1999-2005 Mazda Miata: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
Reviews & Ratings
Pricing
Explore
Specifications & Safety
Related to Mazda Miata/MX-5
Related Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1999-2005 Mazda Miata and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Fuel economy
- Acceleration
- Steering/handling
Cons
- Cargo room
- Entry/exit
- Noise
Vehicle Highlights
Mazda had triggered a "roadster revolution" when it introduced a rear-drive sports car named Miata, as an early 1990 model. A decade later, the Miata was redesigned, though its basic shape changed little. Dimensions were nearly identical to the prior model, but the Miata offered more trunk space. Exposed headlamps replaced the former flip-up units. Inside were a new instrument panel, three-spoke steering wheel, and standard CD player. Powered by a 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine, the Miata could have a 5-speed manual or optional 4-speed automatic transmission. Horsepower went up by 7, torque by 5 lb-ft. A 6-speed manual gearbox became available on the 10th anniversary model. Tire sizes were unchanged. Four-wheel disc brakes were standard, with antilocking an option. The manual-folding soft top now contained a defrosting glass rear window, and a removable plastic hardtop was optional. A road-racing Sports Package was available as an option. Rivals included the BMW Z3 series, as well as the forthcoming Honda S2000 and Toyota MR2 Spyder. Some people consider the Chevrolet Camaro, Pontiac Firebird, and Ford Mustang to be competitors as well, though they're of a different breed.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Mazda Miata Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 7 | |
| Ride Quality | 3 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 8 | |
| Quietness | 2 | |
| Controls/Materials | 8 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 0 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 1 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 44 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1999-2005 Mazda Miata. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1999-2005 Mazda Miata.
Year to Year Changes
2000 Mazda Miata/MX-5 :
A new uplevel LS model joined the 2000 lineup, featuring leather upholstery, power locks, cruise control, 15-inch wheels (instead of 14-inch), and a limited-slip differential. Some previously optional equipment became standard this year, including alloy wheels, power steering, power windows, and a leather-wrapped Nardi steering wheel. Antilock braking was optional only on the LS edition. No 6-speed models were available this year, but lower-body aero styling from the previous year's anniversary car was a new option.
2001 Mazda Miata/MX-5 :
Mazda asserted that the Miata's engine gained 15 horsepower this year, but that claim was later squelched after tests showed a figure of 142 hp. Base models switched from 14- to 15-inch tires, the front fascia was restyled, and the interior was revised. Seats were redone, with a new console and chrome gauge bezels. Brake modifications aimed at improved stopping power, while chassis revisions were introduced to increase rigidity. For the first time, 16-inch tires were available--standard on the LS edition.
2002 Mazda Miata/MX-5 :
Little changed for 2002, except for a newly optional in-dash 6-disc CD changer. As before, the Miata had a manual-folding soft top with a heated glass rear window, and a removable hardtop was available. ABS was optional only on the LS model, which could also have a 6-speed manual gearbox. Base Miatas could be fitted with 16-inch tires, which were standard on the LS. Appearance packages included rear mud guards and more pronounced side sills. Two special-edition models were launched in midseason, first seen at the Chicago Auto Show.
2003 Mazda Miata/MX-5 :
Base versions of Mazda's 2-seat sports car exchanged standard 15-inch wheels for 16s. Introduced in late spring were the Club Sport, which deleted air conditioning and power steering and was aimed at racing enthusiasts; the Shinsen Version that slotted between the base and LS; and the new top-line SE with unique trim.
2004 Mazda Miata/MX-5 :
Mazda's sports car received only minor styling revisions in 2004.
2005 Mazda Miata/MX-5 :
New for 2005 is the MazdaSpeed Grand Touring, which adds leather upholstery.
