The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a legendary roadster that has captured the hearts of driving enthusiasts and casual drivers alike. Known for its agility, lightweight design, and exhilarating driving dynamics, the Miata has carved out a reputation as one of the most enjoyable sports cars in its class.
The Miata’s relatively low weight is one of its most defining features, making it nimble on the road, responsive in corners, and highly efficient on fuel. This article will delve into the weight of the Miata, discussing how it affects the vehicle’s performance, handling, fuel economy, and even cost. We’ll explore the weight across various model years, trim levels, and discuss how it has evolved over time.
What Is a Miata?
The Mazda MX-5 Miata, commonly known as the Miata, is a two-seat, rear-wheel-drive roadster introduced by Mazda in 1989. With its lightweight frame, responsive handling, and driver-focused design, the Miata quickly gained a following among car enthusiasts, and it remains one of the most popular sports cars to date. The Miata’s design takes inspiration from classic British roadsters such as the Lotus Elan and Triumph Spitfire, blending the charm and character of those vintage cars with modern reliability and engineering.
What sets the Miata apart from many other roadsters is its commitment to lightness. Mazda engineers have consistently prioritized reducing the weight of the car to enhance performance, while maintaining a balance between comfort, safety, and affordability. The Miata is built for fun — it offers a simple yet effective driving experience, with minimal distractions and a focus on the joy of the road.
Types of Miata
Over the years, the Miata has evolved through multiple generations, each introducing new features, improvements, and changes to both performance and design. Despite these updates, the Miata has always maintained its lightweight ethos, which has remained central to its identity. Here’s a detailed look at the different types of Miatas across generations:
1. NA (1989–1997)
The NA Miata was the first generation of this iconic roadster. The vehicle made its debut at the Chicago Auto Show in 1989, marking a return to lightweight, affordable roadsters at a time when such cars had fallen out of favor. The NA Miata featured a 1.6L inline-4 engine, pop-up headlights, and a simple, minimalist design that focused entirely on driving pleasure.
- Weight: The NA Miata weighed approximately 2,100 lbs (953 kg), which made it one of the lightest cars on the market at the time. Its low weight, combined with the relatively small engine, resulted in an agile and responsive driving experience.
- Driving Characteristics: With a 5-speed manual transmission and a near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution, the NA Miata offered an exceptional driving experience. The car was incredibly nimble, making it ideal for tight corners and spirited driving on twisty roads.
Despite its lightweight design, the NA Miata was built to last, with Mazda focusing on delivering reliable performance and ease of maintenance. The pop-up headlights were one of its most recognizable features, adding to the car’s distinct personality.
2. NB (1998–2005)
The NB Miata introduced several updates to the original design, including fixed headlights, improved safety features, and a more refined interior. The second generation Miata still maintained the core qualities that made the NA a hit, but Mazda made incremental improvements to modernize the car without losing its spirit.
- Weight: The curb weight of the NB Miata increased slightly to around 2,200 lbs (998 kg), mainly due to the inclusion of more modern safety features such as side airbags, crumple zones, and better structural reinforcements.
- Engine and Performance: Like the NA, the NB Miata came with the 1.8L inline-4 engine, providing a little more power without sacrificing weight. It was paired with a 5-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed manual in higher trims, offering a smooth and engaging driving experience.
- Improvements: The NB Miata featured redesigned, more durable parts and was available with a more comfortable and ergonomic interior, making it a better car for long trips without sacrificing the fun-to-drive nature.
3. NC (2006–2015)
The NC Miata represented a significant shift in the Miata’s evolution. While it kept the same basic layout, the NC Miata was larger and offered more features than its predecessors. This generation also introduced the option of a retractable hardtop, a feature that was welcomed by many Miata fans who wanted the versatility of a hardtop but still desired the open-air experience.
- Weight: With its increased size and new features, the NC Miata weighed between 2,300–2,400 lbs (1,043–1,088 kg). The added weight was mostly due to the larger 2.0L engine and additional safety features.
