The Mazda Miata, later known as the MX-5 Miata, delivers top-down driving enjoyment and go-kart-like handling in a two-seat sports car that will surely bring a smile to your face. Unlike some others in this segment, the Miata has a good reputation for being reliable, and it holds its value well. The Miata is famous for its ease of use, including an ingenious retractable soft top that can be manually raised and lowered while sitting in the driver’s seat and using just one arm. Not terribly expensive when new, buying a used MX-5 Miata won’t take a big bite out of your monthly budget, nor will it cost you much when it comes time to fill up with gas.

Mazda MX-5 Miata Generations

Mazda MX-5 Miata ND (4th Generation: 2016 - Current)

Key Improvements: Key Improvements: The current MX-5 Miata shares nothing with the previous generation, imparting a radical new look with a slightly smaller footprint and less power. While these may sound like detractions, advances in engineering and technology allow the new MX-5 to perform as well or better than older generations. The 4-cylinder engine makes 155 horsepower paired with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic. Both transmissions deliver fuel economy estimates of around 27 mpg city and 34 to 36 mpg highway, making them as frugal as they are fun. Like its predecessor, the current MX-5 continues to offer a choice between a cloth soft top and a retractable hard top. Beyond styling, the most significant difference between the MX-5 and the fourth-generation car is its technology. An available Mazda Connect infotainment upgrade features an app-based system with a large digital display mainly controlled not by touch but by a rotary control knob located on the console. Depending on trim, you'll find never-before-offered safety equipment such as a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic detection, and lane-departure warning. Also new are automatic high-beam headlights, rain-sensing wipers, Bluetooth music streaming, and a USB input port.

Model Updates: For 2017, the MX-5 RF debuted touting a sleek retractable hardtop, and a blind-spot monitor was made standard on Club models. 2018 sees the option of Recaro sport seats added to the Brembo brake/BBS wheel package, while the base Sport model gains the Mazda Connect infotainment system. The 2019 MX-5 gets 26 more horses under the hood, while the 2020 models get more standard equipment, including driver-assistance systems like a blind-spot monitor and automatic emergency braking. Club and Grand Touring trims have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability, which became standard in 2021. The 2022 model gravitates back toward its enthusiast roots, permitting an automatic transmission option only on the top-line Grand Touring trim. Wireless Apple CarPlay is offered on the Club trim. The 2024 MX-5 gets a new 8.8-inch touchscreen display, some revised styling elements, and a few mechanical upgrades to the steering and rear differential.

Mazda MX-5 Miata NC (3rd Generation: 2006 - 2015)

Key Improvements: Although it still resembles the original car, you’ll be surprised to learn that not a single part is shared with the second-generation Miata. The 3rd generation MX-5 Miata’s enhancements are mostly hidden beneath its skin, where improvements to structural rigidity, suspension, and transmission make for a more enjoyable drive. Horsepower for this generation hovers around the 165-170 range, nearly 30 more than the second-generation car (not counting the 178-horsepower Mazdaspeed version). Expect fuel economy of 25 mpg city/30 mpg highway with the 5- or 6-speed manual transmissions and a bit less with 6-speed automatic, which now features manual shift mode. New features include Bilstein shocks, a proximity keyless entry system, and xenon headlights. This is also the first year the MX-5 label is officially attached to the Miata name. The third-generation MX-5 Miata offers more hip and shoulder room, more supportive seats, and more upscale features, making it a bit more of a grand touring car. An available retractable hard top adds a mere 77 pounds to the car’s overall weight and can be lowered in just 12 seconds.

Model Updates: For 2007, a retractable hardtop joins the MX-5 Miata lineup. Marking the Miata's 20th anniversary, the 2008 car gets a slight exterior refresh, and manual models see their redline move from 5,000 to 7,200 rpm. The 2012 car gains standard traction and stability control. The 2013-2015 MX-5 Miata carries over with only minor features, options, and styling changes.

Mazda MX-5 Miata NB (2nd Generation: 1999 - 2005)

Key Improvements: The second-generation Miata carries over much of the original car’s design and engineering. It loses the iconic pop-up headlights but gains a limited-run Mazdaspeed trim with a turbocharged engine.

Mazda MX-5 Miata NA (1st Generation: 1990 - 1998)

What's there to say? The original Miata changed everything, offering enthusiasts a small, affordable sports car with brilliant handling, an open-air cockpit, and years of worry-free operation. It has the fun of a British roadster with the reliability of a Japanese compact. Find one today in decent shape, and it still makes a fun SCCA weekend racer or daily commuter.

Mazda MX-5 Miata Buying Tips

Do you need help choosing the right Mazda MX-5 Miata trim level? Autotrader provides expert automotive advice to ensure you purchase the perfect vehicle.

How much does a Mazda Miata cost?

Mazda Miata prices vary by generation and range from $11,000 for a NB Miata to $25,000 for a ND Miata. Due to its relatively limited production run of approximately 5,500 units, a mint-condition Mazdaspeed Miata can sell for upwards of $20,000.

Used Mazda Miata Prices by Generation

ND Miata – $25,104 Average Price
NC Miata – $11,511 Average Price
NB Miata – $11,324 Average Price
NA Miata – $14,424 Average Price

Used MAZDA MX-5 Miata for Sale in Springfield, IL

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Used 2023 MAZDA MX-5 Miata Club w/ Brembo/BBS Recaro Package

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