Mazda · NA
Mazda MX-5 NA
The original MX-5 (Miata) single-handedly revived the affordable, lightweight British-style roadster formula that had all but died out by the late 1980s, proving that genuine driving joy comes from balance and simplicity rather than raw power.
Spec Sheet
- Generation / Chassis Code
- NA
- Years Produced
- 1989–1997
- Manufacturer
- Mazda
- Country
- Japan
- Body Style
- 2-door roadster convertible
- Engine
- 1.6L–1.8L inline-4 (B6ZE / BP-ZE)
- Horsepower
- 116–133 hp
- Torque
- 100–110 lb-ft
- Transmission
- 5-speed manual
- Drivetrain
- RWD
- Weight
- ~2,200 lbs
- 0–60 mph
- ~8.0 seconds
History
Mazda's engineers studied classic British roadsters like the Lotus Elan for inspiration, then re-engineered the formula with Japanese reliability, creating a car that became the best-selling two-seat sports car in history and effectively resurrected an entire market segment.
Why It Became Famous
It's celebrated worldwide as proof that a light, simple, well-balanced car can deliver more genuine driving joy than raw horsepower — a philosophy ('jinba ittai,' or 'horse and rider as one') that still defines every MX-5 generation since.
Strengths
- Exceptional lightweight balance makes even modest power feel genuinely engaging
- Simple, reliable mechanicals with an enormous, mature aftermarket
- Widely regarded as one of the most accessible and rewarding sports cars ever built
- Extremely affordable to buy and maintain relative to its driving reward
Weaknesses
- Modest power by modern standards without modification
- Very small size and minimal creature comforts
- Convertible top and rag-top mechanisms need periodic maintenance
- Clean, rust-free early examples are becoming harder to find
Common Problems
- Rust in rear frame rails and floor pans, especially on cars from salted-road climates
- Convertible top wear and water leaks on neglected examples
- Clutch and slave cylinder wear on high-mileage cars
- Timing belt service is important and interval-sensitive
Modification Potential
Enormous and famously beginner-friendly — turbo and supercharger kits, coilovers, and full engine swaps are all extremely well documented thanks to one of the largest aftermarket communities of any sports car.
Buying Guide
Rust is the single biggest concern — inspect frame rails and floor pans closely, check convertible top condition, and verify clutch and timing belt service history before buying.
Enthusiast Popularity Today
The best-selling two-seat convertible sports car in history and a beloved gateway car for enthusiasts worldwide, credited with saving the entire affordable roadster segment.
Fun Facts
- The MX-5 holds the Guinness World Record for the best-selling two-seat sports car of all time
- Mazda's design philosophy for the car, 'jinba ittai,' translates roughly to 'horse and rider as one'
- Early prototypes were tested against a Lotus Elan and other classic roadsters to calibrate the driving feel Mazda wanted
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