Thinking about picking up an early example of one of the world’s most famous sports cars? You’re in the right place.
The Mazda Miata (AKA, the MX-5 or Eunos Roadster in other parts of the world) is a convertible sports car that was introduced for the 1990 model year. Still in production today, the Miata currently spans four distinct generations, commonly referred to by Mazda enthusiasts using the unique chassis codes: NA, NB, NC, and ND.
The first generation Miatas comprise, obviously, the NA series. In addition to being prized for their early provenance, the NA Miata is a popular choice for the autocross and performance crowds thanks to the model’s price, availability, and upgradability.
If you’re in the market for one of these ever-popular drop-tops, we’ve put together this handy buyer’s guide to help you identify which specific NA Miata model year is going to best suit your needs. Keep reading and you’ll see highlights of the major year-to-year changes that Mazda made to the first-gen. NA Miata.
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Significant Year-by-Year Updates to the NA Miata
1990
Starting production in 1989 (for the 1990 model year), the original Miata, often referred to by its “NA” chassis code, is instantly recognizable by its pop-up headlights and undeniable charm.
The earliest NA models came equipped with a 1.6L Mazda B engine making a reasonable 115 horsepower attached to a five-speed manual transmission.
A, B, and C Packages? It’s also worth mentioning that, early in the NA generation, Mazda offered various options packages that could be added to a base Miata. For instance, the “A” Package got you amenities like power steering and alloy wheels, the “B” Package typically had features like power windows and cruise control, and “C” was often a combination of A and B.
About midway through the NA generation, Mazda changed how it handled the options sheet, and the A/B/C packages disappeared. There was also a coveted “R” Package, which we’ll talk about in a moment.
1991
In 1991, Mazda revised the crank snout to address issues related to improper timing belt servicing. A viscous limited-slip differential, or LSD, was available as an option.
1991 also brought along the introduction of an optional four-speed automatic transmission (sans LSD), as well as antilock brakes with the B package.
1992
The following year, Mazda added a rear suspension reinforcement brace to the Miata. 1992 was also the only year you could get your hands on a Sunburst Yellow car, if you’re into standing out against the waves of whites and grays on the roads.
1993
For 1993, not much was changed. However, if you’re an audiophile, you can try to track down a Miata with the Mazda Sensory Sound System—but we can’t promise it’ll hold up over 30 years later. Alternatively, you could just enjoy the sounds of the engine through a performance Miata exhaust system.
1994
1994 introduced the world to the 1.8L engine. These cars are referred to as NA8, where the earlier 1.6L cars are called NA6. More than just a simple bore/stroke job, the revised engine pushed output up to 130 hp.
1994 also brought some additional chassis stiffening, bigger brakes, and a revised final drive ratio (now 4.30:1). This was also the first year for a Torsen limited slip on LSD cars, replacing the viscous-type diff in earlier cars.
Most importantly, this year saw the introduction of a factory-based performance options group: the “R” Package. It came with bigger alloy wheels, sportier tires, Bilstein shocks, re-tuned springs, and some aero bits. The R Package would be available through 1997.
1995
In 1995, Mazda mainly switched up how the various option packages were set up. Gone were the A, B, or C packages, replaced with a simple Popular Equipment Package and a Leather Package on top of that.
1996
OBD-II compliance came in 1996 for the little Mazda. Power crept up to 133 hp.
1997
1997 was the last year for the first-gen. NA Miata. Option packages were again shaken up, with various equipment moved into new bundles.
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Which NA Miata is the Best Choice?
If you’re looking for the best performing NA Miata from the factory, it’s probably wise to track down an R Package car (again, available as an option from 1994-97).
But the beauty of the Mazda Miata lies in its ability to be upgraded and personalized to its owner’s preference—whether that’s for top-down boulevard cruising or racing wheel-to-wheel with any of the thousands of Spec Miata racers across the world.
If you’ve decided to take the plunge on an NA Miata and want to start tinkering, you’ll be glad to know there’s a massive amount of aftermarket support for the MX-5 Miata that can help you do it.
Click here to see Miata upgrade & restoration parts at Summit Racing.
More Mazda MX-5 Miata Resources
We’ve got more generation-specific Miata buyer’s guides too, as well as a short history of Mazda’s beloved sports car. Check ’em out:
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