Mazda Miata FAQs: Top Questions About the MX-5

Mazda Miata FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About the Classic Mazda Roadster

If you’re a newbie to the Miata community, or are considering buying your first Miata, you might have questions about the various generations that can be quickly answered by our Mazda Miata FAQs.

Or, maybe you’re a veteran of the Miata community but could use a quick refresher on some of the details regarding the four Mazda MX-5 Miata generations to date. No matter where you’re coming from, we’ve compiled a list of Mazda Miata frequently asked questions for reference.

We hope these quick takes on some of the Mazda Miata FAQs will help your understanding of the four generations of the Mazda MX-5 roadster that have been produced so far.

Mazda Miata FAQs Answered

What years was the NA Miata produced?

The first generation of the Mazda MX-5 Miata, the NA Miata, was produced from 1990 to 1997. It largely remained the same during the model’s initial generation, with a classic design sporting distinctive pop-up headlights. However, engine displacement was increased from 1.6 liters to 1.8 liters, and various special editions were released over the years.

What years was the NB Miata produced?

The second-generation NB Miata was produced from 1999 to 2005. NB1 Miata production only ran for the 1999 and 2000 model years, before the NB2 debuted, with its more sculpted and sporty exterior.

What years was the Miata NB1 produced?

The Miata NB1 years only ran from 1999 to 2000. Some found the NB1 Miata design was too round and not sporty or aggressive enough. So, the model’s rounded headlight design was quite quickly replaced by the Miata NB2’s more sculpted styling for the 2001 model year.

What years was the Miata NB2 produced?

The NB2 Miata years were from 2001 to 2005, quickly following the short-lived NB1 Miata and its rounded front-end design treatment. The Miata NB2 generation spawned the Mazdaspeed Miata, which til this day is still the only factory-turbocharged Miata.

What years was the NC Miata produced?

The NC Miata, or the third generation of the Miata, debuted for the 2006 model year and ran until 2015. This generation saw the “Miata” name dropped from the U.S. and other markets in favor of simply the “MX-5.” The third-generation MX-5 included the NC1, NC2 and NC3 versions.

What are the years of the NC1 MX-5 Miata?

The MX-5 Miata NC1 was produced from 2006 to 2008, with the 2007 model year introducing the PRHT or Power Retractable Hardtop model that would become a fixture throughout the rest of the NC generation’s run. The NC1 most closely resembles the original NA Miata’s design, with rounded headlights and a simplified exterior aesthetic.

What are the years of the NC2 MX-5 Miata?

The MX-5 Miata NC2 was produced from 2009 to 2012 and featured a more aggressive front fascia, highlighted by a larger, smiley grille in the lower air dam.

What are the years of the NC3 MX-5 Miata?

Lastly, the NC3 Miata model years were 2013 to 2015. Further refinements to the front grille were made, Club badging and MX-5 side stripes were offered, and the power-retractable hardtop or PRHT model could be had with a black top for a two-tone look.

What years was the ND Miata produced?

The ND Miata debuted for 2016 and remains the current or latest generation of Mazda’s MX-5 Miata. The ND2 arrived for 2019 with a boost to output, with a revised 2.0-liter engine developing 181 horsepower, increased from the ND1’s 155 hp.

What are the main differences between the NA and NB Miata?

The main differences between the NA and NB Miata include an increase in engine power (from 128 hp to 142 hp), a larger trunk, and the addition of optional ABS brakes and a passenger-side airbag.

What is the difference between the NA and NB Miatas?

The main differences between the NA and NB Miatas are in terms of engine power, body style, and interior features. The NA Miata started with a 1.6-liter engine and a more basic but classic interior design, while the NB features a slightly more powerful 1.8-liter engine and a more advanced and upgraded interior. There are also those pop-up headlights on the NA Miata, which were replaced with rounded fixed headlights in the NB generation.

How did the NC Miata improve upon the NB?

The NC Miata made several improvements upon the NB, including a more powerful engine, updated exterior styling, and a host of new interior features (including Bluetooth connectivity and an available navigation system). The NC also introduced a power-retractable hardtop option in place of the NB Miata’s available fixed hardtop.

What are the main changes from the NC to the ND Miata?

The main changes from the NC to the ND Miata include a decrease in weight (by around 220 lbs), an available increase in engine power (up to 181 hp in the ND2), an updated infotainment system, and LED headlights. The ND Miata is a bit smaller than the NC Miata, too, inside and out. Additionally, the ND features redesigned exterior styling and improved fuel economy.

Explore the NA, NB, NC, and ND Mazda Miata Models

While some things have stayed the same (like the Miata’s focus on fun and affordability), other aspects have changed quite a bit (like the addition of more powerful engines and advanced technologies).

Now that we’ve covered some of the Mazda Miata FAQs, you can take a more detailed look at the four generations of the Mazda MX-Miata to see how this iconic sports car has evolved over the years. No matter which generation you prefer, there’s no doubt that the Mazda MX-Miata is a true legend in the world of sports cars.