Mazda MX-5 Miata – The Icon of Roadsters
What is this article about?
I wanted the following post to be a hybrid of a light description of all the generations of the Miata and also a data-packed guide that will help a potential buyer realize which version they actually need!
A Brief History of the MX-5 Model
The Mazda MX-5 Miata, also known simply as “Miata”, in Japan as Eunos Roadster debuted in 1989 and quickly earned the title of one of the best roadsters in the world. Mazda engineers were inspired by classic European roadsters, such as the Lotus Elan. The ideal roadster, which provided the minimum essentials to qualify as such, over time offered more than the standard.
Over more than three decades, four generations of the MX-5 have been produced:
- NA – the first generation with the characteristic pop-up headlights.
- NB – the second generation, very similar to the NA but with “normal” headlights and better mechanical aspects.
- NC – the third generation, the largest and heaviest, statistically the least appreciated, although in my opinion, the facelifted version is the most beautiful of all. The first with a hardtop.
- ND – the fourth, the newest, and the fastest of all Miatas. Available in both convertible and targa versions (named RF).
Each of these generations has maintained the original principles of the model – low weight, excellent driving dynamics, and immense driving pleasure. Though all these parameters are not always identical between generations, more on that later.
Each version is manufactured in Mazda’s factory in Hiroshima (Fiat 124 Spider is also made there!).
Mazda MX-5 Miata NA (1989-1998)
The first generation, NA, debuted in 1989 (wow!) with characteristic retractable headlights and simple but effective suspension. Initially, it was only available with a 1.6L (115 hp) engine until 1994. Later, a 1.8L (130 hp) engine was added, and the 1.6L was detuned to 90 hp. The car’s weight didn’t exceed one ton, ensuring excellent driving experiences, even with the weakest engine.
Mazda MX-5 Miata NB (1998-2005)
The second generation lost the retractable headlights but gained a more modern look (inspired by the larger sister model, the RX-7) and a stiffer construction, which was actually noticeable. Engines offered included 1.6L (110 hp) and 1.8L (140-146 hp). In 2001, a facelift was introduced, which not only affected styling but also had a positive impact on mechanical aspects. The Mazdaspeed version with a 1.8 Turbo (180 hp) was a rare find.
Mazda MX-5 Miata NC (2005-2015)
The third generation featured two body styles: a classic convertible with a soft top and a coupé-cabrio with a hardtop. It’s worth mentioning that both versions, with the roof folded, look distinctly different. The Japanese designers cleverly preserved the entire hardtop mechanism (kudos!). In 2006, the car received what I consider to be a fantastic facelift, which made the Miata take on a more aggressive character. I know I’m in the minority, but I think the facelifted NC is the most beautiful Miata to date. The “default” engine in the NC was a 2.0L 160 hp, available in all markets where Mazda sold the Miata. In Europe, there was also a budget 1.8L 126 hp, which, however, left a lot to be desired.
Mazda MX-5 Miata ND (including RF)
The fourth generation, like the NC, came in two body styles, though in a slightly different configuration. The classic soft-top roof was available, as it had been from the start, but instead of a fully retractable roof like in the third generation, a targa version (RF = Retractable Fastback) with a retractable panel above the head was introduced. Unfortunately, when driving with the RF roof open, air turbulence is noticeable, which doesn’t occur with the classic convertible version. The ND became lighter than its predecessor and also (potentially) more powerful, which made it the fastest and overall best-driving Miata. Even with the 1.5L engine producing 131 hp, it could reach 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.3 seconds. The most powerful version, the 2.0L with the fantastic Skyactiv-G engine delivering 184 hp, could easily accelerate to over 100 km/h (62 mph) in less than seven seconds.
Buying – What to Watch Out For?
Mazda MX-5 NA (1989-1997) – Problems
- Rust – The biggest issue with the first generation. Affects:
- Sills and wheel arches
- Floor and suspension mounts
- Bottom of the doors
- Roof seals – Over time, they may leak, causing moisture inside the cabin.
- Suspension – Rubber components (e.g., bushings) wear over time, which affects handling.
