Mazda MX-5 (NA)

Mazda MX-5 (NA)
Overview
Manufacturer Mazda
Also called
  • Eunos Roadster (Japan)
  • Mazda MX-5 Miata (U.S.)
Production May 1989–1997
Assembly Hiroshima, Japan (Hiroshima Plant)
Designer
Body and chassis
Class Roadster, sports car (S)
Body style 2-door convertible
Layout FMR layout
Platform Mazda NA
Powertrain
Engine
Transmission
Dimensions
Wheelbase 2,265 mm (89.2 in)
Length 3,950 mm (155.5 in)
Width 1,675 mm (65.9 in)
Height 1,230 mm (48.4 in)
Curb weight 940 kg (2,070 lb)
Chronology
Successor Mazda MX-5 (NB)

The Mazda MX-5 (NA) (sold in Japan as the Eunos Roadster and in North America as the Mazda MX-5 Miata) is the first generation of the Mazda MX-5 manufactured from 1989 to 1997. Inspired by the post-war era British sports cars, the MX-5 rejuvenated interest in roadsters after the demise of cars such as the MG B and Triumph Spitfire. Since its debut, the MX-5 has won numerous automotive awards and has become the world's best selling sports car.[1]

Background

The MX-5 was unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show on February 10, 1989, with a price tag of US$14,000.[2] The MX-5, with production code NA, was made available for delivery to buyers worldwide in the following dates: May 1989 (as a 1990 model) in the US and Canada; September 1, 1989 in Japan; and 1990 in Europe. An optional hardtop was made available at the same time, in sheet moulding compound (SMC). Demand initially outstripped production, fueled by enthusiastic press reviews.

In Japan, the car was not badged as a Mazda, as the company was experimenting with the creation of different marques for deluxe models, similar to Nissan's Infiniti, Honda's Acura and Toyota's Lexus. Instead, the Mazda MX-5 was sold as the Eunos Roadster in Japan, and was joined by the MX-3/AZ-3/Eunos Presso (based on Japanese Mazda dealerships). The exterior dimensions were also in compliance with Japanese Government dimension regulations, and the two engines provided Japanese buyers a choice that obligated an affordable road tax option.

Mazda MX-5 with hardtop (Australia)

The body shell of the NA was all-steel with a lightweight aluminum hood. Overall dimensions were 3,970 mm (156 in) in length, 1,675 mm (65.9 in) in width, and 1,235 mm (48.6 in) in height. Without options, the NA weighed only 980 kg (2,160 lb). It had a drag coefficient of Cd=0.38. Suspension was an independent double wishbone on all four wheels, with an anti-roll bar at the front and rear. Four-wheel disc brakes, ventilated at the front, were behind alloy wheels with 185/60HR14 radial tires. The base model came with stamped steel wheels from the then-current 323/Protege.

1990 Mazda MX-5 1600cc DOHC 4-cylinder engine. This example has been modified with the addition of a GReddy TD04 (Mitsubishi) turbocharger kit

The original MX-5 came with a 1.6 L (98 cu in) DOHC inline four-cylinder engine, producing 86 kW (115 bhp) at 6,500 rpm, and 136 N⋅m (100 lbf⋅ft) of torque at 5,500 rpm. The engine employs an electronic fuel injection system using a vane-type air flow meter and an electronic ignition system with a camshaft angle sensor instead of a distributor.[3] This engine, codenamed B6ZE(RS), was specifically designed for the MX-5 and featured a lightened crankshaft, flywheel, and aluminum sump with cooling fins.

The standard transmission was a five-speed manual, derived from the one used in the Mazda 929/Luce (also rear-wheel drive).[4] The gear shift was the subject of close attention during development, with engineers told to make it shift in as small a gear pattern as possible and with minimal effort.[5] In Japan and the US, an optional automatic transmission was also offered but proved to be unpopular. The Japanese and American markets also received an optional viscous limited-slip differential, although it was only available for cars with a manual transmission. To achieve the low introductory price, the base model was stripped. It had steel wheels, manual steering, roll-up windows, and no stereo or air-conditioning. Power steering, air-conditioning, and stereo were added as standard equipment in later years.

