Used 1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata for Sale Nationwide
14 results
About 1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Overview
The first-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata went on sale in the summer of 1989 as a 1990 model. Designed in the tradition of the classic British roadsters of the 1950s and '60s, the MX-5 Miata was a front-engined, rear-wheel-drive two-seater.
In its first year, the MX-5 Miata was powered by a 116-horsepower, 1.6-liter, double-overhead-cam four-cylinder engine with multi-port electronic fuel injection. It was linked to a five-speed manual transmission, which was standard. A four-speed automatic was optional.
For its first year, the MX-5 Miata was available in Mariner Blue, Crystal White, and Classic Red. The standard convertible top for the MX-5 Miata was a manually operated soft folding top. A removable hardtop with a glass rear window was also available (for the Classic Red model only).
Other standard equipment for the 1990 MX-5 Miata included bucket seats, power brakes, a four-wheel double-wishbone suspension, retractable halogen headlights, a driver's-side airbag, a three-spoke steering wheel, and 14-inch wheels. Air conditioning, power windows, cruise control, aluminum alloy wheels, and a rear spoiler were all optional.
Right from the start, drivers and reviewers alike were impressed with the MX-5 Miata, citing its responsive handling, sporty styling, and reliability as positive points. The Miatas of the early '90s may now have high mileage, but many drivers note they are still going strong.
Relevant articles
The Best Concept Cars That Made It to Production
Throughout history, magazines, television shows and websites have focused on the wildest concept cars at auto shows in some of the world’s finest cities, which showed outrageous, forward-looking automobiles that we expected to buy in the future.
The Best Sports Cars Under $30k to Buy in 2026
You can buy some great sports cars with less than $30,000 to spend.
The Best Vehicles Under $10,000 With a Manual Transmission in 2026
The manual transmission is gradually disappearing from the automotive landscape, but there are still good cars and SUVs available for under $10,000 for those prepared to look for them. Here, we've surveyed sedans, sports cars, SUVs, and trucks to help guide your search.
4.7 Overall rating
Filter by rating
Dan W
Reviewed a 1990 Mazda Roadster on Sep 2, 2008
Although some minivan's could blow my doors off at a traffic light, this wasn't built for straight-line performance - it weighs in at a startling 2200lbs, has a super low CG, double wishbone suspension front and rear, and is rear wheel drive, making it scream through corners as if there were no corners to sweat. Effortless. I found out that I can push this car into corners about 15-20mph faster than I initially thought I could, which is always at LEAST twice the "curve speed limit". A lot of people still tote this to be a girl's car, but I've found that people that say that often tend to look at it differently after taking a tour around it, hearing it, seeing it move. I don't hear many jokes from them after a while - instead, I get asked for a ride or even to borrow the keys! The top is manual, requires only two latches to be unfastened, and can be folded back with one hand from the driver's seat. The engine loves to rev, and winds to a sweet sounding 7200rpm quickly. Gas mileage is generally in the low to high 20's, depending on how often your foot is in the pedal. xD These cars are very simply built; very minimalistic - but very solid. Repairs are limited to those that just tend to be needed after a while on any car - tires, timing belt, tune-up stuff. I've been very pleased with the reliability. All in all, this is one of those cars that if I HAD to sell it, I'd be impatiently waiting for another chance to own one down the road.
Robert A
Reviewed a 1990 Mazda Roadster on Dec 31, 2007
A brilliant small sports car. Just everything you need in a sports car of this size. I took mine accross Europe and it never missed a bit in the 5 years I had it.
Per L
Reviewed a 1990 Mazda Roadster on Nov 23, 2008
Its an open convertible like oldtimers as the Lotus Elite, MGA, Morgan and so on but at the same time its a Mazda. Therefore it always start and its never out of order. Being almost 20 years old I just have had to change brakes and exhaust system. At the same time its just fun to drive especially on a curly road in the spring on a sunny day in a forrest. It reacts like a gocart and look forward to a trip in my Miata
Federico B
Reviewed a 1990 Mazda Roadster on Jul 30, 2008
Best fun driving car for less than € 5000!! Mine was very early euro spec Mx5: with no power steering,but with a good torsen lsd. Fun,Fun,Fun for more or less 200000kms, with only clutch, gearbox(was only noisy...), and hood replaced. She was always perfect, in summer,or winter,in city center,or on autobahn at 200km/h. If you are young, and love to drive, buy one like mine: 116 ps first series and you'll love her forever!!! My next step is a Lotus Elise s2, just bought 2 months ago
1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata Trims
| Trim type | MSRP |
|---|---|
| Roadster | $14,069 |
1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata Price Trends
CarGurus tracks the prices of millions of used car listings every year. See how the average price of 1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata prices has changed over time.
See more price trends