- Steering rack – Play may develop, especially in high-mileage cars.
Mazda MX-5 NB (1998-2005) – Problems
- Rust – Still a significant issue, mainly in the sills and rear wheel arches.
- Suspension and chassis mounts
- 1.8L Engines (NBFL) – In some examples, excessive oil consumption occurs.
- Oil leaks – The valve cover gasket can leak oil.
- Headlamp Overheating (NBFL) – In the facelifted version, cases of headlamp lens cracking were reported.
Mazda MX-5 NC (2005-2015) – Problems
- Rust – Still present but less severe than in the NA and NB. Sensitive areas:
- Floor and rear wheel arches
- Lower parts of the doors
- Oil Consumption (2.0 MZR) – In older examples, engines may consume oil (especially if poorly maintained).
- Hardtop roof mechanism (Coupé-Cabrio) – It may get stuck after years of use.
- Transmission Synchronizers – Under aggressive driving, they may wear faster, especially in 6-speed gearboxes.
Mazda MX-5 ND (2015-present) – Problems
- Gearbox (2.0 Skyactiv) – In the first years of production (2015-2017), issues with the 6-speed gearbox (related to bearings) were reported in the more powerful versions.
- Weak Paint and Thin Body Panels – The lightweight body means the ND MX-5 is susceptible to scratches, chips, and dents from even minor impacts.
- Oil Leaks from the 2.0 Engine – Some examples had leaks around the oil pan gasket.
- Electronics Issues – In rare cases, there may be system errors and issues with the multimedia screen, which can be quite bothersome.
Basic Data Overview:
| Generation | Engine | Power (hp) | Weight (kg) | 0-100 km/h (62 mph) (s) | Top Speed (km/h) | Top Speed (mph) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NA | 1.6L | 90 | ~955 | 10,6 | 175 | 109 |
| NA | 1.6L | 115 | ~960 | 8,8 | 190 | 118 |
| NA | 1.8L | 130 | ~990 | 8,3 | 195 | 121 |
| NB | 1.6L | 110 | ~990 | 9,5 | 190 | 118 |
| NB | 1.8L | 140-146 | ~1050 | 8,2 | 200 | 124 |
| NC | 1.8L | 126 | ~1080 | 9,4 | 195 | 121 |
| NC | 2.0L | 160 | ~1130 | 7,9 | 210 | 130 |
| ND | 1.5L | 131 | ~960 | 8,3 | 204 | 127 |
| ND | 2.0L | 160-184 | ~1020 | 6,5 | 220 | 137 |
Buying – What to Expect at What Price?
Looking for a Miata on a lower budget, surprisingly, we no longer focus on the older NA models. Most of the available ones are well-maintained and cared-for examples, which will likely increase in value with proper upkeep over the years. The cheapest options will be the NB version with the 1.6L (115 hp) engine.
Unfortunately, buying a new Miata comes with emission fees in many markets, which increases the actual purchase cost. Check aslo my New vs. budget convertible? (Mini Cooper and Mazda MX-5) post.
However, prices are highly variable and depend on the condition, mileage, equipment, and engine choice. Therefore, instead of focusing on a specific generation, it’s best to consider multiple generations within your budget.
The fact remains that each of them, to some extent, will deliver driving pleasure and the freedom that comes with owning a convertible.
| Generation | Price in EUR | Price in USD |
|---|---|---|
| New Mazda MX-5 (ND) – 1.5 | ~34 800 EUR | ~39 150 USD |
| New Mazda MX-5 (ND) – 2.0 | ~43 200 EUR | ~48 600 USD |
| Used Mazda MX-5 NA (1989-1997) | ~7 200 – 19 200 EUR | ~8 100 – 21 600 USD |
| Used Mazda MX-5 NB (1998-2005) | ~4 800 – 12 000 EUR | ~5 400 – 13 500 USD |
| Used Mazda MX-5 NC (2005-2015) | ~7 200 – 16 800 EUR | ~8 100 – 18 900 USD |
| Used Mazda MX-5 ND (2015-obecnie) | ~19 200 – 36 000 EUR | ~21 600 – 40 500 USD |
