Overview & Reviews

When the Mazda MX-5 Miata debuted for 1990, this snazzy little convertible was an instant hit. Marking a revival of the affordable sports car in a stripped-down roadster format popularized by British automakers in the 1950s and '60s, the MX-5 Miata brought reliability and modern engineering to the concept. Buyers lined up outside Mazda dealerships and gladly paid well over sticker price for the fetching new Miata.

Though the initial mania has long since faded, the Mazda MX-5 Miata continues to be a very popular convertible. Today's third-generation car continues the trend. It still changes direction like a go-kart, communicates the character of the road clearly to the driver and accelerates with an inspiring growl from its inline-4 engine. If you're in the market for an affordable sports car that provides plenty of top-down, open-road thrills, we highly recommend putting a new or used Mazda Miata on your list.

Current Mazda MX-5 Miata
The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a two-seat convertible powered by a 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine good for 167 horsepower. Depending on trim level, you'll find this power routed to the rear wheels through a five- or six-speed manual transmission or an available six-speed automatic. With the automatic, engine output drops to 158 hp.

The Miata is available in three trims: Sport, Club and Grand Touring. The lightly equipped Sport is aimed at enthusiasts on a budget, while the Club trim's added performance upgrades (strut tower brace, high-performance tires) and styling tweaks kick the Miata character up another notch. The Grand Touring is downright luxurious with its automatic climate control, leather upholstery and heated seats.

Customers who like the idea of combining open-air exhilaration with fixed-roof refinement can order a Miata with a power-operated retractable hardtop. The "PRHT" might seem to run counter to the Miata's less-is-more philosophy, but its simple design adds just 70 pounds to the car's curb weight and transforms top-up motoring into a much quieter, more weatherproof experience.

For more than two decades, the Mazda MX-5 Miata has been one of the purest forms of automotive fun, and the latest edition is no different. While we'd probably stick with a lightly equipped version for duty as a weekend toy, the many luxury features and roomier cabin of the latest generation make the Miata a more plausible choice for daily driving duties.

Used Mazda MX-5 Miata Models
The current third-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata dates back to 2006 when it was completely redesigned. A stiffer, more sophisticated chassis, a more powerful engine, a roomier interior and greater interior refinement were key improvements. A change in SAE testing methodology the following year reduced the horsepower rating to 166 from the initial rating of 170, but there is no functional difference. Initially, the lineup consisted of six trim levels: Club Spec, Base, Touring, Sport, Grand Touring and Third-Generation Limited Edition. For 2007, equipment was reshuffled into four trims -- SV, Sport, Touring and Grand Touring -- and the power-retractable hardtop (PRHT) also arrived that year.

A Special Edition model in Icy Blue paint was offered for 2008. That year also saw a 5-hp drop for cars with the automatic transmission. The following year the Miata received a mild refresh with tweaked exterior styling, engine revisions for a bit more power and fuel economy, a more aggressive suspension and some new convenience features. For '10, the PRHT was discontinued in Sport trim, and the value-oriented SV trim (available from 2007-'09) was dropped. Special editions continued to be offered and were essentially loaded Grand Touring PRHT models sporting unique colors and trim.

Right up through 2011, stability control was only available on the Grand Touring and then only as an option. For 2012 that safety technology became standard equipment across the board.

The second-generation MX-5 Miata was in production from 1999-2005. This Miata was the same size as the original MX-5, so while the cockpit was more cramped, the car felt much livelier and more responsive to drive, though its cornering limits were much lower and its ride was much worse. The addition of a glass rear window to the cloth convertible top made visibility better (the old plastic window would become cloudy from sunlight, requiring replacement).

This second-generation Mazda Miata was powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 140 hp and 119 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission was standard and a four-speed automatic was optional. As before, base models were sparsely equipped, but items like leather upholstery and Bose audio were available on upper trims. In its second year, a streamlined model lineup including the Miata and Miata LS with three simplified option packages was introduced, while a Miata Special Edition with a six-speed manual debuted. For 2001, the adoption of variable valve timing bumped output to 142 hp and 125 lb-ft of torque, while the Special Edition's six-speed manual became optional on the Miata LS. For '04 a turbocharged Mazdaspeed model arrived featuring a 178-hp turbocharged engine, high-performance suspension and unique exterior styling enhancements.

The original, first-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata of 1990 offered a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that delivered 116 hp and 100 lb-ft of torque matched with a five-speed manual transmission. Just three colors were initially available: red, white and blue. Detail improvements saw the Miata through its first several years, with revised option packages, more power from a 128-hp 1.8-liter engine introduced for '94, and ultimately even luxuriously appointed M-editions (special paint colors, a tan convertible top, tan leather interior and 15-inch BBS wheels). Competition-minded individuals might want to focus on the Miata R-Package introduced for 1994, which turned the Miata into a race-ready street machine with drivetrain and suspension modifications. The final year for this first-generation model was 1997 (there was no 1998 MX-5 Miata).

