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Want to know what package your Miata is and what it has? Here's a list courtesy of lambert's homepage.
1990
1991
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1990
Colors
* Classic Red
* Mariner Blue
* Crystal White
* Silver Stone Metallic (added in March)
Factory Options
* Base model: Manual steering, 14-inch steel wheels and no radio.
* A Package: Power-assisted steering, leather-wrapped steering wheel, aluminum alloy wheels and cassette stereo with anti-theft coding.
* B Package: Package A items plus cruise control, power windows and headrest speakers.
* Removeable hardtop (Classic Red only).
* Viscous-type limited-slip differential.
Comments
* The only interior color available for that first year was black, with a black top.
* The "Mazda" logo could be found on the driver's side of the front bumper, the center of the steering wheel, the center cap of the alloy wheel, and to the right of the license plate holder. To the left of the license plate area was the Miata script emblem printed in black on a chrome badge.
* The first factory radio was made by Panasonic, model #1267.
Spotting Tips
(The spotting tips are quick alternatives to looking at the car's VIN plate and hunting for the year code. All tips are for stock Miatas that have not been altered by the owner.)
* '90 Miatas were the only cars that do not have the two warning lights flanking the square info screen at the bottom center of the instrument panel.
* The early '90 Miatas were the only cars to have soft top latches that were finished in gloss black. Later in '90 the latches were changed to a flat black finish.
* To tell the packages apart, first look at the wheels. If the Miata has the steel wheels, it is a base model. If the Miata has alloy wheels, then it has package A or B. The easiest way to tell an A package from a B package is to look for the power windows, which is part of the B package only.
* Classic Red
* Mariner Blue
* Crystal White
* Silver Stone Metallic (added in March)
Factory Options
* Base model: Manual steering, 14-inch steel wheels and no radio.
* A Package: Power-assisted steering, leather-wrapped steering wheel, aluminum alloy wheels and cassette stereo with anti-theft coding.
* B Package: Package A items plus cruise control, power windows and headrest speakers.
* Removeable hardtop (Classic Red only).
* Viscous-type limited-slip differential.
Comments
* The only interior color available for that first year was black, with a black top.
* The "Mazda" logo could be found on the driver's side of the front bumper, the center of the steering wheel, the center cap of the alloy wheel, and to the right of the license plate holder. To the left of the license plate area was the Miata script emblem printed in black on a chrome badge.
* The first factory radio was made by Panasonic, model #1267.
Spotting Tips
(The spotting tips are quick alternatives to looking at the car's VIN plate and hunting for the year code. All tips are for stock Miatas that have not been altered by the owner.)
* '90 Miatas were the only cars that do not have the two warning lights flanking the square info screen at the bottom center of the instrument panel.
* The early '90 Miatas were the only cars to have soft top latches that were finished in gloss black. Later in '90 the latches were changed to a flat black finish.
* To tell the packages apart, first look at the wheels. If the Miata has the steel wheels, it is a base model. If the Miata has alloy wheels, then it has package A or B. The easiest way to tell an A package from a B package is to look for the power windows, which is part of the B package only.
1991
Colors
* Classic Red
* Mariner Blue
* Crystal White
* Silver Stone Metallic
* British Racing Green (Special Edition)
Factory Options
* A Package: Power-assisted steering, leather-wrapped steering wheel, aluminum alloy wheels and cassette stereo with anti-theft coding.
* B Package: Package A items plus cruise control, power windows and headrest speakers.
* Removeable hardtop (All colors except silver).
* Viscous-type limited-slip differential.
* (New) Automatic Transmission.
* (New) Anti-lock brakes (Requires Package B).
Comments
* Special Edition (British Racing Green only):
o The first special edition (SE) Miata was introduced in the spring of '91 and included British Racing Green paint, package B items, a tan interior and carpet, leather seats, Nardi wood shift knob, wood handbrake grip, stainless steel scuff plates, compact disc player, a personalized interior badge and a tan vinyl tonneau cover. Other options included a removeable hardtop, anti-lock brake system and 4-speed automatic transmission. Only 4,000 units were produced of this SE.
Spotting Tips
* The '91 Miata was the first year the two warning lights on the instrument panel were added. The pair of lights are flanking the square information screen at the bottom center of the instrument panel. In '92 the Miata got a rear sub-frame cross brace that one could see under the rear of the car. If there is no sub-frame cross brace, and there are two warning lights on the dash, then it is a '91 Miata.
Colors
* Classic Red
* Mariner Blue
* Crystal White
* Silver Stone Metallic
* British Racing Green (Special Edition)
Factory Options
* A Package: Power-assisted steering, leather-wrapped steering wheel, aluminum alloy wheels and cassette stereo with anti-theft coding.
