Top 10 Best Mazda MX-5 Miata Models of All Time
It’s a bit hard to believe that 26 years ago, no one really knew what a Mazda Miata was.
With its immense success over the past two and a half decades, it’s hard to remember a world PM (pre-Miata). With lightweight, lightning reflexes and a fun factor that can’t be measured in this or most worlds, the Mazda MX-5 Miata redefined what an affordable sports car should be.
Lasting over 30 years a low volume sports car is no small feat. To keep the thrill alive, many great Miatas have rolled out of the factory during its history. Some you may be fond of, but others you might not have even realized were ever built. Here is our list of the top 10 best Mazda MX-5 Miata models of all time. This was a hard one to put together, so feel free to share your favorite MX-5 model variants with us in the comments below.
10. 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata PRHT
In 2007 the third generation MX-5 Miata received a new feature not offered on any previous version of the car. A three-piece, power folding retractable hard top convertible roof could now be ordered from the factory. Although it did add weight to the car, it also added a new level of all-weather capability and practicality that couldn’t be matched by the older car’s one piece removable hardtop that required two people to remove and couldn’t be brought along for a drive.
9. 2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF
In 2017 a new Miata joined the fray. Called the RF, it is a hardtop convertible, but unlike the one sold during the previous generation. The RF incorporates a fixed dual buttress and retractable center roof portion. With the roof down, it's more targa than full convertible. Regardless of whether it is a full convertible or not, it has a striking profile unlike any other Miata ever made.
8. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
In 1998, the second generation MX-5 Miata burst onto the scene as a 1999 model. Gone were the pop-up headlights, replaced by more modern looking fixed lights. The 1.8-liter engine remained, but power was up once again to now total 140 HP.
7. 2013 Mazda MX-5 Miata Club
Although the end of the third generation MX-5 Miata was near, that didn’t stop Mazda from given it a bit more performance. Called the Club, the new MX-5 trim included all sorts of good go-fast bits like Bilstein dampers, a limited-slip differential and larger front and rear splitters. As well, some of the interior trim was body colored and MX-5 decals ran down the side of the car.
6. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
In 2001, the second generation Mazda MX-5 Miata received a mid-cycle refresh that gave the car a more aggressive appearance. Many consider this sub-generation the best looking Miata of all time. Available in the 2001 model was a six-speed manual transmission and limited-slip differential.
Power was once again up for the 1.8-liter engine, now making 143 HP total for North America. Unfortunately, Mazda quoted the overseas power output of 155 HP initially which lead to a lot of apologies and an offer to buy the car back off of customers.
5. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata 10th Anniversary Edition
Anniversary editions for a lot of cars are little more than a few graphics and new badges. The 10th anniversary MX-5 Miata was a lot more than that. In 1999, it was the only way to get the six-speed manual transmission instead of the regular five-speed. The car also came with other unique features like Bilstein shocks and two tone seats with Alcantara inserts.
4. 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata R Package
In 1994 the MX-5 Miata received its first substantial upgrade. The 1.6-liter engine was replaced a larger 1.8-liter engine that upped power by 15 HP to a total of 131 HP. Weighing nearly the same as the original 1990 Miata, the 1994 model was significantly faster.
To complement the new power plant, the R Package was available that include Bilstein shocks, under-body aerodynamics and the removal of the power steering system.
3. 1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata
We’d be re-missed to not include the car that started it all on this list. In 1990 the Mazda MX-5 Miata burst on the scene as a two seat roadster weighing just over 2,000 lbs. Even if the small 1.6-liter engine only made 116 HP, the car’s chassis was designed to exploit every last pony.
Responsive and properly balanced, a novice driver could easily drive the MX-5 near its limit. With weight so low, the suspension didn’t have to be overly stiff either which had a side benefit of a comfortable ride.
2. 2021+ Mazda MX-5 Miata
Weighing 2,345 lbs. the latest MX-5 continues the proud Miata tradition of exploiting every one of its 181 HP from the 2.0-liter engine. The drivetrain is so responsive in fact, that instrument testing has proven it to be the fastest Miata of all time. Even faster than the car residing at number one on this list.
Great steering, amazing grip and the best transmission yet in any MX-5, the “ND” MX-5 delivers. So why is it only in second place? Well, we’ve saved a somewhat rare, special edition Miata for our number one slot. Hint: it’s the only factory Miata with forced induction.
1. 2004 Mazdaspeed MX-5 Miata
With a 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine making 178 HP and 166 lb-ft. of torque, the 2004-2005 Mazdaspeed MX-5 Miata was a significant upgrade power-wise over regular Miata's at the time. But claiming the Mazdaspeed as the best Miata of all time based on power alone wouldn’t make much sense as the MX-5 has never been about outright power.
What made the Mazdaspeed so special was that it’s a complete package. It came with a whack of chassis and suspension upgrades that included Bilstien shocks, beefier springs, wider tires, thicker anti-roll bars and a strut tower brace. To let passersby know this car was something special, the exterior also received upgrades include a tasteful skirt package, 17-inch wheels and a rear spoiler.
Although the new 2021+ MX-5 Miata is faster, there’s something undeniably cool about a second generation Miata with a factory turbo engine and all the upgrades to match. Almost 20 years later, it’s still the coolest MX-5 Miata ever produced.
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A 20+ year industry veteran, Mike rejoins the AutoGuide team as the Managing Editor. He started his career at a young age working at dealerships, car rentals, and used car advertisers. He then found his true passion, automotive writing. After contributing to multiple websites for several years, he spent the next six years working at the head office of an automotive OEM, before returning back to the field he loves. He is a member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), and Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA). He's the recipient of a feature writing of the year award and multiple video of the year awards.
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91 BRG
Have owned a 1994 Miata.Bought from a now gone belly up shop in Bham. AL.With 52k on it.Great milage sure being 1st. Turbo helped alot.Then added a 2 stage Nos kit.Turn this meek mild auto into a track ready car.Car was stolen 11yrs.later during that time ,mechanical wise replaced the clutch pressure plate and throw out bearing.Parts cost 309.10.Currently own a 1999model with 51k on it did ad turbocharger,nos,different cam to keep rpm,s down.Currently looking for 2007 or 08.My own overal experience.Never run it Hot,Stay under or close to red line.They will give you what most people want without going to ,What I refer to a status symbol car such as P.Boxter etc....J.D.M.Lower Alabama.