The Mazda MX-5 Miata has cemented its place in automotive history as the best-selling two-seat roadster of all time, and for good reason. Inspired by classic British roadsters like the Lotus Elan, MG B, and Triumph Spitfire, Mazda aimed to create a fun, lightweight, and affordable sports car with rear-wheel drive. Across its four distinct generations, the Miata has consistently delivered on this promise, becoming a beloved icon for driving enthusiasts worldwide. Each iteration has brought refinements and improvements, staying true to the original formula of a lightweight chassis, naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, and exhilarating open-top experience. Let’s delve into each of the Miata Generations, tracing the evolution of this remarkable vehicle.
1990-1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata 1st Gen (NA): The Pop-Up Headlight Classic
The journey of the Miata began with the NA generation, launched in 1989 as a 1990 model. This first generation captured the hearts of drivers with its charming pop-up headlights, nimble handling, and pure driving joy. Powered by a 1.6L B-series inline-four engine, the NA Miata produced 116 horsepower, perfectly matched to its lightweight frame. Power was delivered to the rear wheels through a slick five-speed manual gearbox, although a four-speed automatic was also available with a slightly detuned 105 hp engine.
The NA Miata was an instant success, reviving the affordable roadster segment and proving that driving could be fun and engaging without breaking the bank. In 1994, the engine was upgraded to a more potent 1.8L version of the B engine, boosting power to 128 hp for both transmissions, and later to 133 hp in 1996. This generation established the Miata’s core characteristics: balance, responsiveness, and an intimate connection between driver and machine.
First 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 |
1999-2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2nd Gen (NB & NBFL): Refining the Roadster Recipe
The second generation MX-5, known as the NB, arrived in 1998 as a 1999 model, continuing the Miata legacy while introducing significant updates. The most noticeable change was the elimination of the pop-up headlights, replaced with fixed units to improve aerodynamics and pedestrian safety. The NB generation retained the core DNA of the NA but featured a more modern and refined design.
Under the hood, the 1.8L engine was further enhanced with a new cylinder head, increasing output to 140 hp. The five-speed manual and four-speed automatic transmissions carried over, but a six-speed manual gearbox was introduced in the special 10th Anniversary Model and the 2000 Special Edition, offering even closer gear ratios for enthusiastic driving.
In 2001, the NB received a facelift (NBFL), featuring new triple-lens headlights and further engine enhancements, including variable valve timing, which bumped power to 142 hp. The six-speed manual became an option in the LS trim and remained standard in the Special Edition. The NBFL also saw the introduction of the Mazdaspeed MX-5 in 2004, a turbocharged variant producing 178 hp, exclusively paired with a six-speed manual transmission. This marked the first factory-turbocharged Miata, adding a new dimension of performance to the lineup.
Second Generation MX-5 Miata Production Years: 1998-2005
| 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 |
| 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 |
2006-2015 Mazda MX-5 Miata 3rd Gen (NC): Embracing Modernity
The third generation MX-5, known as the NC, represented a significant departure from its predecessors, moving onto a brand-new platform derived from the Mazda RX-8. Launched for the 2006 model year, the NC Miata was slightly larger and more modern than previous generations, offering increased refinement and features while maintaining the core fun-to-drive character.
The NC generation was powered by a 2.0L four-cylinder L Series engine, initially producing 170 hp, later re-rated to 166 hp to meet new SAE standards. Transmission options included a five-speed manual, a six-speed manual, and a six-speed automatic. The NC also introduced a retractable hardtop (PRHT) option, providing the security and weather protection of a coupe with the open-air thrill of a roadster, further enhancing its versatility.
The NC generation underwent two facelifts during its lifespan. The first in 2009 (NC2) brought a refreshed “smile-style” grille and added features, with a slight power bump for manual transmission models. The second facelift in 2013 (NC2 Facelift 2) refined the styling further, keeping the powertrains unchanged. Despite being larger than the NA and NB, the NC Miata still delivered an engaging driving experience, blending classic roadster charm with modern technology and comfort.
Third Generation MX-5 Miata Production Years: 2006-2015
2006-2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata 3rd Gen (NC1)
| 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 |
2009-2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata 3rd Gen (NC2) Facelift
| 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 |
2013-2015 Mazda MX-5 Miata 3rd Gen (NC2) Facelift 2
| 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 |
2016-Present Mazda MX-5 Miata 4th Gen (ND/ND2): Back to Basics, Modern Execution
The fourth and current generation MX-5, the ND, debuted in 2015 as a 2016 model, marking a return to the lightweight and compact philosophy of the original NA. Mazda engineers focused on shedding weight and enhancing agility, resulting in the lightest Miata since the first generation. The ND generation showcases Mazda’s “Kodo – Soul of Motion” design language, featuring striking lines and a more aggressive stance.
Powering the ND Miata is a new direct-injected SkyActiv-G 2.0L engine, producing 155 hp initially. Transmission choices include a slick-shifting six-speed manual and a responsive six-speed automatic. In 2019, the engine was upgraded (ND2) to produce a more exhilarating 181 hp, further enhancing the driving experience. The ND Miata is available as a soft-top roadster and as the MX-5 RF (Retractable Fastback), which features a sleek power-folding hardtop.
The ND generation has been widely praised for its exceptional handling, engaging driving dynamics, and beautiful design. It represents the pinnacle of the Miata evolution, blending modern technology and safety features with the classic roadster spirit that has made the MX-5 a global icon.
Fourth Generation MX-5 Miata Production Years: 2016-Present
| 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 |
The Enduring Legacy of Miata Generations
From its humble beginnings as a revival of the classic roadster, the Mazda MX-5 Miata has become a legend in its own right. Across four generations, it has consistently delivered an unmatched driving experience, emphasizing lightweight agility, balanced handling, and pure driving pleasure. Whether you prefer the pop-up headlights of the NA, the refined style of the NB, the modern features of the NC, or the cutting-edge dynamics of the ND, each generation of the Miata offers a unique and rewarding roadster experience. The Miata’s enduring popularity is a testament to Mazda’s commitment to its original vision: creating a simple, fun, and affordable sports car that connects drivers to the joy of the open road.
