History of The Miata

The Mazda MX-5 Miata has earned its place as one of the most beloved sports cars in automotive history, embodying Mazda’s philosophy of “Jinba Ittai,” or “horse and rider as one.” This concept emphasizes a seamless connection between driver and machine, delivering an unparalleled fun-to-drive experience since the car’s debut in 1989. Lightweight, agile, and accessible, the Miata has resonated with drivers of all ages and cultures, cementing its legacy across four generations.

The Birth of a Legend: First Generation (NA)

The original MX-5 Miata premiered at the Chicago Auto Show in February 1989 and went on sale in the United States in May of that year as a 1990 model. Weighing just over 2,000 pounds, the NA generation epitomized the spirit of a lightweight sports car, offering nimble handling and open-top excitement. Its instant popularity spurred a renaissance in small, affordable roadsters and encouraged rival automakers to explore the segment.

Evolution Begins: Second Generation (NB)

Unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1997, the second-generation MX-5 (NB) arrived as a 1999 model with more refined styling and improved performance. This generation introduced a range of special editions, including a turbocharged model and a coupe version exclusive to Japan. In 2000, the MX-5 earned a Guinness World Record as the best-selling two-seater convertible sports car, a title it continues to hold.¹

A Step Forward: Third Generation (NC)

Launched at the Geneva International Motor Show in 2005, the third-generation MX-5 (NC) brought a significant evolution to the lineup with the introduction of a 2.0-liter engine. In 2006, Mazda added a retractable hardtop variant, making the joys of open-top driving accessible to a broader audience. This generation balanced performance and practicality, ensuring its continued global appeal.²

Modern Perfection: Fourth Generation (ND)

Revealed in September 2014, the fourth-generation MX-5 (ND) returned to its lightweight roots with a sleeker design and improved handling. Production of the MX-5 reached a remarkable milestone of one million units in 2016, nearly 27 years after the first model rolled off the assembly line.³

In 2017, Mazda unveiled the MX-5 RF (Retractable Fastback), a hardtop model with a bold new design. The RF offered an exhilarating open-air experience with the top down and a sophisticated fastback aesthetic when closed, redefining the concept of a convertible sports car.

A Lasting Legacy

With over three decades of success, the Mazda MX-5 Miata continues to capture the hearts of driving enthusiasts worldwide. Its commitment to delivering pure driving joy, combined with its timeless design and innovative engineering, ensures its legacy as a true icon of the automotive world. Whether in soft-top or RF form, the MX-5 brings the thrill of open-top driving to generations of fans, fulfilling Mazda’s mission of creating fun-filled lives through its vehicles.

¹Mazda USA, “Mazda MX-5 Miata Fans,” https://www.mazdausa.com/discover/mazda-mx-5-miata-fans

²Car and Driver, “A Brief History of the Mazda Miata,” https://www.caranddriver.com/features/g26111823/mazda-mx-5-miata-history

³Mazda USA, “Mazda MX-5 Miata Fans,” https://www.mazdausa.com/discover/mazda-mx-5-miata-fans