If you’ve been reluctant to commit to a Mazda Miata because they’re just too darn small, we have some good news for you.
As well as being the first Miata in the United States to include “MX-5” in the name—a designation that had previously been used in other parts of the world—Mazda’s third generation MX-5 Miata (chassis code NC) was given a size boost, meaning bigger drivers could settle into the hot seat of one of the world’s greatest sports cars. Mind you, they’re not as spacious as a Lincoln Continental, but if you’re in the market for an excellent driver’s car with a side of modernity (or a potential CSX spec class entry), this is the place to start.
Read on to learn more about how the NC MX-5 Miata changed during its nine year run.
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Significant Year-by-Year Updates to the NC Miata
2006
For 2006, Mazda completely redesigned the MX-5 Miata from the ground up, and somewhat alongside its flagship sportscar, the RX-8. While the earlier cars are regarded by many as the last hurrah of the analog, traction control-less, drive-by-cable throttle era, the 2006 version brought a slew of modern upgrades and amenities.
Under the hood, the longstanding Mazda B engine was replaced with a new two liter MZR engine, making an advertised 170 horsepower and 140 lb.-ft. of torque (when paired with a manual transmission). Underneath, the front suspension boasted an all-new double wishbone design, but the rear received a totally reworked multilink setup shared with the aforementioned RX-8. Additionally, all NC MX-5s now have antilock brakes…EXCEPT Canadian market 2006 base models.
Mazda switched up the trim levels for the MX-5 Miata this year, with base model cars not receiving any special moniker being sold alongside Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring options, as well as a Club spec.
Here’s where things get a bit tricky: Base, Touring, and Club spec cars all received a 5-speed manual transmission. For the 6-speed, you’ll be tracking down a Sport or Grand Touring model. Additionally, the 6-speed paddle-shift automatic was optional on Touring, Sport, and Grand Touring.
If you’re on the hunt for a Suspension Package car, you’ll enjoy the benefits offered by a sportier spring setup, Bilstein shocks, and limited-slip differential (on manual trans cars only). On top of all this, Mazda’s Dynamic Stability Control system was available as an option on higher-spec models.
2007
Aside from the base model picking up the name “SV”, there are really only a few worthwhile differences to share going into 2007.
Number one: you could now get an LSD without the Suspension package, as it was also part of the Premium Package on manual-equipped cars. More importantly, number two: a Power Retractable Hard Top (PRHT) model became available. While not the first time the Miata could be ordered with a hard top, this was the first (and only) generation with an option to fold its own solid roof. The weight penalty? A modest 78 pounds. PRHT cars remain an excellent option for those who want a reliable top-down cruiser with the practical advantages of a hardtop.
A final note for 2007, Sport model cars were now relegated to the 5-speed manual, leaving the 6-speed to Touring and Grand Touring cars.
2008
Generally, there are no major changes to report for 2008, although there was a new Special Edition released with the usual adornment of special paint and badging.
2009
A few years into the NC MX-5’s run, Mazda released the first facelift—creating what enthusiasts call the “NC2” (as opposed to the earlier “NC1”).
You’ll notice that NC2s are rated at 167 horsepower, a three horsepower reduction, but this is simply due to changing measurement standards: in reality, they’re just as powerful as the earlier NCs. Along with the facelift, Mazda fiddled around with the engine to make it more robust. The MZR engine enjoyed updates like forged crankshafts, forged rods with floating wrist pins, new pistons with stronger pin bosses, stiffened valve springs, and an engine oil cooler.
Manual transmission cars had their redline increased to a screaming 7,200 rpm and received new coatings on the synchros to improve shift quality. Underneath, the cars received some suspension updates and inside, Mazda removed a protrusion in the door pocket for some added space.
2010-2012
For the most part, the MX-5 Miata enjoyed smooth sailing for a couple years, with the most significant changes being option adjustments or colors.
2013
Never content, Mazda engineers made some more adjustments to what enthusiasts call the “NC3″ sub-generation.
Less of an overhaul than the NC2, the 2013 model year brought along another minor facelift, as well as some ECU tweaks on manual-equipped cars to help with accelerator pedal application (now a more linear response). The brake booster also received some minor adjustment.
2013 also saw the standardization of Dynamic Stability Control across the board, along with a reduction in trim levels, now down to Sport, Club, and Grand Touring. The 5-speed manual soldiered on in the Sport trim, with the 6-speed in the Club and Grand Touring. An automatic was optional across the board.
For the first time, the Club model receives the Appearance and Suspension packages as standard (manual transmission only for Suspension pack).
2014-2015
Again, the MX-5 Miata didn’t see any major changes for a few years, until the introduction of the next generation car for 2016.
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Which NC Miata is the Best Choice?
When it comes to tracking down a third-generation MX-5 Miata, you’ll be hard pressed to go wrong with any version you find. Of note, the NC1 version of the car did develop something of a reputation for floppy suspension characteristics, but don’t let that put you off if you come across a great deal on one.
No matter what you plan on doing with your new MX-5 Miata, Summit Racing can help you find the best parts and upgrades to really fine-tune your new ride just the way you want it. If you’re still on the hunt for which Miata is best or want to learn more about the history of this hero from Hiroshima, check out the links below.
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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