* B Package: Package A items plus cruise control, power windows and headrest speakers.
* Removeable hardtop (All colors except silver).
* Viscous-type limited-slip differential.
* (New) Automatic Transmission.
* (New) Anti-lock brakes (Requires Package B).
Comments
* Special Edition (British Racing Green only):
o The first special edition (SE) Miata was introduced in the spring of '91 and included British Racing Green paint, package B items, a tan interior and carpet, leather seats, Nardi wood shift knob, wood handbrake grip, stainless steel scuff plates, compact disc player, a personalized interior badge and a tan vinyl tonneau cover. Other options included a removeable hardtop, anti-lock brake system and 4-speed automatic transmission. Only 4,000 units were produced of this SE.
Spotting Tips
* The '91 Miata was the first year the two warning lights on the instrument panel were added. The pair of lights are flanking the square information screen at the bottom center of the instrument panel. In '92 the Miata got a rear sub-frame cross brace that one could see under the rear of the car. If there is no sub-frame cross brace, and there are two warning lights on the dash, then it is a '91 Miata.
Colors
* Classic Red
* Mariner Blue
* Crystal White
* Silver Stone Metallic
* Brilliant Black
* Sunburst Yellow('92 only)
Factory Options
* A Package: Power-assisted steering, leather-wrapped steering wheel, aluminum alloy wheels and cassette stereo with anti-theft coding.
* B Package: Package A items plus cruise control, power windows, headrest speakers and a (New) power antenna.
* Removeable hardtop with (New) defroster and headliner (all colors).
* Viscous-type limited-slip differential.
* Automatic transmission.
* Anti-lock brakes (Requires Package B or black Miata).
Comments
* Mazda produced only 1,519 units of the Sunburst Yellow Miata and it was only available with option package A. The yellow 3-coat paint was listed as an extra-cost option for $250.
* Brilliant Black came in two different versions:
o Standard Features: Tan leather seating surfaces, leather-wrapped steering wheel, tan convertible top, aluminum alloy wheels, cassette stereo, power windows and power steering.
o Optional Features: Package C (available only with Brilliant Black), BBS alloy wheels, Nardi wood handles, stainless steel doorsill scuff plates, cruise control, headrest speakers and a power antenna.
* It seems that there is some confusion on whether or not the Brilliant Black was a Special Edition Miata here in the States. THE ILLUSTRATED MAZDA BUYER'S GUIDE, by John Matras, states that this model was an "open order" and not an SE. The '92 Miata brochure, printed 2/92, from Mazda, does not refer to the car anywhere as special or limited. Mazda's '92 auto show mini brochure, pictured the black and tan Miata with the caption "Black Miata Roadster with Package C". On the other hand some owners have reported that their '92 black Miatas have "Special Edition" printed on the window sticker. Marketing ads in Canada refer to this Miata as a Special Edition, but not here in the US. One of the best explanations for all this confusion is that the '92 Brilliant Black was going to be introduced as a Special Edition but then Mazda marketed and sold it as a C package Miata making way for that package to be available in '93 on more colors. It is not my intent to settle this gray area originally created by Mazda.
* (New) A remote trunk release was added to all Miatas as a standard feature.
* (New) A cross brace was added to the underside of the rear suspension.
* (New) Rear window derfroster and headliner for the hardtop.
Spotting Tips
* The '92 Miata looks almost identical to the '90s and '91s, except for a rear cross brace that was added under the car which can be seen if one bends over to view it. Look for a two foot long bar that runs between the rear wheel's suspension. In '93 the Miata's wheel caps and logos changed, so the '92 model is the only year with "Mazda" written on the center caps of the wheels and the nose piece, and a rear subframe brace. '92 Package B Miatas can be spotted by their new power antennas.
* Classic Red
* Mariner Blue
* Crystal White
* Silver Stone Metallic
* Brilliant Black
* Sunburst Yellow('92 only)
Factory Options
* A Package: Power-assisted steering, leather-wrapped steering wheel, aluminum alloy wheels and cassette stereo with anti-theft coding.
* B Package: Package A items plus cruise control, power windows, headrest speakers and a (New) power antenna.
* Removeable hardtop with (New) defroster and headliner (all colors).
* Viscous-type limited-slip differential.
* Automatic transmission.
* Anti-lock brakes (Requires Package B or black Miata).
Comments
* Mazda produced only 1,519 units of the Sunburst Yellow Miata and it was only available with option package A. The yellow 3-coat paint was listed as an extra-cost option for $250.
