Over four remarkable generations, the Mazda MX-5 Miata has cemented its place in automotive history as the best-selling two-seat roadster ever produced. Conceived as a modern interpretation of classic lightweight British sports cars like the MG B and Triumph Spitfire, the Miata has remained true to its original design ethos throughout its evolution. Each generation of Miata has consistently delivered a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive driving experience powered by naturally aspirated four-cylinder engines. The original NA Miata debuted at the end of the 1980s, boasting timeless styling and a soft-top convertible roof – characteristics that Mazda has meticulously refined over the years. Subsequent generations introduced innovations like fixed and retractable hardtops, enhancing versatility and all-weather usability. While not the quickest roadster on the market, the MX-5 prioritizes driving enjoyment, offering balanced rear-wheel-drive handling, and exceptional affordability, making it a standout in today’s shrinking roadster segment. Even the earliest Miata generations are highly sought after by enthusiasts, a testament to Mazda’s enduring commitment to driving purity.
2016-Present Mazda MX-5 Miata 4th Gen (ND/ND2)
The fourth generation Miata marked a significant step forward, with Mazda focusing on making the ND generation even smaller and lighter than its predecessors. This generation debuted with a new direct-injected SkyActive-G 2.0-liter engine producing 155 horsepower, paired with either a slick-shifting six-speed manual or a refined six-speed automatic transmission. For the 2019 model year (ND2), Mazda further enhanced the driving experience by upgrading the engine to deliver a more spirited 181 horsepower, making it even more responsive and engaging.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| 6-Speed Manual |
Fourth Generation MX-5 Miata Production Years:
2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata Review
2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata Review
2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata Review
2021 Mazda MX-5 Miata Review
2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata Review
2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata Review
2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata Review
2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata Review
2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata Review
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| ND/ND2 Sport | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic 6-Speed Manual | RWD |
| ND/ND2 Club | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic 6-Speed Manual | RWD |
| ND/ND2 Grand Touring | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic 6-Speed Manual | RWD |
| ND/ND2 100th Anniversary | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic 6-Speed Manual | RWD |
| ND/ND2 30th Anniversary | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic 6-Speed Manual | RWD |
2013-2015 Mazda MX-5 Miata 3rd Gen (NC2) Facelift 2
The third generation NC Miata received its second facelift for the 2013 model year, known as NC2. While maintaining the powertrain options from the previous facelift, this refresh brought subtle styling updates to keep the NC generation fresh and appealing in its final years.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Manual | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| 6-Speed Automatic | ||
| 6-Speed Manual |
Third Generation MX-5 Miata Production Years:
2015 Mazda MX-5 Miata Review
2014 Mazda MX-5 Miata Review
2013 Mazda MX-5 Miata Review
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| NC2 Sport | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Manual 6-Speed Automatic | RWD |
| NC2 Club | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic 6-Speed Manual | RWD |
| NC2 Grand Touring | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic 6-Speed Manual | RWD |
| NC2 Club Hardtop | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic 6-Speed Manual | RWD |
| NC2 Grand Touring Hardtop | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic 6-Speed Manual | RWD |
| NC2 25th Anniversary Edition | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic 6-Speed Manual | RWD |
2009-2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata 3rd Gen (NC2) Facelift
For the 2009 to 2012 model years, the NC Mazda MX-5 underwent its first facelift, referred to as NC2. This refresh introduced a distinctive “smile-style” grille and an expanded list of available features. Interestingly, models equipped with the manual transmission received a slight power bump, gaining a single horsepower, although this was more of a refinement than a significant performance enhancement.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Manual | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| 6-Speed Automatic | ||
| 6-Speed Manual |
Third Generation MX-5 Miata Production Years:
2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata Review
2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata Review
2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata Review
2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata Review
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| NC2 SV | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Manual | RWD |
| NC2 Sport | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Manual 6-Speed Automatic | RWD |
| NC2 Touring | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic 6-Speed Manual | RWD |
| NC2 Grand Touring | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic 6-Speed Manual | RWD |
| NC2 Touring Hardtop | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic 6-Speed Manual | RWD |
| NC2 Grand Touring Hardtop | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic 6-Speed Manual | RWD |
| NC2 Special Edition | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic 6-Speed Manual | RWD |
2006-2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata 3rd Gen (NC1)
