolant (Green) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for specific recommendation).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

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

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Mazda ATF-FZ or equivalent ATF (refer to manual).

Prht Mechanism:

Potential issues with the power retractable hardtop mechanism, including motors, sensors, and hydraulic lines, can arise with age and mileage. Regular lubrication and proper operation are key.

Clutch Wear:

As with any sports car, clutch wear is dependent on driving style. Early NC models sometimes had clutch chatter issues that could be addressed through specific service bulletins.

Oil Consumption:

Some owners report higher than expected oil consumption, especially during spirited driving. Regular monitoring of the oil level is recommended.

Interior Rattles:

Lightweight construction can sometimes lead to minor interior rattles or squeaks over time, particularly with the PRHT system.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Mazda has a long history of producing lightweight, agile sports cars, most notably the original Mazda RX-7 and the iconic MX-5 Miata.

Nc Generation Introduction:

The NC generation debuted for the 2006 model year, representing a significant redesign from the previous NB generation, with a larger chassis and more modern styling.

Prht Introduction:

The Power Retractable Hardtop (PRHT) was introduced as an option for the NC generation, offering a more refined convertible experience.

Manufacturing Location:

Hiroshima, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

The Mazda MX-5 Miata has a storied history of appearing on Car and Driver's 10Best list, including the NC generation. This highlights its enduring appeal and exceptional driving dynamics.