Review: Mazda NA.I MX-5 (1989-93)

Overview

Released in October 1989, the Mazda NA Series I (NA.I) MX-5 was a two-seat convertible with a soft-top roof, though a detachable plastic hardtop was available as an option. Manufactured in Hiroshima, Japan, the rear-wheel drive NA.I MX-5 was powered by a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that was mated to a five-speed manual transmission.

B6ZE(RS) engine

The NA.I MX-5 was powered by a specially developed 1.6-litre B6ZE(RS) non-interference petrol engine which had a cast iron block, an alloy cylinder head, double overhead camshafts (belt-driven), four valves per cylinder, a compression ratio of 9.4:1. Special features of this engine included its aluminium sump with cooling fins and lightweight crankshaft and flywheel which contributed to a 7200 rpm redline.

Dimensions and suspension

The MX-5 was 3975 mm long, 1675 mm wide, 1230 mm tall and had a 2265 mm long wheelbase; kerb weight was 955 kg, while the drag coefficient was 0.38 Cd. Furthermore, the NA MX-5 had independent, double wishbone suspension front and rear with coil springs and anti-roll bars.

Safety equipment

The Mazda NA MX-5 was not fitted with safety equipment such as airbags or ABS.

Features

Standard features for the Mazda NA.I MX-5 included 14-inch alloy wheels, a four speaker sound system with a radio and cassette player, leather-wrapped steering wheel and power windows.

In December 1991, standard features were extended to include a remote boot release, a heated rear window and an overhead reading light.

From January 1993, power-assisted steering was fitted as standard.

MX-5 Neo Green, Malibu Gold and Classic Red editions

In October 1990, three hundred ‘Neo Green’ MX-5s were released which featured a CD player and tan leather trim; visually, these models could also be identified by their ‘Neo Green’ paint finishes.

From November 1991, fifty-five ‘Malibu Gold’ MX-5s were released; these models were distinguished by their standard CD player, headrest speakers and ‘Malibu Gold’ paint finish.

In May 1993, one hundred ‘Classic Red’ editions were released; these models were distinguished by their BBS alloy wheels, CD player, headrest speakers, leather trim and ‘Classic Red’ paint finish.

Review: Mazda NA.II MX-5 (1993-97)

Overview

Released in November 1993, the Mazda NA Series II (NA.II) MX-5 introduced a new 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine and the availability of four-speed automatic transmissions. Furthermore, the MX-5 chassis underwent substantial bracing for improved side impact protection with braces fitted between the seatbelt towers and the front and rear subframes.

The 1.8-litre BP-ZE engine differed from the previous 1.6-litre B6ZE(RS) unit in that it had a new block (83 mm bore, 85 mm stroke) with widened cylinder spacing, a forged crankshaft, compression ratio of 9.0:1 and a 7000 rpm redline.

Visually, the NA.II MX-5 could be identified by its new alloy wheel designs, though there were no changes to its body. Inside, there was new cabin trim and door pockets. The MX-5 range was also expanded with the introduction of Clubman variants that were fitted with sports suspension and a limited-slip rear differential.

Safety equipment and features

Compared to its NA.I predecessor, standard safety equipment and features for the NA.II MX-5 were unchanged.

January 1996: MX-5 update

In January 1996, the MX-5 was updated with new door armrests, anti-submarining seats and an upgraded sound system; the Clubman variants were also fitted with a limited-slip Torsen differential.

MX-5 Neo Green

In January 1996 and 1997, ‘Neo Green’ limited edition models were released; these models featured CD players, leather trim and ‘Neo Green’ paint finishes.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Mazda NA MX-5

Recalls: Mazda NA MX-5

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Mazda NA MX-5

No recall information is available for the Mazda NA MX-5. To search for recalls of Mazda models, please visit Product Safety Recalls Australia: Mazda.

Problems and faults: Mazda NA MX-5

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Problems and faults: Mazda NA MX-5

• Failed spark plugs are indicated by misfires – these are a routine replacement item.
• The MX-5’s cam belts must be replaced as scheduled.
• Oil leaks and noise from the lifters may indicate insufficient oil changes.
• For severe oil leaks, the crankshaft pulley may need to be removed.
• Worn synchros are most apparent when shifting into second gear.
• Worn or leaking clutch hydraulics may lead to premature clutch and gearbox wear.
• Dampers are a routine replacement item.

Released in October 1989, the Mazda NA Series I (NA.I) MX-5 was a two-seat convertible with a soft-top roof, though a detachable plastic hardtop was available as an option. Manufactured in Hiroshima, Japan, the rear-wheel drive NA.I MX-5 was powered by a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that was mated to a five-speed manual transmission… Read full Mazda NA MX-5 review

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