The NA could reach 97 km/h (60 mph) in 8.3 seconds and had a top speed of 203 km/h (126 mph) although Japanese market Eunos models were limited to 180 km/h (110 mph). This first generation of Miata (often referred to as the NA) included a special Limited Edition of 250 examples in 1991, produced in British racing green with the first use of tan interior, to celebrate the highly successful launch of the MX-5 in the UK. These have a numbered brass plaque on the dash above the glovebox and on the front of the Owners Book,[6] and are fitted with alloy wheels from MSW (Mazda Sports Workshop) which are often mistaken for BBS, but which are entirely unique to this model.

Interior.

In 1993, 1,500 LE (Limited Edition) cars were produced. This model featured red leather interior, upgraded stereo, Nardi shift knob, leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, limited-slip differential, power windows, power mirrors, power steering, air conditioning, BBS wheels, Bilstein shocks, front and rear spoilers, ABS brakes, stainless sill plates, and Harley style peanut tank door speaker trim. All 1993 LE cars came in black.

For the 1994 model year, the first-generation MX-5 was freshened with the introduction of the more powerful 1,839 cc (1.8 L; 112.2 cu in) BP-ZE engine, dual airbags and a limited-slip differential in some markets. The chassis was substantially braced to meet new side-impact standards, most visibly by adding a "track bar" between the seatbelt towers inside the car, but also to the front and rear subframes. Also, 1994 and 1995 were the only years in which Mazda offered a light metallic blue paint (Laguna Blue Mica), making these cars rare collectors cars to some. 1994 also saw the introduction of the "R" package, a sport-themed package with Bilstein shocks, stiffer sway bars, retuned springs, subtle front and rear underbody spoilers, and a Torsen LSD. Air conditioning was optional, but the "R" package was not available with power steering, leather, or an automatic transmission. It can also be identified by a red Miata badge on the rear instead of the usual black. No body style changes were made, however.

The new 1,839 cc (1.8 L; 112.2 cu in) engine produced 96 kW (129 bhp) at 6,500 rpm and 149 N⋅m (110 lbf⋅ft) of torque at 5,500 rpm[7], which was then increased to 99 kW (133 bhp) at 6,500 rpm and 155 N⋅m (114 lbf⋅ft) of torque at 5,500 rpm for the 1996 model year [8]. The base weight increased to 990 kg (2,180 lb). Performance was thus improved slightly, because the additional weight was more than offset by the extra power. In some markets such as Europe, the 1.6 L (98 cu in) engine continued to be available as a lower-cost option, but was detuned to 66 kW (89 bhp). This lower-powered model did not receive all the additional chassis bracing of the new 1.8 L (110 cu in). Japanese and U.S. models offered an optional Torsen LSD, which was far more durable than the previous viscous differential.

The retractable headlamps of the NA (front car) were replaced by fixed headlamps on the NB (rear car).

There were a number of trim levels and special editions available, determined by local Mazda marketing departments. In the US, the base model was offered for US$13,995 at launch and was very basic, with manual windows, steel wheels, and without air conditioning or power steering. The "A Package" offered power steering, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, aluminum alloy wheels and cassette stereo. The "B Package" added power windows, along with cruise control and headrest speakers, while the "C Package" included a tan interior and top and leather seats. The "R Package" was for racing, and the annual special editions were formalized as "M Editions". These included all of the luxury options from the "C Package" as well as special paint and, sometimes, special wheels. In the UK, to celebrate Mazda's 24 hours of Le Mans win, Mazda brought out a special edition of the MX-5, with the winner's color scheme (see Mazda 787B) and came equipped with BBR (Brodie Brittain Racing) turbo conversion; the car is one of the most sought after special edition cars of the MX-5s.

The first generation MX-5 was phased out after the 1997 model year (with the exception of 400 limited edition Berkeley models sold only in the UK in 1999 to mark the end of the NA), with the final 1,500 NAs produced for the US market being the "STO" ("Special Touring Option") versions.