- Features: The NC Miata marked the inclusion of modern technologies such as improved infotainment systems, Bluetooth connectivity, and advanced safety systems like stability control and traction control. The introduction of the 2.0L engine in the NC Miata provided more power and made it a more competent performer for highway driving and track days.
- Driving Experience: Despite the increase in weight, the NC Miata remained a great driver’s car. It still offered an incredible level of feedback, and the addition of modern technologies only enhanced the driving experience without detracting from its fundamental lightness and agility.
4. ND (2016–Present)
The ND Miata marks a return to a more minimalist design, with Mazda emphasizing the Miata’s core identity as a lightweight, agile roadster. Although the ND Miata includes modern features such as a 1.5L or 2.0L inline-4 engine and advanced infotainment systems, Mazda has managed to keep the weight relatively low, ensuring that the Miata remains fun and responsive.
- Weight: The ND Miata weighs between 2,300–2,400 lbs (1,043–1,088 kg), similar to the NC Miata. However, it maintains a more compact design and utilizes lightweight materials, such as aluminum, to keep the weight from creeping up.
- Performance and Technology: The ND Miata features the 1.5L engine in the base model and the more powerful 2.0L engine in higher trims, both paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. The ND Miata continues the tradition of agile, responsive handling, with advanced technologies such as Kinematic Posture Control and revised suspension.
- Driving Experience: One of the highlights of the ND Miata is its return to the fundamentals of the original Miata: lightweight, balanced handling, and pure driving enjoyment. The Miata’s steering, suspension, and handling have been carefully tuned to provide an engaging experience, while modern features like adaptive headlights and lane-keep assist offer convenience and safety.
How Much Does a Miata Weigh?
The weight of a Miata plays a significant role in its overall performance and driving experience. Here’s a breakdown of the curb weight for each generation:
- NA Miata (1989–1997):
- Curb Weight: 2,100 lbs (953 kg)
- The original Miata was lightweight and simple, offering pure driving joy. This generation set the standard for what a sports car should be in terms of performance, weight, and fun-to-drive characteristics.
- NB Miata (1998–2005):
- Curb Weight: 2,200 lbs (998 kg)
- With safety upgrades and a slightly larger body, the NB Miata gained a bit of weight but still retained the lightness and agility that made it a favorite among enthusiasts.
- NC Miata (2006–2015):
- Curb Weight: 2,300–2,400 lbs (1,043–1,088 kg)
- The NC Miata saw more significant changes, with a larger engine and more features, contributing to a slightly higher curb weight. However, the Miata remained a dynamic and fun sports car with a relatively low weight.
- ND Miata (2016–Present):
- Curb Weight: 2,300–2,400 lbs (1,043–1,088 kg)
- The ND Miata retains the same weight range as the NC but with a more compact and lightweight design, utilizing aluminum and other lightweight materials to maintain the Miata’s fun and agile handling.
Comparison Table of Miata Weights
| Generation | Model Years | Engine Options | Transmission Options | Curb Weight (lbs) | Curb Weight (kg) | Price Range (USD) | Top Speed (mph) | 0-60 mph (seconds) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NA | 1989–1997 | 1.6L, 1.8L Inline-4 | 5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic | 2,100 | 953 | $15,000–$25,000 | 120 | 6.0 |
| NB | 1998–2005 | 1.6L, 1.8L Inline-4 | 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual | 2,200 | 998 | $20,000–$30,000 | 125 | 5.8 |
| NC | 2006–2015 | 1.8L, 2.0L Inline-4 | 5-speed manual, 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic | 2,300–2,400 | 1,043–1,088 | $25,000–$35,000 | 130 | 5.6 |
| ND | 2016–Present | 1.5L, 2.0L Inline-4 | 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic | 2,300–2,400 | 1,043–1,088 | $30,000–$35,000 | 140 | 5.5 |
Basics of Miata Weight
The curb weight refers to the weight of the vehicle when it’s fully equipped with all standard fluids and a full tank of gas but without any passengers or cargo. The weight of a vehicle like the Miata plays a vital role in how it performs, handles, and drives. A lighter vehicle can accelerate faster, stop more effectively, and turn more quickly. For sports cars like the Miata, this weight directly translates into a better driving experience.
