Generation Hub

Mazda MX-5 1999-2005

1999–2005
Overview

The Mazda MX-5, from 1999 to 2005, marked the evolution of this iconic sports car, maintaining its reputation as a lightweight and fun-to-drive roadster. The design featured a sleek and classic roadster appearance, with a low-slung profile and a manually retractable soft top, allowing drivers to enjoy the open-air driving experience. With a focus on driver engagement, the MX-5 featured precise steering and a well-balanced chassis, making it incredibly agile and responsive on winding roads.

Inside the cabin, the MX-5 offered a driver-centric layout with straightforward controls. While the emphasis was on the driving experience, comfort was not overlooked, with supportive seats and a simple yet functional interior. The MX-5's accessible price point and excellent reliability made it popular among sports car enthusiasts. Whether driven as a weekend toy or a daily commuter, this generation of the MX-5 captured the essence of driving pleasure. Its lightweight construction and balanced handling earned it a place in the hearts of driving enthusiasts worldwide.

Specifications

Chassis

  • Type: NB

Engine 1.8L 4-CylinderDOHC

  • Recommended oil viscosity: 5W-20
  • Oil certification: API
  • Drain Plug Torque: 22-30FT-LBS
  • Oil capacity: 4.0 quarts

Spark Plug Gap

  • 2.3L 4-Cylinder: 0.044”

Fuel

  • Capacity: 48.0 L (12.7 US gal, 10.6 Imp gal)

Coolant

  • Capacity: 
  • MX-5/Miata : 6.0 L (6.3 US qt, 5.3 Imp qt)

Manual transmission oil

  • Type: 
    • Any temperature, API Service: GL-4
    • Any temperature, SAE: 75W-90
    • Above 10°C (50°F), API Service GL-4 or GL-5
    • Above 10°C (50°F), SAE: 80W-90
  • Capacity: 
    • 5-Speed transmission: 2.0 L (2.1 US qt, 1.8 Imp qt)
    • 6-Speed transmission: 1.8 L (1.9 US qt, 1.6 Imp qt)

Automatic transmission fluid

  • Type: ATF M-III or equivalent (e.g., Dexron® III)
  • Capacity: 6.7 L (7.1 US qt, 5.9 Imp qt)

Rear Differential Oil

  • Type:
    •  API Service: GL-5
    •  SAE: 90

Brake/Clutch fluid

  • Type: SAE J1703 or FMVSS116 DOT-3

Power steering fluid

  • Type: ATF M-III or equivalent (e.g., Dexron® III)

Powertrain

Engine

  • 1.6 L (98 cu in) B6-ZE I4 (Europe/Japan)
  • 1.8 L (110 cu in) BP-5A I4 (Japan)
  • 1.8 L (110 cu in) BP-4W I4
  • 1.8 L (110 cu in) BP-Z3 I4
  • 1.8 L (110 cu in) turbocharged BPT I4 (Mazdaspeed)

Transmission

  • 5-speed manual
  • 4-speed automatic
  • 6-speed Aisin AZ6 manual

Fuel Consumption

MAZDA MX5 FUEL CONSUMPTION

Safety Ratings

MAZDA MX5 SAFETY RATINGS

Warning Lights & Bulb Sizes

Front Lights

  • Front Fog Light Bulb: 9006
  • Front Sidemarker Light Bulb: 194
  • Front Turn Signal Light Bulb: 1157NA
  • High Beam Headlight Bulb: 9005
  • Low Beam Headlight Bulb: 9006

Rear Lights

  • Back Up Light Bulb: 7440
  • Brake Light Bulb: 7443
  • Center High Mount Stop Light Bulb: 1156
  • License Plate Light Bulb: 2825
  • Parking Light Bulb: 1157NA
  • Rear Turn Signal Light Bulb: 7440NA
  • Tail Light Bulb: 7443

Interior Lights

  • Dome Light Bulb: DE3175

Owner Reviews Members

Member reviews

Sign in to read and submit owner reviews, star ratings, and real-world pros & cons for this generation.

Recalls NHTSA
Make
Mazda
Model
MX-5

Find on your dashboard, door jamb sticker, or registration

Searching...