The Car
The Evolution of the Mazda Miata/MX‑5
Mazda didn’t invent the roadster — it perfected it. The Mazda Miata/MX-5 personifies the philosophy of “Jinba Ittai” – literally, the harmony between horse and rider – to make the car feel like a natural extension of the driver’s body.
From day one, the Miata/MX‑5 has delivered pure driving joy in a lightweight, reliable, and affordable package. That winning formula has made it the best‑selling roadster in history.
Let’s Explore how each Generation has Carried the Torch
There have been four generations of Miata/MX-5 with a fifth in the works. We recognize the marque’s origin as well as its evolution in what follows.
NA — 1989 to 1997 — A Legend Is Born
Introduced in 1989, the first‑generation revived the classic roadster spirit with its pop‑up headlights, oval grille, and unmistakable Lotus‑inspired proportions. Early cars came in red, white, and blue, with silver added shortly after. A black soft top was standard, and an optional fiberglass hardtop completed the look.
Highlights:
- Ultra‑lightweight chassis with perfect 50:50 weight distribution
- Battery mounted in the trunk to achieve this balance
- Early years: 1.6‑litre engine with 5‑speed manual, automatic available.
- Later years: 1.8‑litre engine, available 6‑speed
The NA reintroduced the world to simple, joyful motoring — and became an instant icon.
NB — 1999 to 2005 — The Legend Refined
The NB modernized the Miata/MX-5 while preserving the essence of its origins. Pop‑up headlights gave way to fixed units, the door handles were redesigned, and a glass rear window replaced the NA’s plastic one. The 1.8‑litre engine returned with more refinement and additional power.
A standout moment came in 2004 with the Mazdaspeed, featuring:
- Turbocharged engine
- Racing wheels
- Performance tires
- Upgraded brakes
The NB sharpened the Miata/MX-5’s performance and broadened its appeal.
NC — 2006 to 2015 — The Legend Grows Up
The NC marked a significant evolution. It became the first Miata/MX-5 in North America to wear MX‑5 badging and grew in size, comfort, and capability. Power increased to a 2.0‑litre engine, and the powerplant’s lighter weight allowed the battery to be repositioned from the trunk.
Initially met with mixed reviews, the NC has since earned an enduring reputation — especially among racers. Its robust chassis, and components incorporating RX‑7/RX‑8 engineering, made it exceptional agile and helped solidify the Miata/MX‑5 as the most raced sports car in the world.
Notable features:
- NC1 (2006–2009): Oval grille
- NC2 (2010–2012): Strong engine and suspension components and wider, more expressive “smile” grille
- NC3(2013–2015): Minor style changes to grille and front fascia
- Power Retractable Hard Top (PRHT):
- Introduced in 2007
- Hard roof folds away at the push of a button
- Takes no more trunk space than the soft top
The NC expanded the Miata/MX-5’s versatility without losing its soul.
ND — 2016 to Present — The Legend Returns to Its Roots
Shorter than the NA and nearly as light, the ND was a deliberate return to the Miata/MX-5’s original philosophy. With its lightweight construction and higher‑output 2.0‑litre engine, it became the quickest yet — even surpassing the Mazdaspeed.
Design highlights:
- Muscular, modern exterior
- Sculpted, driver‑focused interior
- Unmistakably Miata/MX‑5 character
Notable features:
- ND1 (2016–2018). In 2017, introduction of RF (Retractable Fastback):
- Roof panel lifts and retracts behind the seats
- Rear buttresses articulate to allow the mechanism to operate
- Creates a targa‑style open‑air experience with a quieter cabin
- NC2 (2019–present): Increase in power, refined suspension
The ND blends modern engineering with classic Miata/MX-5 purity.
NE — The Future Awaits
Mazda is developing the next‑generation NE. While details remain secret, expectations are high that Mazda will stay true to the winning formula: lightweight design, balanced handling, and the joy of open‑air driving. How that philosophy will evolve in the NE remains to be seen.