User Reviews:

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  My First Roadster - 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By My First Roadster - August 7 - 7:40 pm

  I love this car. This is my first 2 seater convertible (Ive wanted one for a long time). My husband (61") thought it was too small for him to ever drive but the cruise control made it OK. We both ride motorcycles and decided it was as close to riding a motorcycle with no helmet as you can get. Great handling.

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  The best car we have ever had! - 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Sean Wolfington - August 7 - 10:00 am

  The car is a blast! It drives great, the mileage is remarkable and it never has had any problems. Above all it is a blast to drive with the top up and down. But i must say that nothing beats driving around on a sunny day with the top down and the headspeakers playing your favorite music. We love it!

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  Great, Sporty Car - 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By lmo722 - August 2 - 2:00 am

  Thia vehicle is great for anyone who likes the wind in their hair. It is fun to drive, runs great and have good fuel economy. It is relatively cheap compared to the other 2 seater convertables. Only problem would be comfort for a tall or overweight person. But for the small this car is a dream!

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  Well worth it - 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By RADatFBHS - August 1 - 3:33 pm

  I purchased the last brand new 3rd Generation Limited roadster in Georgia. I didnt know how to drive stick, but I learned very quickly. The stick is as smooth as butter. It may have just a four cylinder but dont underestimate it. You feel like youre driving a race car. BEST CAR EVER.

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  More Fun Than My 500SL - 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By RichTampa - August 1 - 12:03 pm

  I like convertibles. Take that back, I LOVE convertibles. My last two where a Caddy Allante and a Mercedes 500 SL, respectively. They were both big, gas guzzling V8 powered "sports cars"... neither one could come close to the providing the day-to-day fun of my new Mazda Miata. I did my research. These cars are bullet-proof; something my high-line roadsters lacked. I am 65" and fit fine inside the car, a tad cramped on longer runs, but fine for under 100 mile trips. Bottom line ... if you are looking for a reliable, safe (dual air bags & aftermarket roll bars), economical and is a blast to drive and be seen in, your search is over. I bought mine 70+k in great shape for under $5k. I LOVE IT.

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  BEST DEAL EVER - 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By MM - July 28 - 11:06 am

  The 97 model year marked the end of the "M1" style Miata which was first introduced in 89 as a 90 model. The 1.8L engine that this year includes provides more than enough thrust. The car shines in the curves. I have yet to drive (and Ive driven a lot) a car that out handles the Miata. As the Miata grows bigger and more powerful, it loses some of its charm that the M1 style had. The 90-93 model with the 1.6L engine and the 94-97 model with the 1.8L engine are far and away the best value and most fun you can have on four wheels. Three features missing on post 97 models are headrest speakers, pop-up head lights and chrome "finger pull" door handles. Drive it and you will never want to get out.

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  Great fun with many aftermarket add-ons. - 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By kentman - July 28 - 10:00 am

  I have had this car for about ten months, and it has been a great investment. With the addition of roll bars, 17 inch wheels, supercharger, and all new audio, this car is amazing. It handles like a champ with a great amount of power. You cannot beat this vehicle in price versus quality and performane. I have yet to have any issues with reliablity. It has not yet seen the inside of the dealership. With many Miata clubs and many aftermarket components, this car has been great fun and entertainment. I would highly recommend over the MR2 and the S2000.

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  Best Car on the Market - 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By OhttaHaveAYatta - July 24 - 11:43 am

  Traded in a Limited 2000 after it was stolen and wrecked. I really like all of the little improvements, things only a previous Miata owner would notice. Same great sport feel without all the gas hog effect. Thanks Mazda for all the little improvements. I was convinced to buy the 2006 over a 2005 for a little more money but sooooo many great new features.

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  Why did I sit out this long? - 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By Kshitish Soman - July 22 - 12:22 pm

  Ive owned several other convertibles from German makers previously and this is my first 2 seat roadster. Ive a whole slew of gripes. One stands out for myself: WHY THE HELL DID I WAIT THIS LONG TO OWN ONE? Three stand out for the price paid for a fully loaded GT. This car absolutely needs (1) a heated steering wheel (2) Exterior heated mirrors (3) Seat memory. But Im okay with living with what I have. Live in Jersey, bought a car at Russell Smith Mazda in Houston sort of on a whim and they offered excellent deal and support. Drove home that weekend with my daughter co-piloting (shes just got her license). It was the best decision and the most fun drive. The new shape is different and people turn around and ask if its a European roadster, only to then be confused by the Mazda sign. Who cares, its an absolute treat to drive. If I could live with all the PAIN of owning german cars, Ill live with whatever headaches this car can throw at me. Ive just changed my religion.

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  fun but tight - 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
  By jeff schwartz - July 22 - 10:00 am

  car drives very well: steering control is terrific, makes tight turns, brakes on a dime. Fast on highway but very noisey. cabin is very tight and uncomfortable on long drives. outer design is beautiful but front end gets beat up alot by hellen keller parkers in the city. No front bumper to stop nicks and scratches by license plate area. All around fun drive for about 1 hour and then discomfort settles in. Car is a death trap in snow, ice and slush. Car easily gets stranded on snowy days.