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Used 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata Consumer Reviews

4.9 out of 5 stars
34 reviews

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4.75 out of 5 stars

After owning it for 20 years, still a great car!

wmshub, 01/27/2011
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
38 of 38 people found this review helpful

In 1991, fresh out of college, I bought a Miata. I figured that I may be married with kids when I buy my next car, so this was my one chance to buy an impractical sportscar. I test drove a bunch, the Miata wasn't the fastest but it was easily the most fun to drive, so that was that. It's been a great car! Not only has it been a lot of fun, with great handling and a peppy feel, but it's been incredibly reliable. Other than regular maintenance, the only problem has been a replacement of the clutch cylinders. Now here I am, 20 years later, this is still the only car I've ever owned and it's running strong.

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5 out of 5 stars

Best Car I've ever owned.

mx5mama, 03/09/2002
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
17 of 17 people found this review helpful

This is an extremely easy car to work on. I am a woman with no mechanical experience. I've done all my own repair work. It is a blast to drive, very reliable. Tons of accessories you can buy, and Miata clubs everywhere. It's kindof like a little cult.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Love of my Life :o))

Becca, 07/07/2006
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata Special 2dr Convertible
15 of 15 people found this review helpful

Hubby presented this little hummer to me 16 years ago and I have loved it ever since. I am always getting praise and nice comments from people everywhere I go. It costs $7 to fill it up and I can go almost forever...whoooee! I had to buy some Beach Boy CD's when I first got it because no rock 'n roll music was capable of expressing or understanding my feelings when I "gaaazoom" down the highway with my hair blowing about wildly. It's a very dependable car and amazingly gutsy. With 26,800 miles on it, the most I have needed on it was oil changes, tire rotated, new tires, lubes, and antifreeze system cleanout. This is one of my greatest cars-too bad we have so many icy roads where we live.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

A Dandy Special Edition

Charles Moss, 10/25/2005
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata Special 2dr Convertible
11 of 11 people found this review helpful

This car is fun to drive at any age; I am now seventy and still having a ball with it. It is better to own this car when you live in non-snowy climates. It is a lot of car for the buck.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Fantastic car that is very fun to drive.

face60, 08/01/2014
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
18 of 19 people found this review helpful

I purchased my 91 Miata MX5 a year ago with 89,000 miles on it. My intentions where to restore the car within a reasonable budget and this has been accomplished. I had new front custom bumper added with new driver side fender, and trim mold plate in the rear replaced. I also had new timing belt, water pump, spark plugs, spark plug wires, front and rear axle, cv joints, upper and lower bearings replaced, radiator flushed, and painted As well as a new canvas soft top, Bluetooth radio, new seats and interior trim replaced. My total with the purchase of the vehicle came to $3,800 give or take a few dollars. The car is now mechanically and aesthetically sound for a very reasonable amount.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Best kept secret in sports cars

10 year+ owner, 04/26/2002
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
6 of 6 people found this review helpful

This is the best car I’ve ever had. It’s reliable, fun to drive and inexpensive. Over 10 years of virtually trouble-free fun and it runs and looks like the day I bought it. I still get over 30 mpg around town! Except for some paint chips from rocks kicked up by others the appearance is perfect. I’ve got a hardtop I use all winter, so the original convertible top is still good. And a dealer installed ground effects package makes it look like the 2000+ versions. Original clutch and exhaust are still in good shape.

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5 out of 5 stars

Money well spent So much Fun to Drive!

Sean, 10/12/2006
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
6 of 6 people found this review helpful

Now I know why the other reviews were so high. I just bought a 91 Miata 2 weeks ago It was in perfect condition It has 81k miles average of about 5500 miles per year. I paid $3800. It is so fun to drive and handles great. Just like driving a go-cart. The inside and outside of the car looks new. It had new tires and rims put on. The timing belts done. New top with glass window. Momo steering wheel. Short shifter. I plan on keeping this car for awhile. I constantly want to drive somewhere. My last car was a Benz C220 and I don't miss it at all.

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4 out of 5 stars

Little Red Rooster

Lee F. Philippi, 03/24/2017
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata Special 2dr Convertible
6 of 6 people found this review helpful

These cars will run forever with the proper care and feeding. Not real fast or comfortable but best driving experience you will find for the price. Dealer service not real great, suggest you find a shop that has history with Import cars and has reasonable hourly rates. (75-85 per hour) Found the car a year ago sitting under a pine tree in someones front yard. Had been there for about 2 years but had been started and run on occasion. I had owned one about 30 years ago and loved it so there was no question as to if I was going to buy it. Got the owner down to $1200 and away I went. Car has 184,000 miles on it which is roughly 7,500 miles a year. I've put about $4,000 in parts ie: clutch, shocks, driveshaft and u-joints etc. So for just about $6K I've got a true classic roadster and... it's paid for

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
3 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Zip Car

RodneyZ, 05/01/2004
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
5 of 5 people found this review helpful

86K miles. It burns no oil at all, gets real world commuting 30 miles mpg & I whole heartedly trust its reliability. Still in great shape. I've test driven many new 2004 sports cars but find that this used Miata honestly handles better. It definitely lacks the horsepower, but it makes it up because it is so balanced and exceptionally lighter (~2,100 pounds). Nothing beats its rear wheel drive with 50:50 weight distribution on double-wishbones on all four corners! The pedal placement is located very well for "heal and toe" down shifts. I am always amused how much FUN I have driving it, every single time. It is for drivers "in the know"...