* Brilliant Black came in two different versions:
o Standard Features: Tan leather seating surfaces, leather-wrapped steering wheel, tan convertible top, aluminum alloy wheels, cassette stereo, power windows and power steering.
o Optional Features: Package C (available only with Brilliant Black), BBS alloy wheels, Nardi wood handles, stainless steel doorsill scuff plates, cruise control, headrest speakers and a power antenna.
* It seems that there is some confusion on whether or not the Brilliant Black was a Special Edition Miata here in the States. THE ILLUSTRATED MAZDA BUYER'S GUIDE, by John Matras, states that this model was an "open order" and not an SE. The '92 Miata brochure, printed 2/92, from Mazda, does not refer to the car anywhere as special or limited. Mazda's '92 auto show mini brochure, pictured the black and tan Miata with the caption "Black Miata Roadster with Package C". On the other hand some owners have reported that their '92 black Miatas have "Special Edition" printed on the window sticker. Marketing ads in Canada refer to this Miata as a Special Edition, but not here in the US. One of the best explanations for all this confusion is that the '92 Brilliant Black was going to be introduced as a Special Edition but then Mazda marketed and sold it as a C package Miata making way for that package to be available in '93 on more colors. It is not my intent to settle this gray area originally created by Mazda.
* (New) A remote trunk release was added to all Miatas as a standard feature.
* (New) A cross brace was added to the underside of the rear suspension.
* (New) Rear window derfroster and headliner for the hardtop.
Spotting Tips
* The '92 Miata looks almost identical to the '90s and '91s, except for a rear cross brace that was added under the car which can be seen if one bends over to view it. Look for a two foot long bar that runs between the rear wheel's suspension. In '93 the Miata's wheel caps and logos changed, so the '92 model is the only year with "Mazda" written on the center caps of the wheels and the nose piece, and a rear subframe brace. '92 Package B Miatas can be spotted by their new power antennas.
Colors
* Classic Red
* Mariner Blue
* Crystal White
* Brilliant Black
* Brilliant Black w/red interior(Limited Edition)
Factory Options
* A Package: (New) Power mirrors, power-assisted steering, leather-wrapped steering wheel, aluminum alloy wheels, and headrest speakers (moved from package B to package A).
* B Package: Package A items plus cruise control, power windows, and a power antenna.
* (New) C Package: B package items, plus tan interior with leather seating surfaces and tan vinyl top. (All colors except Mariner Blue).
* (New) Mazda Sensory Sound System (MSSS) with compact disc player. This radio is referred to by some enthusiasts as the "silver-faced radio". (requires package B or C)
* Removeable hardtop with defroster and headliner.
* Viscous-type limited-slip differential.
* Automatic transmission.
* Anti-lock brakes (Requires Package B or C).
* Limited Edition (Brilliant Black with red interior only):
Introduced in the spring of '93, this limited edition (LE) Miata includes B package items plus, BBS wheels, red interior,carpet and floor mats, leather seats, a rear lip-type spoiler, rear lower skirt, front air dam, doorsill plates, Nardi shifter, a key fob, Bilstein shocks, red vinyl tonneau cover, anti-lock brakes, Mazda Sensory Sound System (MSSS) with compact disc player and polished door speaker covers that are shaped like a Harley Davidson's gas tank. Other options include a removeable hardtop and 4-speed automatic transmission. Only 1,500 '93 LEs were sold in the US.
Comments
* Silver Stone Metallic discontinued. This was the first production color discontinued for the Miata. Approximately 18,000 silver Miatas were sold in the US.
* Cassette stereo with anti-theft coding and a cupholder that could take the place of the center console ashtray became a standard feature for all Miata models.
* Mazda changed its logo on the Miata from the "Mazda" print to a new "Diamond in a Circle" logo. The new logo appeared on the front nose, and center cap of both the alloy and steel wheels.
* The word "Mazda" on the center of the steering wheel was changed to "SRS Airbag".
Spotting Tips
* The '93 Miata is the easiest production year to recognize. The new Mazda logo on the removeable center caps of the alloy wheels ended up being the only year to have that logo due to the change of the entire wheel the following year.
* Classic Red
* Mariner Blue
* Crystal White
* Brilliant Black
* Brilliant Black w/red interior(Limited Edition)
Factory Options
* A Package: (New) Power mirrors, power-assisted steering, leather-wrapped steering wheel, aluminum alloy wheels, and headrest speakers (moved from package B to package A).
* B Package: Package A items plus cruise control, power windows, and a power antenna.
* (New) C Package: B package items, plus tan interior with leather seating surfaces and tan vinyl top. (All colors except Mariner Blue).
* (New) Mazda Sensory Sound System (MSSS) with compact disc player. This radio is referred to by some enthusiasts as the "silver-faced radio". (requires package B or C)
* Removeable hardtop with defroster and headliner.
* Viscous-type limited-slip differential.
