Vehicle Type:
Lightweight, two-seater, rear-wheel-drive convertible sports car.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, owners, and independent repair shops focused on maintaining and restoring the first-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata (NA).
Competitors:
Lotus Elan, Triumph Spitfire, MG Midget (historical context), later models like Porsche Boxster, BMW Z3.
Vehicle Philosophy:
Jinba-Ittai ('horse and rider as one') driving philosophy, emphasizing driver connection and feedback.
Manual Value Proposition:
Essential resource for sourcing correct OEM replacement parts, crucial for maintaining the originality and proper functioning of a classic sports car. Essential for DIY repairs and parts identification.
Sections Included:
Engine, Fuel System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Transmission, Driveshaft, Differential, Axles, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes, Wheels & Tires, Body & Chassis, Electrical System, Convertible Top System, HVAC System, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Special Tools, Torque Specifications, Part Numbers.
Estimated Pages:
300-400 (estimated for a comprehensive parts catalog)
Type:
OEM Replacement Parts Manual / Parts Catalog
Engine And Ancillaries:
Engine block, cylinder head, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt, valves, valve train, intake manifold, exhaust manifold, fuel injection system, throttle body, fuel pump, fuel injectors, cooling system (radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses), lubrication system (oil pump, oil filter housing, oil pan), ignition system (coils, spark plugs), emission control systems, starter motor, alternator.
Drivetrain:
Clutch assembly, flywheel, transmission (gearbox internal components, shifter linkage), driveshaft, universal joints, differential, rear axle shafts, wheel bearings.
Suspension Steering Brakes:
Front suspension (control arms, ball joints, bushings, springs, shock absorbers), rear suspension (multi-link components, bushings, springs, shock absorbers), steering rack and pinion, steering column, power steering pump (if applicable), brake calipers, brake rotors, brake pads, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake system, wheel hubs, wheel studs, lug nuts.
Body Chassis Electrical:
Chassis frame components, body panels (fenders, hood, doors, trunk lid), bumpers, headlights, taillights, interior trim panels, seats, convertible top mechanism, soft top fabric, electrical wiring harnesses, fuses, relays, switches, battery, lighting components, instrumentation, wiper system, audio system components.
Parts Identification And Ordering:
Detailed exploded views for accurate part identification, complete OE part numbers for ordering, cross-referencing of related components.
Disassembly Assembly Guidance:
Illustrative diagrams facilitate the disassembly and reassembly of various vehicle systems for repair and replacement of components.
Depth:
Comprehensive parts catalog detailing every serviceable component with its corresponding OEM part number. Focuses on part identification and sourcing rather than step-by-step repair instructions, but essential for accurate part replacement.
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
Displacement:
1597 cc (1.6 Liters)
Horsepower Us Spec:
115 hp @ 6500 rpm (early models), 105 hp @ 6500 rpm (later US models due to emissions control)
Torque Us Spec:
100 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (early models), 95 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (later US models)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Type Optional:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Manual Gear Ratios Typical:
1st: 3.308, 2nd: 1.947, 3rd: 1.310, 4th: 1.000, 5th: 0.815 (subject to variation)
Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (check manual for exact specification)
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
4/5 stars (estimated for 1990s era small cars, specific data may vary)
IIHS Crash Test Data:
N/A (IIHS not established in its current form for this era).
ABS:
Optional on some models, standard on later variants.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard from 1990.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts.
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and an optional factory or aftermarket roll bar. The manual would cover parts for these systems.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 - 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (check manual for specific recommendation).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles or 5 years (critical maintenance item).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 - 60,000 miles (depending on plug type).
Engine Oil Type:
API SG/SH or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for seasonal and specific viscosity recommendations).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mazda's Super Long Life Coolant (SLLC) or equivalent. (Consult manual for exact specification).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation).
Common Problems:
Timing belt failure (if not replaced on schedule), oil seal leaks (crankshaft, camshaft), radiator leaks, alternator failure, clutch wear, differential whine, window regulator issues, convertible top wear and tear, ECU failures.
Manual Utility For Issues:
This parts manual is indispensable for sourcing exact replacement parts for any of these common issues, ensuring correct fitment and quality.
Mazda Legacy:
Mazda's history of producing reliable and enjoyable vehicles, building on the success of models like the RX-7. The MX-5 was a deliberate revival of the classic British roadster spirit.
Na Generation Timeline:
1989-1997. The 1990 model is the first year of production for the iconic NA chassis.
Key Updates Na:
Engine power adjustments for emissions, suspension tuning, introduction of optional ABS, interior refinements, and cosmetic updates throughout the NA generation.
Manufacturing Location:
Hiroshima, Japan
Sales Impact:
The MX-5 Miata (NA) became the best-selling two-seater sports car in history, rejuvenating the segment.
