🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

MX-5

Model Variant:

Miata

Chassis Code:

NA

Generation:

First Generation (NA)

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Lightweight Sports Car / Roadster

Reputation:

Iconic, affordable, and driver-focused sports car that revived the roadster segment.

Key Competitors:

Lotus Elan (M100), Alfa Romeo Spider, Fiat Spider, Triumph Spitfire (older models).

Driving Dynamics:

Renowned for its superb handling, balanced chassis, and direct steering feel.

Design Philosophy:

Simplicity, lightweight construction, rear-wheel drive, and a focus on the pure driving experience.

Convertible Top:

Manual soft-top convertible roof, praised for its ease of operation.

📋 Manual Details

Market Coverage:

Global (primarily North America and Europe for this era)

Trim Levels Covered:

All available trim levels for the 1991 model year

Estimated Page Count:

Over 1000 pages (typical for a comprehensive factory service manual)

Manual Type:

Full Service & Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete engine disassembly, assembly, rebuilding, and tuning for the 1.6L DOHC engine.

Engine Management:

Detailed diagnostics and repair procedures for the fuel injection system (EFI), ignition system, ECU (Engine Control Unit), and emissions control.

Transmission Manual:

Service and repair of the 5-speed manual transmission, including clutch system and driveshaft.

Transmission Automatic:

Service and repair of the optional 4-speed automatic transmission.

Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems (double wishbone), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, and alignment procedures.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes, brake hydraulics, ABS (if equipped on specific early models), parking brake system, and bleeding procedures.

Steering:

Rack and pinion steering system, power steering system (if equipped), steering column, and tie rods.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, fuses, relays, and accessory circuits.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, convertible top mechanism and seals, chassis components, and rust prevention.

HVAC:

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair.

Diagnostic Trouble Codes:

OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics) codes, diagnostic procedures, and troubleshooting flowcharts.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, and spark plug replacement.

Component Overhaul:

Detailed steps for rebuilding the engine, transmission, differential, and brake calipers.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon faults.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive and clear wiring diagrams for all electrical circuits.

Torque Specifications:

Exact torque values for all fasteners and critical components.

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific procedures.

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine and drivetrain overhauls. Includes diagnostic strategies and repair techniques.

Diagnostic Capability:

Detailed diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, and component testing procedures.

Repair Level:

Suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts looking to perform all levels of repair and restoration.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable, allowing for quick navigation to specific topics.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution scans ensuring clarity of diagrams, illustrations, and text.

Scalability:

Pages are likely formatted for standard printing (e.g., A4 or Letter size) and can be zoomed for detail.

Binding Type:

Not applicable (Digital PDF Download)

Paper Type:

Not applicable (Digital PDF Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

B6

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-cylinder

Displacement:

1.6 Liters (1597 cc)

Valvetrain:

DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 16 Valves

Horsepower:

115 hp @ 6500 rpm (approx.)

Torque:

100 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (approx.)

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating may vary by market; typically 91 AKI recommended)

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 6.0 Quarts (5.7 Liters)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Optional Transmission:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Differential:

Open differential (Limited Slip Differential - LSD - was a common option or upgrade)

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (Specific Mazda specification should be confirmed in manual)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III / Mercon ATF (Specific Mazda specification should be confirmed in manual)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

155.7 inches (3955 mm)

Width:

66.1 inches (1680 mm)

Height:

48.2 inches (1225 mm)

Wheelbase:

89.2 inches (2265 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 2100 - 2200 lbs (950 - 1000 kg), depending on options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Typically around 3000 lbs (1360 kg)

Seating Capacity:

2

Trunk Volume:

Small, designed for weekend trips; specific volume not prominently advertised, but limited.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Not directly comparable to modern standards. Early models lacked advanced safety features.

ABS:

Optional on some models, standard on later NA revisions.

Traction Control:

Not typically available on 1991 models.

Airbags:

Driver's side airbag became standard in later NA years, likely optional or absent on early 1991 models.

Roll Over Protection:

Reinforced windshield frame and optional pop-up roll bars behind the seats.

Seatbelts:

Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Speakers typically located in doors and dashboard.

Navigation:

Not available.

Cruise Control:

Available on most models.

Bluetooth:

Not available.

Usb:

Not available.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for exact recommendation.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 is commonly recommended. Refer to manual for specific viscosity and certification.

Oil Filter Part Number:

Mazda OEM: B6Y1-14-302 (or equivalent like Fram PH3512, Wix 51348)

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as per manual recommendations.

Timing Belt Replacement:

The B6 engine uses a timing belt. Replacement interval is typically around 60,000-70,000 miles (96,000-112,000 km). CRITICAL to check and replace if history is unknown.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mazda FL22 or equivalent is recommended for later models, but for 1991, standard green coolant should suffice if changed regularly.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for exact specification; DOT 4 is generally preferred for higher boiling point).

Rust:

Prone to rust in common areas such as rocker panels, rear quarter panels, and subframes. Thorough inspection is crucial.

Oil Leaks:

Valve cover gasket, rear main seal, and oil pan gasket can develop leaks with age.

Cooling System:

Radiator and hoses can degrade; water pump may leak. Overheating can cause significant engine damage.

Clutch Wear:

Clutch components (disc, pressure plate, release bearing) are wear items and will require replacement based on driving style and mileage.

Window Regulators:

Can become stiff or break, especially on older models.

Convertible Top Seals:

Weather seals can degrade, leading to water leaks into the cabin. Replacement is often necessary.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Sports Car Legacy:

Built on Mazda's heritage of building reliable and engaging driver's cars, with a nod to classic British roadsters.

Na Generation Start:

Introduced in 1989 for the 1990 model year, the NA MX-5 revolutionized the modern sports car market.

1991 Updates:

Minor updates may have occurred, but largely carried over the initial successful formula. ABS became available. Minor interior/exterior trim changes are common year-to-year.

Production Years Na:

1989-1997

Manufacturing Location:

Hiroshima, Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

Consistently named to Car and Driver's 10Best list for multiple years throughout its production run, including the early NA models.

Automotive Journalism Praise:

Widely acclaimed by automotive journalists globally for its accessible performance, affordability, and pure driving pleasure.