* Automatic transmission.
* Anti-lock brakes (Requires Package B or C).
* Limited Edition (Brilliant Black with red interior only):
Introduced in the spring of '93, this limited edition (LE) Miata includes B package items plus, BBS wheels, red interior,carpet and floor mats, leather seats, a rear lip-type spoiler, rear lower skirt, front air dam, doorsill plates, Nardi shifter, a key fob, Bilstein shocks, red vinyl tonneau cover, anti-lock brakes, Mazda Sensory Sound System (MSSS) with compact disc player and polished door speaker covers that are shaped like a Harley Davidson's gas tank. Other options include a removeable hardtop and 4-speed automatic transmission. Only 1,500 '93 LEs were sold in the US.
Comments
* Silver Stone Metallic discontinued. This was the first production color discontinued for the Miata. Approximately 18,000 silver Miatas were sold in the US.
* Cassette stereo with anti-theft coding and a cupholder that could take the place of the center console ashtray became a standard feature for all Miata models.
* Mazda changed its logo on the Miata from the "Mazda" print to a new "Diamond in a Circle" logo. The new logo appeared on the front nose, and center cap of both the alloy and steel wheels.
* The word "Mazda" on the center of the steering wheel was changed to "SRS Airbag".
Spotting Tips
* The '93 Miata is the easiest production year to recognize. The new Mazda logo on the removeable center caps of the alloy wheels ended up being the only year to have that logo due to the change of the entire wheel the following year.
Colors
* Classic Red
* White
* Laguna Blue Metallic
* Brilliant Black
* Montego Blue Mica (M Edition only)
Factory Options
* A Package: (New) Torsen limited slip differential (manual transmission only), power-assisted steering, leather-wrapped steering wheel, power mirrors, aluminum alloy wheels and headrest speakers.
* B Package: Package A items plus cruise control, power windows and power antenna.
* C Package: (All colors) B package items, plus tan interior with leather seating surfaces and tan vinyl top.
* R Package (New Mid-year intro): Sport suspension with Bilstein shock absorbers, rear spoiler, front air dam, rear skirt, aluminum alloy wheels and Torsen limited-slip differential (not available with automatic or other option packages).
* Removeable hardtop with defroster.
* Automatic Transmission with (New) lockup torque converter, and Hold mode.
* Anti-lock brakes (requires Package A, B or C).
* M Edition (Montego Blue Mica only):
This special Miata includes Montego Blue Mica paint, Package C items plus polished alloy wheels, Nardi wood shift knob, wood parking-brake grip, logo floor mats and special M Edition key fob and interior/exterior badges. Other options include a removeable hardtop, anti-lock brakes and a 4-speed automatic transmission. Approximately 3,000 '94 M Editions were sold in the US.
Comments
* The following items were (New)or redesigned for the '94 Miata:
o 1.8 liter engine / 128 horsepower
o Alloy wheels redesigned and larger (14x6)
o Passenger side airbag
o Cross brace behind seats
o Bigger brakes (10 inch front disc & 9.9 inch rear disc)
o Redesigned dash
o Bigger gas tank (12.7 gal)
o Fully lined trunk
o Map pockets added to doors
o Seat fabric changed
o Raised lettering on engine cam cover
o Flash to pass
o Red lettering for rear Miata badge
o Seatbelt anchor located on seat
o C package door panel tops are black
o Torsen limited-slip differential (not availble on automatics or base models)
* The following items were discontinued for the '94 Miata:
o Arm rest mounted on doors
o Driver's side interior light
o Removeable door speaker covers
* Crystal White was changed in appearance and renamed simply "White".
* Mariner Blue discontinued (the total sold in the US is still being researched).
* Mazda's R package was a $1,500 option package that became very popular with the showroom stock racers. Mazda estimated that only 500 were built for the '94 model year. Other options available for R package equiped Miatas was a removeable hardtop and air conditioning.
* A factory racing stripe kit, designed by Mark Jordan, was availble in white and pearl blue, and their use was encouraged for the R package Miatas.
* The introduction of the M Edition was marketing genius on the part of Mazda. They did not have to adhere to automotive industry definitions of Limited Edition or Special Edition; they created their "own" edition which became just as coveted by Miata enthusiasts. The polished alloy wheels, offered on the '94 M Edition, were never again equipped on a US Miata from the factory.
Spotting tips
* '94 Miatas have all the new changes such as wheels and dual airbags which distinguish them from previous years. The easiest way to tell them apart from later years is to look for the two-piece folding sunvisors that were changed in '95 to a one-piece version.
