Important Disclaimer - AI-Powered Identification
This identification is generated by an AI-powered tool for informational purposes only and should not be considered an official vehicle appraisal.
Key Limitations:
- AI analysis may contain errors or inaccuracies
- Cannot verify vehicle history or detect modifications
- Assessment limited to visible features in submitted images
- Does not account for mechanical condition or hidden damage
NOT to be used for:
- Insurance coverage determinations
- Tax reporting or estate valuations
- Legal proceedings or dispute settlements
- Commercial transactions or lending decisions
- Any purpose requiring certified appraisal
Always consult qualified professionals before making financial decisions. We assume no liability for losses resulting from use of this identification.
1990-1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata (NA)
Mazda MX-5 Miata
1989-1997 (First Generation - NA) · Convertible / Sports Car
Rarity Score
4/10 - Common Enthusiast Car. While mass-produced, clean NA models are becoming harder to find as they age and suffer from rust or heavy modification.
Spot Difficulty
3/10 - Easy to spot. They are frequent sights at local car meets, autocross events, and canyon roads on sunny days, though less common in winter or heavy rain.
Engine & Performance
Engine: 1.6L or 1.8L DOHC Inline-4, naturally aspirated, producing approximately 115-133 horsepower and 100-114 lb-ft of torque.
Transmission & Drivetrain: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic; Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD).
Performance: 0-60 mph in ~8.3-9.0 seconds, top speed of ~116-120 mph, curb weight of ~2,100-2,300 lbs.
Exterior
Classic Red paint with a black soft top. Featuring aftermarket gold mesh BBS-style wheels with polished lips, pop-up headlights (activated), a front chin spoiler, and a chrome luggage rack on the trunk.
Interior Features
Minimalist driver-centric cockpit with cloth or leather bucket seats, 3-spoke steering wheel, analog gauges, and basic AM/FM/Cassette radio.
Condition Assessment
Good - The car appears mostly complete and functional, though the paint shows signs of age/fading (typical for single-stage Classic Red) and it is being driven in wet conditions.
Condition Issues: Slightly faded paint on the rear quarter panel, potentially worn soft top seals, and aftermarket wheels that may affect value for purist collectors.
Estimated Mileage: 80,000 - 150,000 miles
Historical Significance
The MX-5 is credited with reviving the affordable roadster segment. It is the best-selling two-seat sports car in history and known for its 'Jinba Ittai' (horse and rider as one) engineering philosophy.
Notable Features
Signature pop-up headlights, aftermarket mesh wheels, chrome luggage rack, and front lip spoiler.
Production Numbers
Approximately 431,506 units of the NA generation were produced worldwide between 1989 and 1997.
Valuation
Estimated Market Value: $6,000 - $12,000
Auction Estimate: $7,000 - $15,000 (depending on mechanical health)
Maintenance Recommendations
Timing belt and water pump every 60k miles, check for 'short-nose crank' issues on early 1.6L models, and clear rain rail drains to prevent floorboard rust.
Fun Facts
The NA Miata was inspired by British roadsters like the Lotus Elan. The door handles were designed to mimic the feeling of a high-end camera shutter. It is one of the only cars whose owners regularly communicate with each other using the pop-up headlights (the 'wink').
Identified on: 7/10/2026
This AI-generated identification is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional evaluation. We assume no liability for decisions made based on this information.Read full disclaimer