Mazda MX5 Auto - First generation (NA)Picture Of Mazda Mx5 autoThere were a number of trim levels and special editions available, determined by local Mazda marketing departments. In the US, the base model was offered for US$13,995 at launch and was very basic, with manual windows, steel wheels, and without A/C or power steering. The "A Package" offered power steering, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, aluminum alloy wheels and cassette stereo. The "B Package" added power windows, along with cruise control and headrest speakers, while the "C Package" included a tan interior and top and leather seats. The "R Package" was for racing, and the annual...

Mazda MX5 Auto - First generation (NA)Picture Of Mazda Mx5 autoIn November 1993, in an attempt to boost sales, Mazda of Australia introduced an automatic transmission as an option on the MX5 for the first time. Unfortunately, sales continued to decline, and hit an all-time low of just 197 units in 1995.Picture Of Mazda Mx5 autoFor the 1994 model year, the first-generation MX5 was freshened with the introduction of the more powerful 1.8 L (110 cu in) BP-ZE engine, dual airbags and a limited slip differential in some markets. The chassis was substantially braced to meet new side-impact standards, most visibly by adding a "track bar" between the...

Mazda MX5 Auto - First generation (NA)Picture Of Mazda Mx5 autoThe original MX5 came with a 1.6 L (98 cu in) dual overhead cam inline four-cylinder engine, producing 90 kW (120 bhp) at 6,500rpm, and 136 N·m (100 lbf·ft) of torque at 5,500rpm. The engine employs an electronic fuel injection system using a vane-type air flow meter and a camshaft angle sensor instead of a distributor. This engine, codename B61P, had been previously used in the 323 series. Standard transmission was 5-speed manual. Japan and the USA got an optional automatic transmission which proved unpopular; these markets also received an optional viscous limited slip rear differential,...

Mazda MX5 Auto - First generation (NA)Picture Of Mazda Mx5 autoThe MX5 was unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show on February 10, 1989 with a price tag of US$14,000 (US$24,100 in 2008 adjusted for inflation). The MX5, with production code NA, was made available for delivery to buyers worldwide in the following dates: March 1989 in Japan, May 1989 (as a 1990 model) in the U.S.A. and Canada, 1990 in Europe. An optional hardtop was made available at the same time, in sheet moulding compound (SMC). Demand initially outstripped production, fueled by enthusiastic press reviews.Picture Of Mazda Mx5 autoIn Japan, the car was not badged as a Mazda, as the...