The 10 Best Mazda Miata Models of All-Time
The Mazda Miata is one of Mazda’s most popular models. The fourth-generation car was introduced in 1989 and reinvented more than ten times. It was hugely important to Mazda in the 1990s, leading the automaker to a 60% success rate across the entire range of its products. Thanks to its compact size and elegant handling traits, it remains a highly desired model. Since the introduction of the first-generation Miata in 1989, each generation has retained critical qualities of the previous model, with some minor enhancements. Here is a list of the ten most popular Mazda Miata models of all time.
10. 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata
As a first-generation Miata, the 992 Mazda MX-5 Miata was designed to be fun and economical. The most notable feature of the model was its highly responsive power, which featured a new DOHC inline-4 engine with 155 horsepower and an MX-5’s approachable price of $14,800 for a base model. The car was also user-friendly, with features like a convenient tilt steering wheel and an easy-to-use gearshift lever that made it sporty but easy to operate. The 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata is not a contemporary automobile since it misses all the modern perks. However, it is still highly regarded for being affordable, with high gas mileage and a fun driving experience.
9. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
The 1999 Edition came equipped with a sunroof, leather seats, and a digital clock. Thanks to advanced features such as a collapsible steering wheel and an anti-lock braking system, the Miata was also safe. The 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is rated as one of the best cars to drive owing to its responsive powertrain, fun handling, and straightforward controls. Unlike the previous models, the model had a more muscular body style, which resulted from a switch to steel-reinforced plastic and a more aerodynamic shape. Driving this Miata gives you the feeling that you are traveling back in time to the original Miata, but with a more refined body style and increased safety.
8. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
The 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata was a model with many small changes, including a new powertrain. Mazda updated the engine with 142 horsepower, and the suspension became even more resilient. The interior also featured better ergonomics and more significant climate controls. The 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata was a model that also had new features. Mazda added new technologies such as airbags and upgraded the cassette deck to a standard CD player. There were also some styling changes, but the most notable change was in the new roof drop and trunk lid structure made of carbon fiber, which added 5 lbs of weight and a more modern appearance.
7. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata Club
There was a redesign for the 2006 model, with the Mazda Miata adopting a smoother and more curved body style. It also featured a more prominent grille, a new front-end design, and larger taillights. The 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata Club came with 17-inch wheels, dual exhaust, a six-speed manual transmission, sport suspension, and 6.1 speakers from Bose. The most significant update was the engines, which Mazda replaced with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 170 horsepower. The 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata Club is a performance car suitable for an everyday driver, making it one of the best Miata models. Much credit goes to its luxurious interior and high-end technology without the price tag associated with them.
6. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring
The 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring was a model that had a lot of new features and updates, such as the introduction of a six-speed with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters and the removal of the rear telescoping shock absorbers. Nevertheless, this model was similar to its predecessors, considering it is an affordable sports car with an outstanding balance and high-performance capabilities that made it suitable for everyday driving. As a result, the 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring is highly sought after by Miata enthusiasts.
5. 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata Touring
The 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata Touring model had 167 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque. It also featured a six-speed with paddle shifters and a leather interior. In addition, technology was at the forefront for the 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata Touring, including Bluetooth and audio streaming capabilities, an auxiliary input port, and an MP3 player. The model also had new wheels and tires, which increased the handling capabilities by reducing road noise and adding extra comfort. Safety was also improved, including front, side, and head airbags. The 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata Touring is a very versatile car. You can drive it in various situations. It includes every amenity you would expect in a high-performance sports car and provides great functionality if you are not racing or driving too fast.
4. 2015 Mazda MX-5 Miata 25th Anniversary Edition
This model was based on the base trim and had special interior appointments, BBS wheels, unique badging, and a limited-slip differential. Its engine was a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with a manual transmission. The chassis was independent, and the brakes were ventilated discs. The 25th Anniversary Edition came with a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the interior featured Bose sound system and black leather seats with contrast stitching. There were also many high-end amenities, such as keyless ignition and Bluetooth capability. With superior handling, safety and technology, the 2015 Mazda MX-5 Miata 25th Anniversary Edition is highly sought after by buyers looking for a sports car that provides a luxury and sport feel. This vehicle is one of the best Miata models with a smooth ride, responsive handling, and excellent control.
3. 2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring
The Grand Touring Launch Edition was a model that featured a 2.0-liter engine, a 6-speed manual transmission, a limited-slip differential, a premium package, and a technology package. So what makes it different from other models? The sport-tuned suspension, Bilstein dampers, a front shock tower brace, and a selectable driving mode system. The model also had a good amount of power with 155 horsepower, a hybrid system that enabled torque vectoring, dynamic engine mounts, and a 6-speed manual transmission with paddle shifters. If in the market for a Miata model, the 2018 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring Launch Edition would make one of the most fun to drive. It is a sports car with exceptional handling and performance at an affordable price.
2. 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata Sport
The 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata Sport has a 2.0-liter engine with 181 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque, an optional 6-speed manual transmission, and six-speed manual transmission. The vehicle also comes with a sports suspension and a technology package that includes lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and a complete surround traffic monitoring system. The 2020 Mazda MX-5 Miata Sport is a car that is affordable and practical, making it one of the best models on the market. It offers good performance and luxury without going over budget, especially for new drivers.
1. 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata 30th Anniversary
This Mazda MX-5 Miata 30th Anniversary edition is one of the most coveted and best sold for good reason. It has a 2.0-liter engine that provides 181 horsepower, giving it great acceleration for starters. The vehicle also featured an adjustable suspension, front shock tower brace, and Bilstein dampers. The model also came with a 6-speed manual transmission and the technology package, including a lane-keeping assistant, adaptive cruise control, and a whole surround traffic monitoring system. The 2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata 30th Anniversary is one of the best models on the market, with unique features that make it a sports car you do not want to miss.
Summary
In conclusion, the MX-5 Miata came into the market in 1989. Since then, it’s upgraded to being a popular choice for sports car enthusiasts. Its affordability and relatively low maintenance costs make it very attractive to many buyers. The quality embraced in construction has also improved over time. It’s also among the most reliable vehicles on the market, featuring quality interior appointments and a comfortable ride. In addition, it boasts the best handling among sports cars today.