* Classic Red
* White
* Laguna Blue Metallic
* Brilliant Black
* Montego Blue Mica (M Edition only)
Factory Options
* A Package: (New) Torsen limited slip differential (manual transmission only), power-assisted steering, leather-wrapped steering wheel, power mirrors, aluminum alloy wheels and headrest speakers.
* B Package: Package A items plus cruise control, power windows and power antenna.
* C Package: (All colors) B package items, plus tan interior with leather seating surfaces and tan vinyl top.
* R Package (New Mid-year intro): Sport suspension with Bilstein shock absorbers, rear spoiler, front air dam, rear skirt, aluminum alloy wheels and Torsen limited-slip differential (not available with automatic or other option packages).
* Removeable hardtop with defroster.
* Automatic Transmission with (New) lockup torque converter, and Hold mode.
* Anti-lock brakes (requires Package A, B or C).
* M Edition (Montego Blue Mica only):
This special Miata includes Montego Blue Mica paint, Package C items plus polished alloy wheels, Nardi wood shift knob, wood parking-brake grip, logo floor mats and special M Edition key fob and interior/exterior badges. Other options include a removeable hardtop, anti-lock brakes and a 4-speed automatic transmission. Approximately 3,000 '94 M Editions were sold in the US.
Comments
* The following items were (New)or redesigned for the '94 Miata:
o 1.8 liter engine / 128 horsepower
o Alloy wheels redesigned and larger (14x6)
o Passenger side airbag
o Cross brace behind seats
o Bigger brakes (10 inch front disc & 9.9 inch rear disc)
o Redesigned dash
o Bigger gas tank (12.7 gal)
o Fully lined trunk
o Map pockets added to doors
o Seat fabric changed
o Raised lettering on engine cam cover
o Flash to pass
o Red lettering for rear Miata badge
o Seatbelt anchor located on seat
o C package door panel tops are black
o Torsen limited-slip differential (not availble on automatics or base models)
* The following items were discontinued for the '94 Miata:
o Arm rest mounted on doors
o Driver's side interior light
o Removeable door speaker covers
* Crystal White was changed in appearance and renamed simply "White".
* Mariner Blue discontinued (the total sold in the US is still being researched).
* Mazda's R package was a $1,500 option package that became very popular with the showroom stock racers. Mazda estimated that only 500 were built for the '94 model year. Other options available for R package equiped Miatas was a removeable hardtop and air conditioning.
* A factory racing stripe kit, designed by Mark Jordan, was availble in white and pearl blue, and their use was encouraged for the R package Miatas.
* The introduction of the M Edition was marketing genius on the part of Mazda. They did not have to adhere to automotive industry definitions of Limited Edition or Special Edition; they created their "own" edition which became just as coveted by Miata enthusiasts. The polished alloy wheels, offered on the '94 M Edition, were never again equipped on a US Miata from the factory.
Spotting tips
* '94 Miatas have all the new changes such as wheels and dual airbags which distinguish them from previous years. The easiest way to tell them apart from later years is to look for the two-piece folding sunvisors that were changed in '95 to a one-piece version.
Colors
* Classic Red
* White
* Laguna Blue Metallic
* Brilliant Black
* Montego Blue Mica
* Merlot Mica (M Edition only)
Factory Options
(New) Packages A, B and C changed to the following:
* Popular Equipment Package: Power-assisted steering, leather-wrapped steering wheel, power mirrors, aluminum alloy wheels, Torsen limited-slip differential (manual transmission only), headrest speakers, cruise control, power windows and automatic power antenna.
* Leather Package: Popular Equipment Package items, plus tan interior with leather seating surfaces and tan vinyl top.
* R Package: Sport suspension with Bilstein shocks, rear spoiler, front air dam, rear skirt, aluminum alloy wheels and Tornsen limited-slip differential (not available with automatic, Montego Blue Mica paint or other option packages).
* Removeable hardtop with defroster.
* Automatic transmission with lockup torque converter and Hold mode.
* Anti-lock brakes (slight redesign)
* Mazda Sensory Sound System.
* M Edition (Merlot Mica only):
o This special Miata includes 15 inch BBS Wheels with P195/50R15 high-performance tires, tan vinyl convertible top, tan leather-trimmed low-back seats with Miata logo embroidered on seatbacks, air conditioning, power windows, mirrors and antenna, cruise control and leather wrapped steering wheel, compact disc player and four stereo speakers, anti-lock brake system, Torsen limited-slip differential, cut-pile carpeting, leather Nardi shift knob, M Edition exterior badges, doorsill plates and floor mats and M Edition gift set (key fob, lapel pin and badge). Other options include a removeable hardtop and 4-speed automatic transmission. Approximately 3,500 '95 M Editions were sold in the US.
Comments
* Packages A and B were combined to make the Popular Equipment Package (PEP). This made for a steep price difference from the base model to the PEP.
