Mazda MX-5 Miata

Mazda MX-5 Miata NB (2nd Gen)

1999-2005

Budget BeaterExcellent

1.8L I4 (BP-Z3 / BP-4W)140-142 hp2,293-2,480 lbsRWD5-speed manual / 6-speed manual (NB2), 4-speed auto

HPDE Overview

The NB is the NA Miata refined. The chassis is stiffer, the interior is slightly more civilized, and the driving dynamics remain pure and communicative. For track use, the NB1 (1999-2000) is Spec Miata eligible, making it a direct competitor to the NA. The NB2 (2001-2005) got variable valve timing, slightly revised suspension geometry, and the optional 6-speed Aisin gearbox — all improvements that make it a better pure track car if you are not restricted to Spec Miata rules. The fixed headlights reduce frontal drag compared to the NA's pop-ups, and the slightly stiffer chassis means the car responds better to suspension upgrades without needing a roll cage to tie things together. Steering feel is nearly identical to the NA — telepathic and perfectly weighted. The brake upgrade from the NA is modest but meaningful; the NB handles 20-minute sessions at most tracks without significant fade when running quality pads and fresh fluid. The NB is about 100-150 lbs heavier than the NA, which is noticeable but not transformative. Where you really feel the difference is in the slightly more refined interior — less rattling, better sealing, and marginally more comfortable seats (though they still need replacing for track use).

Strengths

Stiffer chassis than NA reduces cowl shake and improves handling consistencyVVT on NB2 (2001+) provides better mid-range torque for stronger corner exits6-speed option (NB2) gives better gear selection for most track layoutsSame legendary steering feel and 50/50 balance as the NA in a more refined packageFixed headlights are simpler and slightly more aerodynamic than NA pop-upsMassive parts interchangeability with NA means the same deep aftermarket applies

Weaknesses

About 100-150 lbs heavier than equivalent NA, which is noticeable in transitionsNB2 VVT engines are not Spec Miata legal, limiting competitive racing optionsSame lack of straight-line speed as the NA — still slow by any objective measureStock seats are slightly better than NA but still inadequate for serious track useGlass rear window on hardtop adds weight compared to the plastic-window versions

Why People Love It

The NB is the sweet spot of the Miata lineup for many track drivers. It has the NA's purity with a slightly stiffer chassis, and the NB2 VVT engine is noticeably punchier in the mid-range where you actually drive on track. The 6-speed gearbox on later models is a genuine improvement for track use. It is still cheap to buy, cheap to maintain, and cheap to race. The community support is identical to the NA, and the car rewards skilled driving over big budgets. If you want to race Spec Miata, the NB1 is arguably the better starting point than the NA because the chassis is more rigid out of the box.

Why People Hate It

Everything said about the NA being slow applies here too, with the added annoyance that the NB is slightly heavier. The styling is less iconic than the NA — the fixed headlights and softer lines do not turn heads the same way. The NB2's VVT engine, while better for track use, disqualifies the car from Spec Miata if you ever want to race in the biggest amateur class in America. And at this age (20+ years old), every NB has some combination of worn bushings, tired suspension, and electrical gremlins that need sorting before you can track it confidently.

Best For

Budget-conscious track day enthusiasts, aspiring Spec Miata racers (NB1), NASA ST5 competitors, anyone who wants a slightly more refined NA experience.

Not Ideal For

Tall drivers, power junkies, anyone who needs a comfortable daily driver, or people who want a car that looks impressive in the paddock.