Special editions

Facelift Mazda MX-5 (Australia)
1991 Special Edition

Limited to 3,997 units, this edition of the MX-5 NA was offered only in British racing green with tan leather interior and tonneau cover and featured a wooden Nardi shift knob and handbrake lever, stainless steel door sills, air conditioning, CD player, cruise control, and headrest speakers.[9]

1992 Sunburst

A US$250 option for the exclusive Sunburst Yellow color, limited to 1,519 units.[9]

1992 Black Miata

Limited to 4,625 units, this edition was offered only in Brilliant Black with tan leather interior, Nardi shift knob and handbrake lever and special 14" BBS wheels.[9]

1993 Limited Edition

Limited to 1,505 units, this Limited Edition model was equipped similarly to the 1992 Black Miata, but with red leather interior, sport suspension, front and rear spoilers, rear skirt, air conditioning, and headrest speakers.[9]

1994 M-Edition

Limited to 3,000 units, the M-Edition introduced the Montego Blue Mica exterior color and was equipped similarly to the 1992 Black Miata, but with power windows, power mirrors, power door locks, a Torsen limited-slip differential and special M-Edition badges.[9]

1995 M-Edition

An upgrade to the 1994 M-Edition in Merlot Metallic with adjustable headrests and 15" BBS wheels, this M-Edition MX-5 was limited to 3,500 units.[9]

1996 M-Edition

The 1996 M-Edition was in Starlight Blue Mica and added an alarm system and used 15" Enkei wheels. A total of 3,000 units were manufactured.[9]

1997 M-Edition

The final M-Edition was offered in Marina Green and limited to 3,000 units.[9]

1997 Special Touring Option

Advertised by Mazda USA as "Still The One" and limited to 1,500 units, the Special Touring Option (STO) was offered in Twilight Blue Mica and featured the exterior options of the 1996 M-Edition, but lacked the Torsen differential, cruise control, premium stereo, and hardtop.[9]

M2 special editions

A small range of Eunos Roadster units were assembled by the M2 Incorporated. Founded in November 1991, M2, also known as "Mazda Too", was Mazda's new off-line planning / niche-house / Research & Development company back in the early '90s. The M2 Corp. employees had noble intentions — creating niche-mobiles derived from Mazda's volume products. Although M2's basic mission involved focusing on the "soft" aspects of vehicle design in an attempt to create more specifically targeted niche variants, the changes to the off-line cars would go well beyond mere cosmetics.

Heading the M2 operation was Mr. Masakatsu Kato, original father of the Miata (Eunos Roadster) in Japan, as well as creator of several Mazda concept vehicles. Kato-san was assisted by Hirotaka Tachibana, development engineer responsible for the superb dynamics of the Mazda FC (second generation RX-7) and the NA Roadster. M2 Corp. was based out of Tokyo, Japan. M2-Corp was a 100% owned subsidiary of Mazda, and it was closed by Mazda in 1995. Mazda kept a similar program going with the Mazdaspeed vehicles, and then in the late '90s Mazdaspeed was absorbed into Mazda as a subsidiary company in Mazda Auto Tokyo. There were many types of M2 branded vehicles between 1991 and 1995, beginning with the 1001 up to the 1031 Cafe Racer (Dec-91).

M2-1001 Cafe Roadster (Limited 1/300)

M2 Corp. released the M2-1001 Roadster in December 1991. It was a special "Limited Production" Roadster variant that was a short production run of only 300 units, in a special Blue/Black Mica Paint, with a sticker price of $26,000. Prospective buyers were required to show up in person at M2's Tokyo headquarters to register for a lottery to place an order for this extremely limited Roadster.

This upscale Roadster was M2's first turn-key, race-ready offering. A list of popular features, while not exhaustive, is as follows: functional front airdam with integrated fog lamps, vintage aero mirrors, 4-point roll bar, vintage gauge cluster, fixed back bucket seats, polished 3-spoke steering wheel, stiffer suspension package with M2 specific rates, polished aluminum strut brace, upgraded exhaust by HKS, intake system, 1.6 L motor with new aggressive pistons, upgraded camshaft, lightweight flywheel, LSD cooling intake, manual steering, manual windows (A/C was optional), racing pedals, centerless console with matching shortened radio bezel, aluminum gas filler cap, a more aggressive wheel & tire package (15" x 6" Panasport rims), and a rear spoiler (which became standard for the R package). The performance changes made to the Roadster would bump the power to 98 kW (131 bhp) at 7,000 rpm, and 148 N⋅m (109 lbf⋅ft) of torque at 5,500 rpm. Once released, it proved so popular that people were paying up to $35,000 for one.

