1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata

Introduced at the Chicago Auto Show in early 1989 and first available for sale in showrooms in the summer of 1989, the first-year MX-5 Miata was actually a 1990 model. Built to continue the tradition of the classic British roadsters of the 1950s and '60s, such as roadsters from MG, Triumph, and Austin-Healey, the MX-5 Miata was a front-engined, rear-wheel-drive drop-top two-seater.

Initially available only in a Base package, the MX-5 Miata was powered by a 116-horsepower, 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder engine that was mounted longitudinally. It was linked to a five-speed manual transmission, which was standard. A four-speed automatic was optional.
Standard equipment for the first-generation MX-5 Miata included bucket seats, power brakes, a driver's-side airbag, and 14-inch wheels. Air conditioning, power windows, cruise control, and a cassette player were all optional.