1990-1998 Mazda Miata: Full Review
Updated: 12/17/09
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1990-1998 Mazda Miata and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Acceleration (w/manual transmission)
- Antilock brakes (optional)
- Fuel economy
- Steering/handling
Cons
- Cargo room
- Road noise
Vehicle Highlights
The Miata performed an overnight resurrection in 1990 on what had previously been a virtually dead market--that of the affordable 2-seat roadster. Initial models arrived in one of three colors--red, white, or blue--with a powertrain consisting of a 116-horsepower, dual-cam 1.6-liter 4-cylinder and a 5-speed manual transmission. Late in the 1990 model year, a 4-speed automatic was added, which dropped the horsepower rating from 116 to 105. All models could be ordered with a removable hardtop. Standard first-year features included a driver-side airbag and a manual folding top.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Mazda Miata Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 3 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 7 | |
| Quietness | 2 | |
| Controls/Materials | 5 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 0 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 1 | |
| Value within Class | 8 | |
| Total Score: | 40 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1990-1998 Mazda Miata. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1990-1998 Mazda Miata.
Year to Year Changes
1991 Mazda Miata/MX-5 :
The most important change for 1991 was the availability of optional antilock brakes. ABS was offered as a stand-alone option and not part of any package.
1992 Mazda Miata/MX-5 :
For 1992, mechanical and appearance changes were limited to a few convenience items.
1993 Mazda Miata/MX-5 :
Minor trim and equipment revisions mark the fourth edition of the popular 2-seat convertible sports car.
1994 Mazda Miata/MX-5 :
A larger engine, a passenger-side airbag, and some structural stiffening mark the first major changes to Mazda's popular roadster since the Miata made its debut in 1990. The 1.6-liter engine gives way to a 1.8-liter unit. While the standard 4-wheel disc brakes have been enlarged, antilock brakes remain optional. Structural stiffening consists of new braces placed in the front and rear suspensions, as well as between the shoulder-belt anchors. Other changes include a new 12.7-gallon fuel tank in place of the 11.9-gallon unit and a new 7-spoke design for the optional alloy wheels. Arriving in the spring were two new versions of the Miata. The M-edition features both leather seating surfaces and wood trim on interior panels. Select the extra-cost R-edition and you find such performance upgrades as a sport-tuned suspension, limited-slip differential, alloy wheels, front/rear spoilers, and an "aero" rear skirt.
1995 Mazda Miata/MX-5 :
The 1995 Miata returns with only minor changes.
1996 Mazda Miata/MX-5 :
Like many cars, Mazda made changes inside both doors in order to meet 1997 federal standard for side-impact protection a year early. Along with structural changes to the doors, there's a redesigned interior door panel with map pockets as an added feature. Underneath the hood, Mazda tinkered with the 1.8-liter engine to lower emissions, and in the process managed to squeeze out some extra horsepower and torque.
1997 Mazda Miata/MX-5 :
The popular Miata convertible shuffles a few optional features, but is otherwise unchanged.
1998 Mazda Miata/MX-5 :
The original Miata made a short run in anticipation of the spring 1998 arrival of a new model.
Our road test for the 1990-1998 Mazda Miata includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1990-1998 Mazda Miata and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1990-1998 Mazda Miata is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
The Miata is lively, agile, simple, and fun-to-drive. While off-the-line acceleration is not terrific (0-60 in about 8.3 seconds), it shows flashes of brilliance in 2nd and 3rd gear, and it gets great mileage, with 25-27 mpg possible on a regular basis. The Miata maneuvers beautifully, is easy to handle, and hugs the road snugly. The ride can be choppy at times, given the fact body flex is the bane of all convertibles. Extra bracing added for the 1994 model year seems to improve the situation, however. Though the prominent exhaust note isn't inappropriate given the Miata's mission, there are also above-average quantities of wind and road noise. The cozy cockpit has well-placed gauges and controls, plus enough space to give tall people adequate room, permitting full enjoyment of the car's attributes. This is true despite the lack of any steering-wheel adjustment. Leg room is not a problem, but head room is tight. One golf bag or a couple of gym bags and the tonneau cover are about all that will fit in the small trunk, which also holds the mini-spare. There's also usable storage behind the seats (perhaps as much as afforded by the trunk).
Value for the Money
The first-generation Miata still looks and feels as good as it did when it arrived in 1989. If you're looking for an affordable, fun-to-drive sports car, there's little need to search further.
