Vehicle Segment:
Lightweight, two-seater, rear-wheel-drive sports car (roadster/convertible)
Key Competitors:
Lotus Elise, Porsche Boxster (though often priced higher), smaller roadsters from other brands
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its Jinba Ittai (horse and rider as one) driving feel, excellent chassis balance, and responsive steering.
Convertible:
Available in soft-top and power-retractable hardtop (PRHT) configurations.
Lightweight Construction:
Emphasizes minimalist design and lightweight materials for agile performance.
Powertrain:
Engine (operation, basic care), Fuel System, Lubrication, Cooling, Ignition, Emissions (brief overview)
Chassis:
Brakes, Steering, Suspension, Wheels and Tires
Electrical:
Instruments, Gauges, Warning Lights, Lighting System, Battery, Fuses, Entertainment System (basic operation)
Body And Interior:
Doors, Locks, Security, Seats, Restraints, Interior Trim, Comfort and Convenience Features, Climate Control
Basic Maintenance:
Fluid checks and refills (oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid), Tire pressure checks, Wiper blade replacement, Light bulb replacement, Battery maintenance
Operational:
Starting and driving, Parking, Using climate controls, Operating audio system, Using convertible top (if applicable), Locking/unlocking doors
Troubleshooting:
Interpreting warning lights, Basic troubleshooting for common issues (e.g., starting problems, battery issues)
Diagnostic Level:
Basic owner-level diagnostics and recommended actions. Does not cover in-depth repair procedures or advanced diagnostics.
Repair Scope:
Focuses on user-serviceable items and operational procedures, not mechanical repairs or component replacement.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-Cylinder
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1999 cc)
Horsepower:
167 hp @ 7,000 rpm
Torque:
140 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Recommended Fuel:
Unleaded gasoline, 87 octane minimum (premium recommended for optimal performance)
Engine Oil Type:
API SN or ILSAC GF-5 compliant synthetic oil
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.7 US quarts (4.4 liters) with filter change
Air Filter Part Number:
Mazda Genuine: B631-13-215 (example, verify for specific VIN)
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type:
6-Speed Automatic Transmission with Paddle Shifters (optional on some trims)
Manual Gear Ratios:
Refer to Manual for specific ratios. Typically close-ratio for sporty feel.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Mazda GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (example, verify for specific VIN)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda ATF-SH (example, verify for specific VIN)
Length:
Approx. 157.3 inches (4000 mm)
Width:
Approx. 67.7 inches (1720 mm)
Height:
Approx. 49.4 inches (1255 mm) (soft top)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 91.1 inches (2315 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2,480 - 2,600 lbs (1125 - 1180 kg) depending on configuration
Trunk Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 cubic feet (127 liters)
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Generally good for its era, specific ratings vary by year and test methodology. Expect 4 or 5 stars for frontal and side impacts.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System
Ebs:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS)
Esc:
Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
Airbags:
Front airbags, Side-impact airbags
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced windshield frame and pop-up rollover hoops behind the seats
Seating And Safety Restraints
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, auxiliary audio input. Optional Bose premium audio system available on higher trims.
Display:
Central infotainment display (size varies by trim level).
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free connectivity and audio streaming available on certain trims.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control.
Keyless Entry:
Available keyless entry and push-button start on certain trims.
Type:
Manual climate controls (AC and heater). Automatic climate control available on some higher trims.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, or as indicated by the Maintenance Minder system.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km)
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km)
Coolant Type:
Mazda Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC), blue color (e.g., FL22)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
Refer to Manual (often ATF DEXRON III or equivalent)
Common Wear Items:
Clutch wear (driving style dependent), Suspension bushings, Radiator/hoses (age-related), Convertible top mechanism (especially seals and motor if PRHT)
Oil Filter Part Number:
Mazda Genuine: B6Y1-14-302 (example, verify for specific VIN)
Service Information:
Covers basic checks, fluid top-offs, tire maintenance, and replacement of common wear items like filters and bulbs.
Brand Philosophy:
Mazda is known for its focus on driving pleasure and innovative engineering, often referred to as Zoom-Zoom.
Nc Generation Intro:
The NC generation debuted for the 2006 model year, evolving from the NB generation with a larger engine and improved chassis dynamics.
Manufacturing Location:
Hofu, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Miata has frequently been featured on Car and Driver's 10Best list in past generations, solidifying its reputation as a benchmark sports car.
World Car Of The Year:
The MX-5 Miata (across various generations) has won numerous international awards, including World Car of the Year and World Car Design of the Year.
Overall Reputation:
Consistently praised for its affordability, reliability, and pure driving engagement.