* Sunvisors were changed from two-piece folding type to a one-piece rigid type. The new type of visor required that it be moved out of the way while latching/unlatching the top, yet it offered better blocking of the sun while driving.
* Mazda discontinued the use of numbers (0-90) on the oil pressure gauge in exchange for just L (low) and H (high).
Spotting tips
* One-piece sun visors means it is not a '94 and if the rear view mirror is mounted on the header bow and not the windshield ('96), then it is a '95.
* Classic Red
* White
* Laguna Blue Metallic
* Brilliant Black
* Montego Blue Mica
* Merlot Mica (M Edition only)
Factory Options
(New) Packages A, B and C changed to the following:
* Popular Equipment Package: Power-assisted steering, leather-wrapped steering wheel, power mirrors, aluminum alloy wheels, Torsen limited-slip differential (manual transmission only), headrest speakers, cruise control, power windows and automatic power antenna.
* Leather Package: Popular Equipment Package items, plus tan interior with leather seating surfaces and tan vinyl top.
* R Package: Sport suspension with Bilstein shocks, rear spoiler, front air dam, rear skirt, aluminum alloy wheels and Tornsen limited-slip differential (not available with automatic, Montego Blue Mica paint or other option packages).
* Removeable hardtop with defroster.
* Automatic transmission with lockup torque converter and Hold mode.
* Anti-lock brakes (slight redesign)
* Mazda Sensory Sound System.
* M Edition (Merlot Mica only):
o This special Miata includes 15 inch BBS Wheels with P195/50R15 high-performance tires, tan vinyl convertible top, tan leather-trimmed low-back seats with Miata logo embroidered on seatbacks, air conditioning, power windows, mirrors and antenna, cruise control and leather wrapped steering wheel, compact disc player and four stereo speakers, anti-lock brake system, Torsen limited-slip differential, cut-pile carpeting, leather Nardi shift knob, M Edition exterior badges, doorsill plates and floor mats and M Edition gift set (key fob, lapel pin and badge). Other options include a removeable hardtop and 4-speed automatic transmission. Approximately 3,500 '95 M Editions were sold in the US.
Comments
* Packages A and B were combined to make the Popular Equipment Package (PEP). This made for a steep price difference from the base model to the PEP.
* Sunvisors were changed from two-piece folding type to a one-piece rigid type. The new type of visor required that it be moved out of the way while latching/unlatching the top, yet it offered better blocking of the sun while driving.
* Mazda discontinued the use of numbers (0-90) on the oil pressure gauge in exchange for just L (low) and H (high).
Spotting tips
* One-piece sun visors means it is not a '94 and if the rear view mirror is mounted on the header bow and not the windshield ('96), then it is a '95.
Colors
* Classic Red
* White
* Brilliant Black
* Montego Blue Mica
* Starlight Mica (M Edition only)
Factory Options
* (New) Power Steering Package: Power-assisted Steering and wheel trim rings.
* Popular Equipment Package: (New) Rear Subframe bracerod (listed with this package because its use was discontinued as a standard feature), power-assisted steering, leather wrapped steering-wheel, power mirrors, aluminum alloy wheels with locks, Torsen limited-slip differential (requires manual transmission) , headrest speakers, cruise control, power windows and power antenna.
* Leather Package: Popular Equipment Package items, plus tan interior with leather seating surfaces and tan vinyl top.
* R Package (requires manual transmission): Sport suspension with Bilstein shock absorbers, rear spoiler, front air dam, rear skirt, alloy wheels with locks and Torsen limited slip differential and rear subframe bracerods (not available with automatic or other option packages).
* Removeable hardtop with defroster.
* Automatic transmission.
* Anti-lock brakes.
* (New) Mazda Premium Sound System (minor name and appearance change).
* M Edition (Starlight Mica only):
o This special Miata includes Starlight Mica paint, 15 inch five-spoke alloy wheels, tan interior and tan vinyl top, remote keyless entry system with alarm, performance tires P195/50R15, Torsen limited-slip differential, Miata logo embroidered in blue on seatback, Nardi wood shift knob, wood parking brake handle, air conditioning, M edition door sill plates, Mazda Premium Sound System with CD player and headrest speakers, M edition logo on the tachometer, M edition floor mats and commemorative key chain, lapel pin and badge. Other options available are anti-lock brakes, a removeable hardtop and automatic transmission. This M edition was only produced for 4 months with a total production of 2,968.