Our road test for the 1999-2005 Mazda Miata includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1999-2005 Mazda Miata and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1999-2005 Mazda Miata is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
In its modestly modified form, the Miata preserved its original fun-to-drive nature while adding a little muscle. Quite simply, Miatas represent front-engine sports-car tradition--in contrast to the Toyota MR2 Spyder, introduced for 2000, which is a midengine model. Both are terrific fun to drive. Mazda offers more cargo space, as well as brisk performance--especially at low speeds and when passing. An early example accelerated to 60 mph in about 8 seconds. There seems to be no great difference in performance between the 5- and 6-speed manual transmission, but automatic-equipped Miatas are not nearly so responsive. As for economy, an early 5-speed model yielded 25.8 mpg. Road, wind, and engine noise are prominent, but normal conversation is possible at 60 mph with the top down. Stopping power is strong and easily modulated. Over rippled pavement, some body flex and cowl shake is inevitable. Handling is sheer delight--reflexes razor-sharp, with steering a model of accuracy. Stability on straightaways and in turns was improved. Factory-type tires, on the other hand, furnish poor traction on snow-covered pavement. Good winter tires are a far better choice. Though not quite as spacious inside as the MR2, the Miata offers decent room for two medium-size adults, though six-footers have no excess of leg space. Entry/exit is a matter of bending and twisting, as in most true sports cars. The console lid release is hard to reach, and its cover must be open to use the poorly designed cupholders. Small windows hamper visibility, but the defrosting glass back window is welcome. The trunk holds a couple of soft overnight bags. Workmanship is good, using quality materials and tight assembly.
Value for the Money
Especially in base form, the Miata represents greater value than, say, a Toyota MR2 Spyder--partly due to its greater cargo capacity, which makes it a more practical driver. On the fun-per-dollar scale, a Miata is unmatched.
Especially in base form, the Miata represents greater value than, say, a Toyota MR2 Spyder--partly due to its greater cargo capacity, which makes it a more practical driver. On the fun-per-dollar scale, a Miata is unmatched.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Mazda Miata Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 5 | |
| Fuel Economy | 7 | |
| Ride Quality | 3 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 8 | |
| Quietness | 2 | |
| Controls/Materials | 8 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 0 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 1 | |
| Value within Class | 6 | |
| Total Score: | 44 |
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.
Cigarette lighter:
The cigarette lighter can be easily damaged if an accessory with the wrong-size plug is installed in the outlet. (1999-01)
Cruise control:
The cruise control may not hold steady (varying upward), or the decel feature may not work due to failed transistors in the control unit. (1999)
Engine noise:
The bearing caps on some early production 1.8-L engines may not have been machined properly, causing a rattling noise from the engine requiring a new block. (1999)
Exhaust system:
Muffler may rattle because the inner shell vibrates and a countermeasure muffler has been released with padding between the parts. (1999)
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 | $810 |
| Alternator | $310 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,235 |
| Brakes | $345 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $475 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $890 |
| Exhaust System | $350 |
| Radiator | $300 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $955 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $265 |
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 |
|
|
|||
| 2005 | |||
| MazdaSpeed Miata | $14,300-15,800 | $13,000-14,400 | $8,900-9,800 |
| Miata | $12,400-13,900 | $11,200-12,500 | $7,100-7,900 |
| 2004 | |||
| Miata | $11,000-13,000 | $9,900-11,700 | $5,900-7,000 |
| 2003 | |||
| Miata | $9,800-11,500 | $8,800-10,400 | $5,100-6,000 |
| 2002 | |||
| Miata | $8,600-10,200 | $7,700-9,200 | $4,500-5,300 |
| 2001 | |||
| Miata | $7,500-8,700 | $6,800-7,800 | $3,800-4,400 |
| 2000 | |||
| Miata | $6,700-7,700 | $5,900-6,800 | $3,100-3,500 |
| 1999 | |||
| Miata | $6,000-7,000 | $5,200-6,100 | $2,500-2,900 |
|
|
|||
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. | 155.7 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 66.0 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 48.3 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2387 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 5.1 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 12.7 | |
| 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
Mazda's dual-overhead-cam, 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine produced 140 horsepower until 2001, when it got a boost to 142--not 155, as early announcements stated. A five-speed manual transmission was standard, with 4-speed automatic optional. A 6-speed manual gearbox could go into the LS edition.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc I4 | 1.8 / 112 | 140-142 | 119-125 | 5-speed manual: 23/28 6-speed manual: 23/28 4-speed automatic: 22/28 |
5-speed manual: 25.8 6-speed manual: -- 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
Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.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 1999-2005 Mazda Miata directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
2001-03:
Fog lights may have been installed improperly, and they may fall down into the bumper, causing it to burn. Dealer will inspect and replace all affected parts.
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