Factors Influencing Miata Weight
Several factors affect the weight of a Miata:
- Material Choices: The Miata is known for using lightweight materials such as aluminum for the hood, trunk, and other body panels. This helps keep the weight low while still ensuring structural integrity and safety.
- Engine Size: Larger engines can add weight. While the Miata has used relatively small engines, the introduction of a 2.0L engine in later models increased the weight slightly. However, Mazda has offset this weight with intelligent engineering solutions.
- Trim and Features: Higher trims with additional features, such as leather seats, advanced infotainment, or a retractable hardtop, add some weight. These options may provide more comfort and convenience but can make the car heavier.
- Safety Enhancements: As safety standards have evolved, so has the Miata’s design. Added safety features, including airbags, reinforced frame components, and electronic stability systems, can increase the car’s weight.
Why a Miata’s Weight Matters
The Miata’s low weight plays a significant role in its appeal and performance:
- Agility and Handling: A lighter car has better handling characteristics. The Miata’s weight allows it to change direction quickly, giving it the nimbleness that has made it famous among sports car enthusiasts.
- Fuel Efficiency: A lighter car is more fuel-efficient because the engine doesn’t need to work as hard to move it. This allows the Miata to achieve impressive fuel economy, making it more affordable to drive over long distances.
- Performance: Weight reduction improves acceleration, braking, and cornering, enhancing the overall performance. The Miata’s low weight ensures that its small engine has plenty of power-to-weight ratio to provide a thrilling experience.
- Cost: Mazda’s focus on maintaining a lightweight design helps keep production costs down, which can lead to more affordable pricing for consumers. It allows the Miata to deliver high performance without breaking the bank.
How Much Does a Miata Cost?
- New Miata (2025): The price for a new Miata typically starts at $29,530 for the base model and can go up to around $35,000 for higher trims like the RF (retractable hardtop) models.
- Used Miata: Depending on the year, condition, and mileage, used Miatas range in price from around $5,000 for older models to $30,000 for newer, well-maintained versions.
How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Miata?
Renting a Miata can be a fun experience, especially if you want to test the car for a day or take it on a road trip:
- Daily Rental: Generally around $100–$150 per day.
- Weekly Rental: Can range from $600–$900 per week.
How Much Does a Miata Tire Weigh?
- Standard tire: A typical Miata tire weighs around 20–25 lbs (9–11 kg).
- Performance tire: A performance-oriented tire weighs about 25–30 lbs (11–14 kg).
How Much Does a Miata Tire Cost?
- Standard tire: Costs around $50–$100 per tire.
- Performance tire: Typically costs between $100–$200 per tire.
How Much Fuel Does a Miata Use?
The Miata’s fuel efficiency is one of its standout features:
- Fuel Economy: Miatas generally achieve 26–35 miles per gallon (MPG), depending on the model and driving conditions. This makes it an efficient option for those who want performance without sacrificing fuel economy.
How Much Does a Miata Hard Top Weigh?
A Miata hardtop adds a bit of weight to the car:
- Hardtop Weight: Typically between 40–50 lbs (18–23 kg).
How Fast Can a Miata Go?
The Miata is more about fun and agility than pure speed. However, it still offers respectable performance:
- Top Speed: The Miata can reach top speeds between 120–140 mph (193–225 km/h), depending on the engine and trim level.
Conclusion
The Miata’s low weight remains one of its most important features, contributing to its incredible performance, handling, and fuel efficiency. Over the years, Mazda has balanced the introduction of new features with the preservation of the Miata’s agile and lightweight design. Whether you’re driving an early model or the latest ND Miata, its weight ensures it remains one of the most enjoyable and responsive sports cars on the market today.
Fun Facts
- The Miata is known as one of the lightest sports cars on the market.
- Even with modern features and safety enhancements, the Miata has maintained its lightweight roots.
- A Miata’s low weight allows it to be one of the most fuel-efficient sports cars available.
- Despite its lightweight design, the Miata still provides a high-performance experience that rivals more expensive sports cars.