The Miata has long been a best-selling two-seat convertible sports car. Here’s what makes it so great.
Using the Lotus Elan as a benchmark, the Mazda MX-5 Miata has been around for 30 years and acquired a massive fanbase. The Miata has had a simple purpose since its inception in 1990. Its purpose is to be a fun car that exudes “Jinba Ittai,” which is Japanese for the “oneness of horse and rider.”
The keystone of the Miata’s design is its small, lightweight, modern, balanced, and simple design. The recipe Mazda used for making such a great car was simple, place the engine in the middle and make it rear-wheel drive (RWD). Interestingly, the MX-5 is the oldest member of Mazda’s global lineup. Finally, many have called the Miata the “spiritual successor” to the Italian and British roadsters of the ’50s and ’60s. Let’s see what they’re on about.
First-generation NA (1989-1997)
The first-generation Miata debuted in 1989 for the 1990 model year. Mazda chose the American-designed MX-5 over their Japanese-designed FWD unit. Mazda’s Japanese unit, located in Hiroshima drew up something that was akin to the Toyota MR2. The deciding factor between the two was the MX-5’s mid-engine and RWD setup. The original powerhouse of the Miata was a 116 hp 1.6L I4 engine capable of getting 24 combined mpg. This was coupled with a five-speed manual transmission.
The new Miata weighed in at a mere 2,100 lbs, and for its size, it offered a decent amount of space. Whereas the newer Miata’s got increasingly more serious when it came to performance, the original Miata was a playful thing. From its pop-up headlights to its rounded bumper, the first generation would have to be described as a puppy, as opposed to an angry Chihuahua.
First-generation Yearly Updates
- 1991 – An anti-lock braking system (ABS) and four-speed automatic transmission was made optional for the Miata.
- 1994 – A new 1.8L I4 engine replaced the 1.6L I4, adding 12 more horses. To compensate for the massive horsepower gain, a larger fuel tank and rotors were fitted to the Miata. Also, the optional viscous limited-slip differential (LSD) was changed to a more robust Torsen LSD. To increase safety, Mazda added a brace behind the seats, an anti-theft system, and a passenger-side airbag to the Miata.
- 1996 – A new ECU helped the 1.8L engine find five more horsepower. Also, the antiquated OBD-I port was replaced by the modern OBD-II port.
First-generation MX-5 Miata: Problem Areas
Some common problems for the first-gen. Miata include a transmission that gets stuck in reverse, seat belts that don’t latch properly, and unexpected air bad deployment. However, the most important thing to look for when buying an NA Miata is rust.
Second-generation NB (1999-2005)
After taking a year-long hiatus, a new Miata was released for the 1999 model year. Although from a glance the second generation looked similar to the first, this was not the case. Key differences included a seven-horsepower stronger engine, a newly optional six-speed manual transmission, and improved ride and handling.
However, the most noticeable (and unfortunate) change was the removal of pop-up headlights. Regrettably, this is where the previous playful, fun-loving Miata we once knew took a turn towards the land of performance. Increased performance is great, however, never at the expense of pop-up headlights.
Second-generation Yearly Updates
- 2001 – The Miata received updated headlights, taillights, and wheels. Also, thanks to variable-valve timing (VVT), the Miata’s horsepower was increased to 155.
- 2004 – Although Mazda had been releasing special editions since the inception of the Miata, an important one finally arrived on the scene. Mazda’s performance division, Mazdaspeed added a turbocharger to the I4 engine increasing horsepower to 178. But that’s not all, Mazdaspeed Miata’s came with a torque-sensing LSD, 17-inch wheels with performance tires, and a firmer suspension.
Second-generation MX-5 Miata: Problem Areas
Similar to the NA, all NBs should be checked for rust before purchasing. With the exception of MY 1999-2000, the second-generation Miata’s reliability was sturdy. The only problem (besides rust) to be found on the 1999-2000 model years was faulty coil packs.
However, the good news is that this is a relatively cheap and easy fix, less than $100 if you do it yourself. With the 1999-2000 model years excluded, the second-gen. received less than 20 complaints on average per model year according to the NHTSA.
Unlike the last generation, the NB had been tested by the NHTSA. The results were astounding as the Miata scored 4/5 stars for driver safety and 5/5 for passenger safety. Thus, not only is the second-generation Miata reliable, but it’s also rather safe. Interestingly, this was the only Miata to ever be tested by the NHTSA.
Third-generation NC (2006-2015)
Contrary to the transition from NA to NB, the NC was a complete redesign of the Miata. Aside from the fender-mounted turn signals and internals for the rear-differential, the NC shared no parts with the NB.
A 170-horsepower 2.0L I4 engine replaced the previous 1.8L. The standard transmission of choice was a five-speed manual, while a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters and a six-speed manual was also offered. Also, ABS and side-curtain airbags were made standard. All of these changes coupled with a new unibody construction led Mazda to drop the Miata nameplate for the sportier-sounding MX-5.
Third-generation Yearly Updates
- 2007 – Adding 100 lbs, a controversial power retractable hardtop (PRHT) was added to the Miata. Purists argue that because this marginally decreases performance the PRHT is sacrilegious.
- 2009 – The MX-5 underwent a facelift. The new front bumper looked very similar to those found on the RX-8 and Mazda3. Suspension on the Miata was upgraded to combat understeer which previously plagued the vehicle.