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5 out of 5 stars

Nice Sport Car!

Angelo, 10/18/2008
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

Bought this Miata with 72k miles to drive around instead of my gas guzzling truck. Wow, this little car is fun! Great performer, solid, almost bullet proof. I did so minor stuff like changing the tires, changing the original shocks, a new valve cover gasket and a new rubber boot for the shifter. These were all normal maintenance items and I have to say that the car runs like new. I previously owned a 2004 Honda S2000 and that was one nice roadster. This Miata does not fall too behind the S2000 and it only cost me $4.000. What a deal, it is so much fun, I am keeping it!

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5 out of 5 stars

A Blast!

Novot, 11/19/2002
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

The MX-5 spawned a true revolution in the automotive world, and has since gone on to become the best selling 2 seater ever -- and no wonder! This car is ridiculously fun to drive. You point it, and it goes! A tiny bit of driver induced oversteer will make it spin and zip right where you want it to go. Great fuel economy and superb reliability -- even in mine, which was burning a tiny bit of oil more than a year and a half ago when I first got it. Despite the abuse I've heaped upon it, it is still running strong.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

My best car ever

PatrickH, 11/23/2002
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

I have owned my 91 Miata since new and 183,000 miles later its still running like a dream. In all that time the only non maintenance items it has needed are some new plug leads, a couple of oil seals on the front of engine and the exhaust heatshield rebalanced. It still burns no oil. Handling has always been great and I recently added some Michelin Pilots which made it even better. Running costs are phenominally low. Great gas mileage, brakes and tires last for ever.

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5 out of 5 stars

Love it!

Miata lover, 04/25/2003
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
4 of 4 people found this review helpful

Classic design, incredible handling, reliable, inexpensive - the Miata is everything that the MG tried to be and should have been. Everything on the car is been designed superbly, and Mazda hasn't cut any corners in the build quality. The car is perfect for the person without any kids! The reviews I've read actually prefer the Miata to it's higher-powered rivals, such as the Z-3 and RX-7, because of its low weight - and the fun factor!

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4.75 out of 5 stars

Used Miata's, Cheap & Reliable FUN!!

CatiaBear, 06/30/2002
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

In a past relationship I found myself always making excuses to take HER car (an early '90s Miata) on dates. Sometimes I had MUCH more fun with the car than with the girlfriend!! She is long gone, & I really began to miss.....THE MIATA!! BUT I'm not one who fears a commitment, so I finally bought an early model Miata of my own!! :-) I have owned many sports cars in the past (most costing MUCH more), but I can't remember having this much fun for the buck!! My '91 white Roadster has only 74K miles on it, but while shopping for this one I saw many others with 150K to 200K miles that were still running strong. GREAT CARS!! "Zoom, zoom, zoom!!" -Bear-

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5 out of 5 stars

Just purchased this car on 2-25-03

emmerson@charter.net, 03/01/2003
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

I just purchased this car on 2-25-03 and from what I've driven it, I know that it will stay with me for some time to come. It has 126,418 miles on it, but from looking at the reviews, it looks like I'll be using this car from some time to come! Although it is a '91, it has a new top and paint job, which makes it really appealing to look at. The handling is GREAT...point and go! I cannot think on any way to improve on the fun. I'm looking at finding a MIATA club here in Ringgold, Georgia--help. I know I made a good purchase for my $4200.00 bucks.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

91 miata

shep, 06/09/2005
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

Was purchased in 94 for 4k. Had 122k miles. Great fun to drive with the top up or down. Started in the winter with no problems. Has a great heater and a/c. Standard shift that is smooth and easy. I just change the oil at 3k miles. No repairs needed, except for a new battery. I get 35 miles on the highway. Combined with low depreciation and fun driving, you cant beat it.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

This Car Rocks

redshark, 03/03/2004
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

I purchased this car for under $5k with 97K miles on it. The only major repairs I've had done are a timimg belt and replacing the radiator; I replaced the radiator myself in about 2 hours with parts from the internet, total cost of about $100.00. It has performed well on several long trips, in the snow (we've got a lot of hills in Cincinnati, it's never missed a step), wouldn't hesitate to buy another. I'm looking at larger cars now...but keeping my miata.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

mg revisited

'47 boomer, 05/15/2004
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

The kids are grown. Now it's time for a summer play car. Far better than '67 MG of my past. 1991 red w/ alloy wheels. Bought w/ 52,000 miles. Good looking, fun to drive, seems reliable (tho I've only owned it a short time). Hope to keep this car for many years and give it to my daughter when we're done with it. A blast to drive.