M2-1002 Vintage Roadster (Limited 1/300)

M2 Corp. released its second Roadster in November 1992, with a slightly different front bumper but all the same items as the previous 1001 Roadster. This one did not do as well as the 1001.

M2-1028 Street Competition Roadster (Limited 1/300)

M2-Corp released its third Roadster in February 1994, based on the original "Jinba Ittai" concept made by Toshihiko Hirai. This was billed as a track-ready Roadster. (The US saw a cheaper version known as the R-Package.) Offered in Chaste White or Brilliant Black only, this Roadster used the new 1.8 L powerplant with upgraded pistons, camshafts, and other similar goodies as the previous 1001 and 1002. This Roadster had an output of close to 110 kW (150 bhp), and included 14" Eunos Factory Rims with a unique gunmetal paint with polished lip. The only real changes were a new set of lightweight side mirrors, MOMO Steering Wheel, centerless console, racing seats, racing tow hook, a set of lower lip spoilers (R-Package), and a newly designed "Duck-Tail" trunk lid with integrated spoiler. The M2-1028 trunk lid was made from aluminum and weighed only 3.5 kg (7.7 lb), a very light weight from the original lid of 7.0 kg (15.4 lb). It also came with a 6-point roll cage, but no soft-top, instead featuring a tarp that stretched over the cage. With optional FRP Hardtop with plexiglass rear window for more weight savings coming in at only 8.6 kg (19 lb).

Turbo conversions

Brodie Britain Racing (BBR) of Brackley, UK, have had a long history of involvement with NA models in the UK, having supplied parts and equipment for a dealer supplied BBR Turbo version of the car between 1990 and 1991. This raised power output to 110 kW (150 bhp), and produced 209 N⋅m (154 ft⋅lb) of torque. The kit consisted of 68 parts and was covered by a full dealer warranty. They were supplied and fitted to around 750 UK spec cars, including for the 1991 'Le Mans' special edition, with a further 150 kits being supplied overseas.[10] Two decades later in 2011, BBR now offer a turn-key refurbishment package for old NA MX-5's, again including a turbo charger kit. This now increases power output to 160 kW (210 bhp), and produces 237 N⋅m (175 ft⋅lb) of torque. The estimated top speed is now 230 km/h (140 mph), with 0–97 (60 mph) approached in 5.5 seconds. The turbo charger used is a Garrett AiResearch GT25 ball bearing unit, and the package also includes an air-to-air intercooler, and a digital piggy-back ECU to control timing, fueling, and boost pressures. Subject to a satisfactory donor car, the refurbishment and turbo upgrade package includes rust treatment, a paint respray, new seats, wheels, and other trim. As of January 2011 the cost for a 'refreshed' BBR MX-5 Turbo is £7,500.[11]

In the United States, NA (and later model) turbo conversions are available from companies like Flyin' Miata and Bell Tuning. The conversions use mainly Garrett turbochargers (2860, 2556) and are available as a kit or fully installed. Bell Engineering offers a CARB-approved kit as well.

Factory restoration program

In 2018, Mazda began a factory restoration program for Eunos Roadster owners in Japan. The program has each Roadster fully restored to factory-spec using OEM parts and certified by TÜV Rheinland.[12][13] Over 600 owners applied for the restoration program. On September 27, 2018, Mazda unveiled the first fully restored Roadster: a 1992 V-Special in British racing green with tan leather interior. The car belongs tomato farmer Keiji Nishimoto, who has owned it since new.[14]

The Automotive Researchers' and Journalists' Conference of Japan gave the program a Special Award for Classic Car Restoration Service at the 2018 RJC Car of the Year Awards.[15]

