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Used 1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata Consumer Reviews

4.9 out of 5 stars
74 reviews
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5 out of 5 stars

I love my miata

Matt, 09/04/2016
updated 03/12/2018
1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
5 of 5 people found this review helpful

I bought what would be considered to somee as a high milage miata. Ive driven 20,000 miles in the last 4 minths in it...has never needed repairs. I think those people who have less than great luck with these is from improper maintenance or abuse from the owner. These are simple cars that dont need to be tarted up to be desirable automobiles. The only complaint i can think of having is the convertable top, obviously not a mechanical flaw but a poor choice in materials after 26 years in the sun ...or is it? Fuel consumption is low gearing is tight road noise is not as bad as a person would think and although it doesnt have much room for storage you can pack quite a lot inside the car and in the trunk. Ive road tripped with this car a few times and i get about 300 miles a tank ....decent for 11 gallons of gas. I would not hesitate to purchase another first year miata, but since mine is still strong i dont think ill have a need to Update: my thoughts on this car have not changed, ive actually acquired a second miata, so nice i bought it twice

Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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4.38 out of 5 stars

1990 Miata

Micah Berry, 12/02/2002
1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
5 of 5 people found this review helpful

My dad bought this car new in late 1989 during "Miata mania." Car ran like a champ. Great handling car. I bought the car from him with 44K miles. At 60,500, performance decreased noticably. Turns out that I need a new crankshaft. The car has been maintained by J. R. Mills at North Point Mazda in Little Rock for anything above an oil or air filter change. Mazda had a customer assistance program for 90-91 model cars with this problem; however, that is not the case anymore as I was rudely informed by Mazda, Inc. Other than the crankshaft, the crank sensor went at about 30K miles. It uses no oil, and is a blast to drive.

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3.75 out of 5 stars

nice tic-tac

chevegan, 02/26/2004
1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
5 of 5 people found this review helpful

This is my wifes little tic tac, as she lovingly refers to it. Bought it from some guy who had just changed the engine since the crank went out. Very common 1990 problem, however engines are PLENTIFUL especially through japan. Paid 3k with tax and license. Very hard to find one cheaper in as good condition. Handling is top notch and keeps up with more expensive sports coups with ease. One gripe, power, or the lack there of. Suggestion? yes, buy a greddy turbo kit for $1100. It'll add about 40hp and make one HECK of a difference. Engine is bulletproof once crank is fixed and will run 200k miles without breaking a sweat.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Cheap Fun!!

Dan, 01/24/2007
1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

Want a true 2 seater sports car? This is a reliable, fun and desirable car. Great mpg and a lot of car for a little money. If you want a weekend fun car or a practical commuter, this is it. It's best to find one that a kid has not beat to death. Mine has 200K on it and if it were not for the odometer, you would think the engine is new. This is a safe bet for a fun car that is sure to go up in value. Regardless of the retail value...it's hard to find a nice one for under $3K.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Go topless!!

Aronson, 04/02/2002
1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

I bought the car pre-owned with low miles. It was an instant love for me. I love the way it handles and drives. The car is a great escape from any hassles or cares life provides. Bad day at work.. drive the miata.. bills due.. drive the miata! I constantly am looking for the longest and twistiest way home. I also use any excuse to take the top off.

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