- 2012 – Traction control (TC) and stability control (SC) were made standard for all trims.
- 2013 – The Miata received another minor facelift. In the name of performance, Mazda retuned the engine control unit (ECU) on the manual transmission to supply a more linear throttle response.
Third-generation MX-5 Miata: Problem Areas
Across the ten model years of the NC Miata, the NHTSA reports that there were a meager 40 complaints. That is four complaints per model year on average, thus the third generation is another testament to the Miata’s reliability. Pair that with the fact that the NC Miata has never been recalled and it is a fair assumption to say the NC will not give owners many problems if any at all.
Similar to the NA, the safety of the NC was never tested by either the IIHS or the NHTSA. So, the only claim to safety can come from the previous generation NB, which received 4/5 and 5/5 stars for driver and passenger safety, respectively.
Fourth-generation ND (2016-Present)
The redesigned fourth-generation Miata was released for the 2016 model year. The new generation Miata was revolutionary as opposed to evolutionary. This is because Mazda decided to bring the ND back to its roots.
Similar to the NA, the ND weighed in at a mere 2,300 lbs. Mazda had fitted a new 2.0L I4 engine to the fourth generation which scaled horsepower back to 155 compared to the previous 170-horsepower NC.
The partner in crime for this new engine was a six-speed manual transmission, though a six-speed automatic was still optional. Thanks to the lightweight posture of the ND Miata, it is the quickest Miata ever made, beating the original Mazdaspeed in the 0-60 test.
However, the new Miata was not without fault. In fact, there are two key flaws noted for the most recent generation. The first thing most drivers notice is the poorly located cupholders. It seems this was a case of Mazda building the MX-5, then proceeding to realize they forgot cupholders, so they threw them wherever it was easiest.
Also, to the annoyance of Miata purists, the hydraulic steering setup was replaced by a new electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) unit. Despite these flaws, Fiat-Chrysler still enlisted Mazda’s help in designing their new Fiat 124 Spider.
Fourth-generation Yearly Updates
- 2017 – As opposed to the forgettably-named PRHT, a new RF (retractable fastback) version cropped up. The concept was similar to the previous PRHT, as it was a powered top as opposed to a manual.
- 2019 – Met with praise from both short and tall drivers alike, Mazda made a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel standard on the Miata for the first time ever. Also, Mazda made a backup camera standard and revised the cupholders. However, these upgrades were overshadowed by Mazda adding 26 hp and increasing the redline to 7,500 rpm.
- 2020 – Driver’s safety features were made standard for all trims.
- 2021 – Wireless Apple CarPlay was made standard for the Miata.
Fourth-generation MX-5 Miata: Problem Areas
Aside from the cupholders, drivers have not reported many complaints to the NHTSA. However, there have been two recalls for the ND Miata. For the 2016 model year, the skid plate could detach and become a road hazard, however, Mazda recalled this in 2019.
Also, recalled in 2019, faulty transmission software can cause the Miata to abruptly downshift causing the driver to lose control. Again, both of these problems have been recalled. When it comes to safety, yet again this generation was not tested by the IIHS or the NHTSA, thus we can only use the NB as a benchmark, which faired well in both the driver and passenger-side crashes.
Also, with added safety equipment, the fourth generation should be the safest yet.
Best MX-5 Miata to Buy
So long as the Miata you choose to buy is healthy and aligns with your purpose for buying it, there is no such thing as a bad one. For example, if you are looking for your next family vehicle, it’s best you steer clear of the Miata (unless you are a family of two, of course).
A common reason for buying a Miata is the desire for a performance vehicle. While it can certainly provide, some are better than others at meeting this criterion.
If you can afford it, go for the 2019 model-year (and forward), because the newly tweaked fourth-genenerations are the fastest stock Miata money can buy. However, if you plan on modifying one, consider a 2001 NB for a cheap and adaptable platform.
For those who are either purists or want to buy a Miata for “bee bopping” around, the first generation is a must-have. Any one of the first generations will not disappoint those who want the “Miata charm.” Due to the pop-up headlights and the rounded bumper, the first-generation is widely regarded as the happiest of all Miatas.
However, if you want better performance, a 1999 Mazda Miata will do the trick. In addition to the cute characteristics, stiff suspension, and decent horsepower, Kelley Blue Book calls it “A fun, inexpensive two-seater that is reliable.”
Worst MX-5 Miata to Buy
It is no surprise that the Miata has a cult following, likely because there has never been a bad generation. All are fun to drive and are very reliable.
However, when buying a Miata, be sure to check for the common problems listed above. Namely, rust on the NA and NB generations. Also, consider your purpose for buying a Miata and make sure that the generation aligns with your intentions for the car.
Should You Buy an MX-5 Miata?
All things considered, the Miata makes an excellent addition to most garages. While it will not be replacing a minivan, SUV, or even a mid-size sedan anytime soon, it’s a great secondary vehicle. For those who like modifying their vehicles, the Miata is receptive to just about any configuration you can think of.
The NB is the best of the bunch for those who want to mod their Miata. This is due to their low cost, which means more money for upgrades. Those interested in restoring a first-gen. will be happy to know, thanks to Mazda’s factory restoration program, new parts are still made for them. For those interested in special editions, it’s important to note that there was one for nearly every model year.
Photos: Mazda; Wikicommons; DepositPhotos