Comments
* Laguna Blue Metallic discontinued - total production: 2,359
o '94 total production: 1,797
+ '94 C packages: 341
o '95 total production: 562
+ '95 Leather packages: 122
* The following items were New or redesinged for the '96 Miata:
o Trunk light
o Interior dome light
o Black hazard light button
o Rear view mirror mounted on windshield
o Horsepower increase to 133
o OBD II system
o Door panel mounted arm rest returned as a standard feature
o Wire mesh door speaker covers
o Panasonic AM/FM cassette stereo (#1273) with built-in CD unit controls
o Panasonic in-dash CD player, only controlled by new (#1273) radio
o Storage bin below new (#1273) radio is larger and includes a front lip
o Cut-pile carpeting
* The following items were discontinued for the '96 Miata
o Map pockets for models that have manual windows
o Passenger side interior light is gone but the indentation for its mounting remains in the dash
o Glove box lining
o Mazda logo from the center caps of the base model steel wheel
* Not all '96 Miatas got the new radios and cut-pile carpeting. It is most likely that the old radios and carpet were installed until Mazda's supply ran out.
Spotting tips
* This was the only year to have the rear view mirror attached to the windshield and door panels with out the extra padded area, that was added in '97.
* Classic Red
* White
* Brilliant Black
* Montego Blue Mica
* Starlight Mica (M Edition only)
Factory Options
* (New) Power Steering Package: Power-assisted Steering and wheel trim rings.
* Popular Equipment Package: (New) Rear Subframe bracerod (listed with this package because its use was discontinued as a standard feature), power-assisted steering, leather wrapped steering-wheel, power mirrors, aluminum alloy wheels with locks, Torsen limited-slip differential (requires manual transmission) , headrest speakers, cruise control, power windows and power antenna.
* Leather Package: Popular Equipment Package items, plus tan interior with leather seating surfaces and tan vinyl top.
* R Package (requires manual transmission): Sport suspension with Bilstein shock absorbers, rear spoiler, front air dam, rear skirt, alloy wheels with locks and Torsen limited slip differential and rear subframe bracerods (not available with automatic or other option packages).
* Removeable hardtop with defroster.
* Automatic transmission.
* Anti-lock brakes.
* (New) Mazda Premium Sound System (minor name and appearance change).
* M Edition (Starlight Mica only):
o This special Miata includes Starlight Mica paint, 15 inch five-spoke alloy wheels, tan interior and tan vinyl top, remote keyless entry system with alarm, performance tires P195/50R15, Torsen limited-slip differential, Miata logo embroidered in blue on seatback, Nardi wood shift knob, wood parking brake handle, air conditioning, M edition door sill plates, Mazda Premium Sound System with CD player and headrest speakers, M edition logo on the tachometer, M edition floor mats and commemorative key chain, lapel pin and badge. Other options available are anti-lock brakes, a removeable hardtop and automatic transmission. This M edition was only produced for 4 months with a total production of 2,968.
Comments
* Laguna Blue Metallic discontinued - total production: 2,359
o '94 total production: 1,797
+ '94 C packages: 341
o '95 total production: 562
+ '95 Leather packages: 122
* The following items were New or redesinged for the '96 Miata:
o Trunk light
o Interior dome light
o Black hazard light button
o Rear view mirror mounted on windshield
o Horsepower increase to 133
o OBD II system
o Door panel mounted arm rest returned as a standard feature
o Wire mesh door speaker covers
o Panasonic AM/FM cassette stereo (#1273) with built-in CD unit controls
o Panasonic in-dash CD player, only controlled by new (#1273) radio
o Storage bin below new (#1273) radio is larger and includes a front lip
o Cut-pile carpeting
* The following items were discontinued for the '96 Miata
o Map pockets for models that have manual windows
o Passenger side interior light is gone but the indentation for its mounting remains in the dash
o Glove box lining
o Mazda logo from the center caps of the base model steel wheel
* Not all '96 Miatas got the new radios and cut-pile carpeting. It is most likely that the old radios and carpet were installed until Mazda's supply ran out.
Spotting tips
* This was the only year to have the rear view mirror attached to the windshield and door panels with out the extra padded area, that was added in '97.
Colors
* Classic Red
* White
* Brilliant Black
* Montego Blue Mica
* Marina Green Mica (M Edition only)
* Twilight Blue (Limited Edition only)
Factory Options
* Power Steering Package: Power-assisted steering and wheel trim rings.
* (New) Touring Package: Power steering, leather-wrapped steering wheel, power windows, power mirrors, aluminum alloy wheels with locks and door map pockets.
* Popular Equipment Package: Touring Package items, plus Torsen limited-slip (manual transmission only), rear subframe brace rods, headrest speakers, cruise control and power antenna.
* Leather Package: Popular Equipment Package items, plus tan interior with leather seating surfaces and tan vinyl top.