The first-generation Miata still looks and feels as good as it did when it arrived in 1989. If you're looking for an affordable, fun-to-drive sports car, there's little need to search further.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Mazda Miata Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 5 | |
| Ride Quality | 3 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 7 | |
| Quietness | 2 | |
| Controls/Materials | 5 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 0 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 1 | |
| Value within Class | 8 | |
| Total Score: | 40 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Mazda Miata/MX-5 includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Mazda Miata/MX-5 .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Audio system:
If tapes get stuck in the Panasonic radio/tape player, the unit must be removed and sent to a factory service center. (1990)
Engine noise:
A ticking noise from the top of the engine is likely due to inadequate hydraulic lash adjusters for the valves. (1990-93)
Engine noise:
Valve tapping or clicking is caused by restricted oil flow through the hydraulic lash adjusters. Redesigned parts are available. (1990-93)
Oil leak:
Early models often developed an oil leak at the plug in the drain pan unless the plug was tightened by hand with the gasket squarely in place before snugging with a wrench. (1990)
Timing belt:
There is a revised, more-robust timing-belt tensioner pulley to replace the original. (1990-94)
Windows:
The windows may not fully open because a cable comes loose blocking the window's travel. (1992-94)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $435 |
| Alternator | $245 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $940 |
| Brakes | $245 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $455 |
| Exhaust System | $290 |
| Radiator | $500 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $645 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $205 |
| Universal Joints | $380 |
Our price chart for this generation Mazda Miata/MX-5 details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 1997 | |||
| M-Edition | $4,200-4,800 | $3,400-3,900 | $1,400-1,600 |
| Miata | $3,700-4,300 | $3,000-3,500 | $1,100-1,200 |
| 1996 | |||
| M-Edition | $3,800-4,400 | $3,100-3,600 | $1,200-1,400 |
| Miata | $3,300-3,900 | $2,600-3,100 | $800-1,000 |
| 1995 | |||
| M-Edition | $3,400-4,000 | $2,700-3,200 | $900-1,000 |
| Miata | $3,000-3,600 | $2,300-2,800 | $700-800 |
| 1994 | |||
| M-Edition | $3,000-3,600 | $2,300-2,800 | $700-800 |
| Miata | $2,700-3,300 | $2,000-2,500 | $600-700 |
| 1993 | |||
| M-Edition | $2,700-3,200 | $2,000-2,400 | $600-700 |
| Miata | $2,400-3,000 | $1,700-2,200 | $500-600 |
| 1992 | |||
| M-Edition | $2,300-2,800 | $1,700-2,000 | $400-500 |
| Miata | $2,100-2,700 | $1,500-1,900 | $400-500 |
| 1991 | |||
| Miata | $1,800-2,400 | $1,200-1,600 | $300-400 |
| 1990 | |||
| Miata | $1,600-2,200 | $1,100-1,500 | $200-300 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Mazda Miata/MX-5 include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door convertible | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 89.2 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 155.4 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 65.9 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 48.2 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2293 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 3.6 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 11.9 | |
| Seating Capacity | 2 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 37.1 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.7 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | -- | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | -- | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
The first Miatas arrived with an aggressive little 16-valve, 1.6-liter twin-cam 4-cylinder delivering 116 horsepower. While the power output seems small, so is the Miata--tipping the scales at just over 2100 lbs. Acceleration is lively, especially with the slick-shifting 5-speed. The automatic dropped both fuel economy and horsepower output for the 1.6-liter. The Miata also loses much of its spunk with the automatic. There's just not enough torque to compensate. A larger 1.8-liter engine replaces the original 1.6-liter unit in 1994. The optional automatic also incorporates electronic shift controls. With the new powertrains, both manual and automatic transmissions deliver the same horsepower ratings--128 at 6500 rpm. Engine tuning to reduce emissions adds five more horsepower and four more pound-feet of torque for 1996, resulting in respectable outputs of 133 and 114.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc I4 | 1.6 / 97 | 105-116 | 100 | 5-speed manual: 24/30 4-speed automatic: 24/28 |
5-speed manual: 26.7 4-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc I4 | 1.8 / 112 | 128-133 | 110-114 | 5-speed manual: 23/29 4-speed automatic: 22/28 |
5-speed manual: 21.9 4-speed automatic: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: Japan
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Mazda Miata/MX-5 include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 1998 Miata |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 4 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 3 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1990-1998 Mazda Miata directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1990-91:
Rear turn-signal lamps may have insufficient amount of reflecting paint on inner surface.
1990-93 w/optional hardtop:
Plastic buckles on optional hoist accessory kit can break, causing hardtop to fall.
1991 w/ABS:
Return-fluid line of front-brake system on some cars is misconnected to return; when antilock comes into use, all fluid from front brakes goes to rear system, which may lead to increased stopping distance.
1995:
Airbag could deploy as a result of minor undercarriage impact.
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