History of the Mazda Miata Part 1
Arguably the most recognized and important vehicle in the history of Mazda automotive manufacturing, the Mazda Miata has long held a place in pop culture and on American roads. First debuting at the Chicago Auto Show of 1989, the MX-5 Miata has undergone a few evolutions to bring it to its modern standing. The most popular roadster in history is still going strong after thirty years, and we are here to celebrate the spectacular Miata.
Introduction of the Miata
Designed by an American engineer, the most famous features of the first Mazda Miata are the pop-up headlights and convertible roof. The Mazda MX-5 Miata’s first iteration followed the classic British design, with the engine in front and rear-wheel drive. The unique front fascia of the Miata and its zippy handling made it a triumphant success in the American market.
Just two years after its inception, the Miata added an automatic transmission and anti-lock brakes to enhance the lightweight sports car. In 1994, Mazda improved the safety of the Miata, reinforcing the doors and rear, and adding passenger-side airbags. The next year, the Mazda Miata wheel options expanded to include a new 15-inch model.
The second generation of the MX-5 Miata came in 1999, ditching the pop-up headlights and adding a bit more curves to the design so it wasn’t as meek-looking. This generation featured numerous special and limited editions that each had unique features and attributes to them.
The Japanese car also gets a speed boost thanks to Mazdaspeed adding a turbocharged engine in 2004.
The Mazda Miata soft top sports car has been a staple of American roads for decades already, and next time we will discuss the modern era of the Miata.
Find one of these older Miata model years by looking at the used vehicle inventory of Hawk Mazda.
Introduction of the Miata
Designed by an American engineer, the most famous features of the first Mazda Miata are the pop-up headlights and convertible roof. The Mazda MX-5 Miata’s first iteration followed the classic British design, with the engine in front and rear-wheel drive. The unique front fascia of the Miata and its zippy handling made it a triumphant success in the American market.
Just two years after its inception, the Miata added an automatic transmission and anti-lock brakes to enhance the lightweight sports car. In 1994, Mazda improved the safety of the Miata, reinforcing the doors and rear, and adding passenger-side airbags. The next year, the Mazda Miata wheel options expanded to include a new 15-inch model.
The second generation of the MX-5 Miata came in 1999, ditching the pop-up headlights and adding a bit more curves to the design so it wasn’t as meek-looking. This generation featured numerous special and limited editions that each had unique features and attributes to them.
The Japanese car also gets a speed boost thanks to Mazdaspeed adding a turbocharged engine in 2004.
The Mazda Miata soft top sports car has been a staple of American roads for decades already, and next time we will discuss the modern era of the Miata.
Find one of these older Miata model years by looking at the used vehicle inventory of Hawk Mazda.