Used 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata for Sale near Chicago, IL
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Overview
A new STO Edition of Mazda's MX-5 Miata, available in limited numbers, was introduced for 1997. It joined the existing Base model of the MX-5, as well as an upscale M-Edition, which received a makeover, with new Marina Green exterior paint and redesigned alloy wheels. Standard features for the Base model included a manually operated soft top, power brakes, dual front airbags, remote fuel and trunk releases, an AM/FM/cassette stereo system, and 14-inch wheels. Options included a removable hardtop, air conditioning, power windows, anti-lock brakes, cruise control, a CD player, aluminum alloy wheels, and leather seats. The M Edition received such upgrades as air conditioning, power windows, anti-lock brakes, a CD player, and leather seats, as well as special interior and exterior colors. The MX-5 Miata's styling, handling, and quickness, as well as its reliability, all received high marks from drivers. On the negative side, a tight compartment and limited storage space were cited by some drivers (but then again, this is a two-seat convertible roadster, so that's to be expected, right?).
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Serge K
Reviewed a 1997 Mazda M-Edition on Sep 30, 2011
Performance - out of the box these cars are ready for a great deal of street fun. Older Miatas are plagued with heavier add ons like Power Steering, Air Bag, and Air Conditions. Most of the accessories serve a good purpose and you can still improve handling by getting a coil over kit and sway bars that will make it an instantaneous fun track car. NA engine is weak for muscle car enthusiasts but plenty powerful for sharp cornering. Brakes are great, racing pads and SS lines make them even better. Build Quality - It's a Japanese car, however because Miatas were supposed to be the affordable British roadster, things like the mirrors hood and exhaust shield vibrating are very common. Appearance - Styled to mimic the old Lotus Elan, the Miata looks awesome in every color. Plus the huge market of aftermarket parts makes it very easy to customize and any Miata's appearance. Cost of Ownership - With mid grade gas and averaging 28 mpg, the car is surprisingly economical for something people take to the track. Parts are available, there are a few common mechanical issues that pop up at different mileages but overall, if you keep a Miata properly maintained, it should outlast a lot of newer cars with more ECU guided systems. Fun Factor - It has it.
John R
Reviewed a 1997 Mazda Base on Oct 26, 2010
I enjoy the car, mechanically it hasn't given me hardly any trouble and I've taken it on a 2000 mile road trip. It gets good gas mileage and the power isn't terrible, but isn't anything to brag about either. I would like to upgrade the suspension and replace the top, as they are both getting a little worn after being used for close to 14 years. Altogether though a great little car, corners great and would be an amazing driving experience with some serious money put into the engine (perhaps a supercharger or v8 swap?).
John V
Reviewed a 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata on Jul 21, 2010
Medium acceleration and top speed. Fair braking, good handling. Great built quality, excellent appearance, good driving position. Extremely low cost of ownership. If it "had" a "European badge", it would have been much much more expensive. Fun factor? Sky is the limit!
Brandon R
Reviewed a 1997 Mazda M-Edition on Oct 6, 2009
It's a driver's car like no other, and one that can be thoroughly enjoyed on regular surface roads without being too dangerous to one's self or others. It may not be terribly fast in a straight line or practical but it is far and away more fun than just about any car on the rod. Doesn't hurt it's very reliable.
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