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 MG B and Triumph Spitfire, Mazda set out to create a fun, lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car that captured the spirit of those beloved classics, but with modern reliability and Japanese engineering. Across four distinct generations, the Miata has consistently delivered on this promise, remaining true to its original design philosophy: lightweight, rear-wheel drive, and powered by naturally aspirated four-cylinder engines. From its debut in the late 1980s as the NA generation, the Miata has evolved while retaining its core DNA, offering open-top thrills and engaging driving dynamics that have captivated enthusiasts worldwide. Let’s delve into each of the Miata Generations, exploring their unique characteristics and contributions to the model’s enduring legacy.
2016-Present: Fourth Generation Mazda MX-5 Miata (ND/ND2)
The fourth generation Miata, known as the ND, arrived leaner and more agile than ever before. Mazda doubled down on the lightweight philosophy, making the ND smaller and significantly lighter than its predecessor. Under the hood, a brand-new direct-injected SkyActiv-G 2.0-liter engine debuted, producing 155 horsepower and paired with either a slick-shifting six-speed manual or a refined six-speed automatic transmission. For the 2019 model year, Mazda further enhanced the driving experience by boosting the 2.0-liter engine’s output to a more spirited 181 horsepower, making the ND even more engaging and fun to drive.
| 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: Third Generation Mazda MX-5 Miata (NC2) Facelift 2
The NC generation of the Miata received its second facelift in 2013, designated as the NC2 Facelift 2. While the powertrains remained the same as the previous NC models, this refresh brought subtle styling tweaks and interior refinements to keep the NC generation fresh until the arrival of the all-new ND.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Manual, 6-Speed Automatic, 6-Speed Manual | Rear-Wheel Drive |
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: Third Generation Mazda MX-5 Miata (NC2) Facelift
For the 2009 to 2012 model years, the NC Miata underwent its first significant facelift. This refresh included a redesigned front fascia, often described as a “smile-style” grille, and an expanded list of available features. Notably, the 2.0-liter engine in manual transmission models received a slight power bump, gaining a single horsepower, though the overall driving character remained consistent.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Manual, 6-Speed Automatic, 6-Speed Manual | Rear-Wheel Drive |
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: Third Generation Mazda MX-5 Miata (NC1)
The third generation MX-5, known as the NC, represented a significant departure from its predecessors. For the 2006 model year, Mazda moved the Miata onto a brand-new platform derived from the RX-8 sports car. This new architecture brought with it increased size and a more substantial feel compared to the NA and NB generations. The NC debuted with a 170-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder L-Series engine, initially rated at 170 hp, later adjusted to 166 hp to align with new SAE measurement standards. Transmission choices included a five-speed manual, a six-speed manual, and a newly introduced six-speed automatic.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 2.0L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Manual, 6-Speed Automatic, 6-Speed Manual | Rear-Wheel Drive |
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: Second Generation Mazda MX-5 Miata (NBFL) Facelift
The second generation Miata, the NB, received a notable facelift in 2001, often referred to as the NBFL. This refresh brought new triple-lens headlights, a revised front fascia, and further engine enhancements. Power from the 1.8-liter engine was increased to 142 horsepower thanks to the introduction of variable valve timing. The six-speed manual transmission, previously exclusive to the Special Edition, became an option for the LS trim level, further enhancing the sporty appeal of the NB Miata. For the 2004 model year, Mazda introduced the Mazdaspeed MX-5, a turbocharged variant of the 1.8-liter engine producing a robust 178 horsepower, exclusively paired with a six-speed manual transmission. This limited-production model, with only 5,428 units made for the US market over two years, marked the first factory-turbocharged 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: Second Generation Mazda MX-5 Miata (NB)
The second generation Miata, the NB, launched in 1998 as a 1999 model year vehicle, representing a comprehensive update and reskin of the original NA. While based on the same fundamental platform, the NB lost the iconic pop-up headlights in favor of fixed units, giving it a more modern appearance. The 1.8-liter engine was retained but received a new cylinder head, boosting output to 140 horsepower. The five-speed manual and four-speed automatic transmissions carried over, but a special 10th Anniversary Model Miata and the 2000 Special Edition both featured a six-speed manual gearbox, highlighting Mazda’s commitment to driver engagement. Notably, there was no 1998 model year Miata as Mazda transitioned directly to the NB generation.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Manual, 4-Speed Automatic, 6-Speed Manual | Rear-Wheel Drive |
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: First Generation Mazda MX-5 Miata (NA)
The original MX-5 Miata, the NA, debuted in 1989 as a 1990 model, instantly capturing the hearts of driving enthusiasts. It featured a 1.6-liter version of Mazda’s robust iron-block B-series inline four-cylinder engine, equipped with double belt-driven overhead camshafts and 16 valves. This engine produced 116 horsepower, delivered to the rear wheels through a crisp-shifting five-speed manual gearbox. A four-speed automatic transmission was also available, 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 version of the B engine, increasing power to 128 horsepower for both transmission options. Power was further bumped to 133 horsepower for the 1996 model year, refining the NA Miata throughout its production run.
| Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|
| 1.6L Inline-4 Gas | 5-Speed Manual | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| 1.8L Inline-4 Gas | 4-Speed Automatic |
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 |
