Mazda MX-5 (517)
2023 Mazda Mx-5 Miata Grand Touring
1997 Mazda Mx-5 Miata
2021 Mazda Mx-5 Miata Grand Touring
2010 Mazda Mx-5 Miata
2010 Mazda Mx-5 Miata Grand Touring
2013 Mazda Mx-5 Miata Club
1994 Mazda Mx-5 Miata
2008 Mazda Mx-5 Miata
2001 Mazda Mx-5 Miata Base
2009 Mazda Mx-5 Miata
2016 Mazda Mx-5 Miata Grand Touring
2008 Mazda Mx-5 Miata
2008 Mazda Mx-5 Miata
2012 Mazda Mx-5 Miata
2023 Mazda Mx-5 Miata Grand Touring
2023 Mazda Mx-5 Miata Grand Touring
2014 Mazda Mx-5 Miata Grand Touring
The Mazda MX-5, also known as the Miata in North America and the Eunos Roadster in Japan, is an iconic sports car that first hit the market in 1989. The model has won the hearts of car enthusiasts around the world due to its light weight, excellent handling, and affordable price.
Over the course of more than three decades, the Mazda MX-5 has gone through several generations and modifications, while retaining its main features - compact dimensions, rear-wheel drive and a soft top. In this article, we will look at the history of the model, its main modifications, color schemes, years of production, the number of cars sold, as well as the most successful and problematic versions.
History of the model
Mazda MX-5 generations
Currently, Mazda MX-5 has four generations:
- NA (1989-1997) : The first generation, featuring recognizable pop-up headlights and classic styling. The car was equipped with a 1.6-liter and later a 1.8-liter engine.
- NB (1998-2005) : The second generation received updated styling with fixed headlights and more powerful engines, including a 1.8-liter turbo engine in the special Mazdaspeed version.
- NC (2006-2015) : The third generation was larger and more powerful, offered with 2.0-liter and 2.5-liter engines. This generation also saw the introduction of a PRHT (retractable hardtop) version.
- ND (2016-present) : The fourth generation returned to a more compact size and lightness. The car is equipped with 1.5-liter and 2.0-liter SkyActiv engines. In 2019, an updated version with increased power was released.
Modifications and colors
Modifications
Among the numerous modifications of the Mazda MX-5, several key ones can be distinguished:
- Mazda MX-5 Miata Club : Sports version with improved suspension, brakes and aerodynamic elements.
- Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring : A more luxurious version with leather seats, an upgraded audio system and additional comfort options.
- Mazda MX-5 RF : Retractable Fastback version, offering a combination of open and closed body styles.
Colors
Throughout all generations, the Mazda MX-5 has been offered in a variety of colors, the most popular of which are:
- Red (Soul Red, Classic Red)
- White (Arctic White, Crystal White Pearl)
- Blue (Eternal Blue, Deep Crystal Blue)
- Black (Jet Black, Brilliant Black)
- Silver (Silver Stone, Sonic Silver)
Years of production and number of cars sold
Since its debut in 1989, the Mazda MX-5 has produced more than a million units. In 2000, it was listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the best-selling two-seater sports car in the world. By 2024, the number of MX-5s sold exceeded 1.1 million units.
The most successful and problematic versions
Most successful: Among the most successful versions are the first and fourth generation models. The first version (NA) became an icon due to its simplicity and driving pleasure. The fourth generation (ND) revived interest in the model due to its modern design and improved performance.
Problematic versions: The most problematic version is considered to be the NC (third generation), which was criticized for the increase in weight and the loss of some of the sporty spirit. Also, some owners encountered problems with the reliability of the hardtop (PRHT) and electrics.
The Mazda MX-5 continues to set the benchmark for lightweight sports cars, offering an unrivalled combination of style, performance and driving pleasure. The story of this model is one of success, supported by thousands of satisfied owners around the world.
Results and Conclusion
Over the years of production, starting in 1989, the MX-5 has gone through several generations, each of which brought something new and improved. Numerous modifications allowed this model to remain relevant and in demand, and a variety of color solutions added individuality to each car.
Key Achievements and Challenges
Sales and Successes:
- Global sales have exceeded one million units, making the MX-5 one of the best-selling roadsters.
- Numerous awards and recognition in the automotive press have confirmed the success of this model throughout all generations.
Problematic Points:
- Some owners noted corrosion issues on early models, requiring additional care and maintenance.
- At certain times, production problems and market challenges could lead to a temporary decline in sales, but the overall position of the model remained consistently successful.
The Mazda MX-5 remains an icon of the automotive world, continuing to delight its owners with its unique combination of sporty spirit and everyday practicality. Its history demonstrates how constant pursuit of excellence and attention to customer needs can create a car that remains beloved for decades.
Looking forward, we can expect Mazda to continue to evolve the MX-5, introducing new technologies and improving existing solutions to meet the demands of new generations of drivers and keep this legendary car at the forefront.