Which Mazda MX-5 Model Do I Have?
Since its launch in 1989, the Mazda MX-5 has sold under various names — including Mazda Miata, Mazda Roadster and Eunos Roadster across the USA, Europe and Japan. Since its inception, the compact convertible has evolved through four key generations, each with their own midlife updates and a myriad of special editions to boot.
Today, the MX-5 has a legacy all of its own, renowned for its driving thrills and extensive aftermarket potential due to the model’s cult following. As a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive (RWD) sports car, it combines spectacularly nimble handling with a balanced ride and an affordable price. Whether you’re new to the MX-5 Miata or a long-time owner, this guide offers everything you need to know about each generation and their unique characteristics.
Mazda MX-5 Generations Overview
Each MX-5 generation has its own personality, design philosophy, and performance advantages. The NA, for example, was launched in 1989 with some less than subtle nods towards the Lotus Elan that inspired it — including pop-up headlights and chrome door handles.
Here’s a quick breakdown to help you understand the key differences between each model iteration, past and present.
| Model | Production Years | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| NA (Mk1) | 1989-1997 | Pop-up headlights, lightweight build, highly responsive steering. The NA stands for Naturally Aspirated, so no turbo. A 1994 refresh included minor interior and exterior updates; the 1.8-litre engine was introduced, replacing the original 1.6-litre. |
| NB (Mk2) | 1998-2001 | The NB has fixed headlights, increased suspension rigidity, and an updated interior. Compared to the NA, which offers that raw classic feeling, the NB is a bit more refined and modern. |
| NB FL (Mk2.5) | 2001-2005 | The NB FL is the midlife update for the NB, with improved a revised infotainment setup, projector-style headlights and a new front bumper. The FL model, which stands for facelift, also introduced more torquey engine options and additional safety features — like optional ABS and side airbags. |
| NC (Mk3) | 2006-2008 | The Mk3 was offered with a rounded grille (similar to the Mk1 and 1998-2000 Mk2) as standard. In 2006, buyers also got the Power Retractable Hard Top option. It’s an overall heavier build with a stiffer chassis, multilink rear suspension and a 2.0-litre engine option. |
| NC2 (Mk3.5) | 2009-2015 | The Mk3.5 NC2 got an updated grille and headlights, more like the Mk2.5 NB FL MX-5. Engines were updated and 2.0 rev limit increased from 6,750rpm to 7,000rpm. In 2013, the MX-5 Mk3 got a facelift (often called the NC3 (Mk3.75), which introduced an enlarged and more angular grille, with revisions to the headlights and fog lights. |
| ND (Mk4) | 2015-Present | The newest MX-5 generation, the ND, got SKYACTIV technology and cutting-edge design. In 2017, the soft top was joined by the MX-5 RF (Retractable Fastback). |
Mazda MX-5 Miata Limited Edition Models
There have also been a number of special edition MX-5s over the years, with popular limited editions including:
- 1991 Limited Edition Mazda MX-5: British Racing Green with tan leather interior, BBS wheels.
- 1999 10th Anniversary Edition: Sapphire Blue Mica with 6-speed manual, unique wheels, and interior trim.
- 2004 Mazdaspeed Miata: Turbocharged model (US only) with Bilstein shocks, a six-speed manual transmission, and unique exterior/interior styling.
- MX5 NC 2013 25th Anniversary Edition: Limited-run with unique colours, badges, and a high-end interior.
- 2019 MX-5 30th Anniversary Edition: Exclusive Racing Orange colour, forged aluminium wheels, Brembo brakes, and numbered badges.
MX-5 Identification with VIN and Chassis Codes
If you can’t tell apart MX-5 generations visually, especially as the facelifted variants take style cues from other generations, you can use the VIN. Using the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) is the most soundproof way to differentiate between Mazda MX-5 (Miata) generations, facelifts, and even some region-specific models.
You’ll find your VIN inside and around your car in various places, like the driver’s side of the dashboard, near the base of the windscreen. You can see it from outside the car by looking through the windscreen. It’ll also be on the driver’s door frame. Older MX-5s may have the VIN stamped on the engine block or under the carpet in the boot.
If your car came with documentation, you can check the V5C Logbook and recent MOT certificates. You can also hunt for the VIN in your insurance documents. If your car has a robust paper trail from careful previous owners, the VIN is potentially noted in the owner’s manual or documents you received when buying the car.
Your VIN represents various details about your car, including the year it was built. For example, if your MX-5’s VIN is JM1NB3538Y0153757, we can deduce it was built in Japan by Mazda in 2000, and that it’s an NC / Mk2 model.
VIN Identifiers
J = Country of Origin (Japan)
M = Mazda (manufacturer)
1 = Passenger Car (type of vehicle)
NB = Model Code
The rest of the numbers and letters denote that it’s a convertible, what size engine it has, and other information about the car, including a specific 4-digit car ID number.
Do Different MX-5 Models Use Different Parts?
Yes, different Mazda MX-5 models will use different stock and aftermarket parts, especially as it’s been evolving in design for 30+ years. If you’re planning to shop for MX-5 performance parts for, say, your Mk3, you’ll need specific Mazda MX-5 NC parts for a snug fit. These parts are made bespoke for the different MX-5 models, meaning an NB part won’t fit an ND, and likewise.
You can also check out our comprehensive genuine Mazda MX-5 parts catalogue, which is where we stock a huge number of genuine parts for all marques of the MX-5 Miata (Mk1—Mk4), increasing our genuine lines to more than 7000.