The introduction of the third generation NC Miata in 2006 brought about significant changes to the MX-5 formula. Mazda developed an entirely new platform, derived from the chassis of the rotary-powered RX-8 sports car, for this generation. Power came from a 170-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder L-series engine, initially paired with either a five- or six-speed manual transmission. Shortly after its launch, the engine’s horsepower rating was adjusted to 166 hp to align with new SAE measurement standards. A six-speed automatic transmission variant, producing 158 horsepower, was also added to the lineup, broadening the NC’s appeal.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Manual | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| 6-Speed Automatic | ||
| 6-Speed Manual |
Third Generation MX-5 Miata Production Years:
2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata Review
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| NC1 SV | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Manual | RWD |
| NC1 Sport | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Manual 6-Speed Automatic | RWD |
| NC1 Touring | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic 6-Speed Manual | RWD |
| NC1 Grand Touring | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic 6-Speed Manual | RWD |
| NC1 Special Edition | 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Automatic 6-Speed Manual | RWD |
2001-2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2nd Gen (NBFL) Facelift
In 2001, the second generation NB Miata received a subtle but effective facelift, designated NBFL. The most noticeable change was the introduction of new triple-lens headlights, giving the NB a more modern appearance. Performance was also enhanced, with power increased to 142 horsepower thanks to the addition of variable valve timing to the 1.8-liter engine. The six-speed manual transmission, previously exclusive to the Special Edition, became an option for the LS trim level. For the 2004 model year, Mazda introduced the Mazdaspeed MX-5, a turbocharged variant boasting 178 horsepower from its 1.8L B engine, exclusively paired with a six-speed manual. This high-performance model was produced in limited numbers, with only 5,428 units made for the US market across the 2004 and 2005 model years, making it a highly collectible version of the NB Miata.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Manual | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| 1.8L Inline-4 Gas Turbo | 6-Speed Automatic | |
| 6-Speed Manual |
Second Generation MX-5 Miata Facelift Production Years: 2001-2005
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| NBFL Convertible | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Manual 4-Speed Automatic | RWD |
| NBFL LS | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Manual 6-Speed Manual 4-Speed Automatic | RWD |
| NBFL Special Edition | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Manual | RWD |
| NBFL Mazdaspeed MX-5 | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas Turbo | 6-Speed Manual | RWD |
1999-2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2nd Gen (NB)
The second generation NB Miata, launched in 1998 as a 1999 model (skipping the 1998 model year designation), represented a comprehensive update and restyling of the original NA. While retaining the fundamental underpinnings, the NB notably did away with the iconic pop-up headlights in favor of fixed units. The 1.8-liter engine was carried over but received a new cylinder head, boosting output to 140 horsepower. The familiar five-speed manual and four-speed automatic transmissions remained available. A special 10th Anniversary Model Miata was introduced with a six-speed manual gearbox, which also found its way into the regular 2000 Special Edition model, highlighting the growing enthusiast demand for a more engaging driving experience.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Manual | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| 4-Speed Automatic | ||
| 6-Speed Manual |
Second Generation MX-5 Miata Production Years: 1998-2000
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| NB Convertible | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Manual 4-Speed Automatic | RWD |
| NB 10th Anniversary | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Manual | RWD |
| NB Special Edition | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Manual | RWD |
| NB LS | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 4-Speed Automatic 5-Speed Manual | RWD |
| NB Special Edition | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 6-Speed Manual | RWD |
1990-1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata 1st Gen (NA)
The first-generation NA Mazda MX-5 Miata revolutionized the roadster segment when it debuted in 1989 as a 1990 model. It captured the essence of classic British roadsters, featuring a 1.6-liter version of Mazda’s robust iron-block B-series inline four-cylinder engine. This engine, equipped with double belt-driven overhead cams and 16 valves, produced 116 horsepower and powered the rear wheels through a standard five-speed manual gearbox. A four-speed automatic transmission was also offered, albeit paired with a slightly detuned version of the engine producing 105 horsepower. In 1994, the 1.6-liter engine was replaced by a larger 1.8-liter B engine, increasing power to 128 horsepower for both transmission options. Further refinements in 1996 boosted the 1.8-liter engine’s output to 133 horsepower, demonstrating Mazda’s commitment to continuous improvement even within a single generation.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 1.6L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Manual | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 4-Speed Automatic |
Third Generation MX-5 Miata Production Years: 1990-1997
| TRIM | ENGINE | TRANSMISSION | DRIVETRAIN |
|---|---|---|---|
| NA Convertible | 1.6L Inline-4 Gas 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Manual 4-speed Automatic | RWD |
| NA Special | 1.6L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Manual 4-speed Automatic | RWD |
| NA Brilliant Black | 1.6L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Manual | RWD |
| NA Limited Edition | 1.6L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Manual 4-speed Automatic | RWD |
| NA M Edition | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Manual 4-speed Automatic | RWD |
| NA STO Edition | 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Manual 4-Speed Automatic | RWD |