In media

The Mazda MX-5 NA is portrayed in the 2006 Disney/Pixar film Cars as the identical twins Mia and Tia.[16][17] The car has also made film appearances in MacGruber[18] and Looper.[19]

Technical specifications (UK)

Drivetrain specifications by generation (UK market)[10]
Model year(s)Model no(s).Chassis code(s)Engine typeEngine codeTransmission(s)Power@rpmTorque@rpmRedline
1990–19931.6iNA1.6 L inline-4B6ZE(RS)5-speed MT85 kW (114 bhp) @ 6,500136 N⋅m (100 ft⋅lbf) @ 5,5007,200 rpm
1994–19981.6iNA1.6 L inline-4B6ZE(RS)5-speed MT66 kW (88 bhp) -
1994–19951.8iNA1.8 L inline-4BP-4W5-speed MT95 kW (128 bhp) @ 6,500149 N⋅m (110 ft⋅lbf) @ 5,0007,000 rpm
1996–19971.8iNA1.8 L inline-4BP-4W5-speed MT99 kW (133 bhp) @ 6,500155 N⋅m (114 ft⋅lbf) @ 5,5007,000 rpm

Awards and recognition

References

  1. "Mazda Produces One-Millionth Mazda MX-5". Mazda. 2016-04-25. Retrieved 2018-10-01.
  2. "Mazda 5 Sport PriceE Tag". Release Car Dates. 2016-01-08. Archived from the original on 2016-08-13. Retrieved 2016-08-13.
  3. Garrett, Norman (1998), Mazda Miata Performance Handbook, Osceola, WI: Motorbooks International, p. 9, ISBN 0-7603-0437-8
  4. Anderson, Donn, ed. (April 1993). "Limited Green". New Zealand Car. Auckland, New Zealand: Accent Publishing Cnr. 7 (6): 57. ISSN 0113-0196.
  5. Garrett, p. 10
  6. "Mazda MX-5 Limited Edition". Mx5-mazda.co.uk. Retrieved 2013-11-15.
  7. "1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata". Automobile-catalog.com. Retrieved 2018-06-12.
  8. "1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata". Automobile-catalog.com. Retrieved 2018-06-12.
  9. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Okulski, Travis (2015-01-30). "Your Guide To Every Special Edition Mazda Miata Ever Sold In America". Jalopnik. Retrieved 2018-10-04.
  10. 1 2 You and Your MX5/Miata, Liz Turner 2002, Haynes Publishing, ISBN 1-85960-847-7.
  11. EVO magazine, Issue 153, February 2011, pages 88–91
  12. "NA Roadster Restore". Mazda. Retrieved 2018-09-22.
  13. Silvestro, Brian (2017-08-04). "Mazda Launches Factory Restoration Program for Miata". Road & Track. Retrieved 2018-09-22.
  14. Silvestro, Brian (2018-09-27). "This Is the First Factory-Restored Mazda MX-5 Miata". Road & Track. Retrieved 2018-09-29.
  15. 1 2 "第27回(2018年次)RJC カー オブ ザ イヤー". Automotive Researchers' and Journalists' Conference of Japan. Retrieved 2018-10-03.
  16. Heyman, Dan (2017-06-02). "Identifying the Cars of Cars 3". AutoTrader.ca. Retrieved 2018-10-03.
  17. Nordstrom, Karl. "The twins in Cars 1 & 2 are Miatas!". CarThrottle. Retrieved 2018-10-03.
  18. Smith, Sam (2010-01-20). "MacGruber Movie Has A Hero In A Miata, We Are Not Conflicted". Jalopnik. Retrieved 2018-10-03.
  19. George, Patrick (2012-10-13). "The Future Is Grim In Looper, But At Least There Are Classic Miatas". Jalopnik. Retrieved 2018-10-03.
  20. Jennings, Jean (2013-11-18). "First Time's the AOY Charm: 1990 Mazda Miata | Automobile Magazine". Automobile Magazine. US. Retrieved 2017-03-14.
  21. "Mazda MX-5 Miata - 10Best Cars". Car and Driver. Retrieved 2018-05-27.
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