* R Package: Sport suspension with Bilstein shock absorbers, rear spoiler, front air dam, rear skirt, alloy wheels with locks, Torsen limited slip differential and rear subframe bracerod (not available with automatic, Montego Blue Mica or other option packages).
* Removeable hardtop with defroster.
* Automatic transmission with lockup torque converter and Hold mode.
* Anit-lock brakes.
* Mazda Premium Sound System with compact disc player.
* M Edition (Marina Green Mica only)
o This special Miata includes Marina Green Mica paint,15 inch polished 6-spoke alloy wheels with P195/50r15 high performance tires, tan interior and tan vinyl top, Nardi wood shift knob, wood parking brake handle, air conditioning, Torsen limited-slip differntial Mazda Premium Sound System with CD player and headrest speakers, M Edition exterior badges, doorsill plates, floor mats and M Edition logo on seatbacks and tachometer. This car also comes with the M Edition gift set which includes a pen, key fob and lapel pin. Other options include a removeable hardtop, automatic transmission and anti-lock brakes. This M Edition was only produced for4 months with a total production of around 3,000 cars for the US.
* STO Limited Edition (Twilight Blue only)
o The "Special Touring Option", which was nicked name "Still The One " by enthusiast, includes Twilight Blue paint, the Leather package items plus 15 inch Enkei alloy wheels, stainless steel scuff plates, CD player, rear lip-type spoiler and a Nardi shift knob. This car also comes with special STO badging on the interior and floormats. Other options include a removeable hardtop, automatic transmission and anti-lock brakes. The STO Limited Edition was only produced between May and July of '97 with only 1500 numbered units having been built.
Comments
* The following items were (New) for the '97 Miata:
o Door panel changed on all packages to now include a padded area near the driver's and passenger's shoulder area.
* The following items were changed or discontinued for '97:
o In-dash cigarette lighter becomes dealer option. All Miatas now come with a plastic plug to fill the power port.
Spotting Tips
* The '97 Miatas are the only year, prior to the new body style, that have door pannels with a padded area on the upper rear of the panel.
* Classic Red
* White
* Brilliant Black
* Montego Blue Mica
* Marina Green Mica (M Edition only)
* Twilight Blue (Limited Edition only)
Factory Options
* Power Steering Package: Power-assisted steering and wheel trim rings.
* (New) Touring Package: Power steering, leather-wrapped steering wheel, power windows, power mirrors, aluminum alloy wheels with locks and door map pockets.
* Popular Equipment Package: Touring Package items, plus Torsen limited-slip (manual transmission only), rear subframe brace rods, headrest speakers, cruise control and power antenna.
* Leather Package: Popular Equipment Package items, plus tan interior with leather seating surfaces and tan vinyl top.
* R Package: Sport suspension with Bilstein shock absorbers, rear spoiler, front air dam, rear skirt, alloy wheels with locks, Torsen limited slip differential and rear subframe bracerod (not available with automatic, Montego Blue Mica or other option packages).
* Removeable hardtop with defroster.
* Automatic transmission with lockup torque converter and Hold mode.
* Anit-lock brakes.
* Mazda Premium Sound System with compact disc player.
* M Edition (Marina Green Mica only)
o This special Miata includes Marina Green Mica paint,15 inch polished 6-spoke alloy wheels with P195/50r15 high performance tires, tan interior and tan vinyl top, Nardi wood shift knob, wood parking brake handle, air conditioning, Torsen limited-slip differntial Mazda Premium Sound System with CD player and headrest speakers, M Edition exterior badges, doorsill plates, floor mats and M Edition logo on seatbacks and tachometer. This car also comes with the M Edition gift set which includes a pen, key fob and lapel pin. Other options include a removeable hardtop, automatic transmission and anti-lock brakes. This M Edition was only produced for4 months with a total production of around 3,000 cars for the US.
* STO Limited Edition (Twilight Blue only)
o The "Special Touring Option", which was nicked name "Still The One " by enthusiast, includes Twilight Blue paint, the Leather package items plus 15 inch Enkei alloy wheels, stainless steel scuff plates, CD player, rear lip-type spoiler and a Nardi shift knob. This car also comes with special STO badging on the interior and floormats. Other options include a removeable hardtop, automatic transmission and anti-lock brakes. The STO Limited Edition was only produced between May and July of '97 with only 1500 numbered units having been built.
Comments
* The following items were (New) for the '97 Miata:
o Door panel changed on all packages to now include a padded area near the driver's and passenger's shoulder area.
* The following items were changed or discontinued for '97:
o In-dash cigarette lighter becomes dealer option. All Miatas now come with a plastic plug to fill the power port.
Spotting Tips
* The '97 Miatas are the only year, prior to the new body style, that have door pannels with a padded area on the upper rear of the panel.
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