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4.75 out of 5 stars

No regrets

Michael, 10/19/2005
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

This is a great car that has held up great, too. Some fading of paint on the side mirrors, but that's it. Still runs like a champ and has never given me a problem. I'll likely by another one in a few years.

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4.38 out of 5 stars

1991 Miata

faditara, 03/09/2002
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

I bought my Miata as a second car. What a blast! I have driven it over 11k miles in the last 3 months alone. I went cross country in one trip, then went to Key West in another. I have had no problems at all. My only gripe is the all black interior, makes it dull.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Couldn't ask for a better car...

acroduster, 03/28/2002
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
3 of 3 people found this review helpful

Wow! My 12 year old, 236,000 mile Miata is still going strong! I can't believe this little thing - it won't quit running. I drive it HARD every day (full acceleration run at least once per day for 7 years), corners at high speed - the works - it just keeps going. Original alternator and starter! Beat that!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Fun, Fun, Fun

Mike, 02/10/2006
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I purchased this car in Oct. '05 for $4700.00 with only 27,000 miles on the clock. It was in perfect condition having been kept in a garage under a car cover. I did not realize what a great deal I got until I drove it for a while. Plenty of pep and it handles like a dream. The more curves in the road, the better it handles. When I am through with this one, and that may be a long time, I will definitely get another Miata.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Review of my Miata

helena kerfoot, 05/12/2006
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
2 of 2 people found this review helpful

I purchased this car with 8500 miles on it. It has been garage kept in Florida. I only drive it when I come to my home in Florida. I have approximately 27,000 miles on it at this time. I have had new tires put on the car since I have had it and last year put in an 8 year battery. The car was serviced by a garage and it needs to have the electrical system checked, as after their checkup, I no longer am able to play the radio or my tapes. It is used primarily for trips to the grocery store and/or classes that I take once a week.

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5 out of 5 stars

Fun 2 Drive Fast

Big Lake, 09/16/2003
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
3 of 4 people found this review helpful

This car turns more heads then any other car ive driven.

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5 out of 5 stars

God Allow's U-Turns

My Baby, 08/12/2005
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
4 of 7 people found this review helpful

After finally getting the kid's grown, my Miata was my Mother's Day gift from my husband...no car seats allowed. I just love it...she handles well...zips around curves without hesitation...and out-shows those many years younger than her. She made a 400 mile round trip on a little over a half tank of gas (about 6 gallons)...who could ask for more? She's a real head-turner at church, at the kid's schools, in the park, or on the road.

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5 out of 5 stars

My little red ride

Christine Marie, 05/23/2018
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Its quite low to the ground. Overall for a 1991 its a sharp car. I absolutely love everything about it so far. Ive only owned it about 2 weeks but cant get enough of taking it out for a ride

Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
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4 out of 5 stars

91 Miata SE

Bob, 06/01/2018
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata Special 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Very fun car to drive, handles well & comfortable after getting in. It reminds you of the classic British sports cars but without the problems & high maintenance.

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
4 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Unbridled love for 29 years

Retired in Electric Now, 08/13/2020
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

My silver Roadster served me well and took me places never imagined in 1991. Originally hailing from Birmingham, it was never good in Massachusetts or Pennsylvania winters, although I learned to pull out of spins early on. And the silver paint failed to stick to the body, even after dealer repaintings. The ragtop wore out and I replaced with glass window and I had to have replacement power windows. Don’t mistake these comments as dissatisfaction because it was a perfect car! I will always love its roadster melody, the way it always started, the comfort of the seats, the Blaupunkt radio/cassette player in the seat headrest speakers blasting, “The Night Before” and Joni Mitchell “Morning Morgantown” living the dream. With under 77,000 original miles I had to gift it to my great nephew to continue the dream. My follow up car? Tesla Model 3. Silver of course!

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
5 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Timeless roadster

Zoomchey, 10/19/2022
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata Special 2dr Convertible
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I have owned 5 first generation Miatas since 2000. I got the bug when I lived in NC for many years.Stock Miata NA’s aren’t fast cars but in the mountains they handle like they are on rails.My present Miata is a 1991 that I’ve owned for over 10 years and recently got an antique tag for it.It has always been a Florida car from Sarasota. It’s very dependable and presentable but it’s because I’ve always kept up with the maintenance. It is 100% stock and I won’t part with it. My first roadster was a 1959 MGA which was a blast but not the least dependable.I’m 74 and as long as I can get in and out of it, it’s a keeper.

Safety
5 out of 5 stars
Technology
5 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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4.63 out of 5 stars

Owning a Miata

gdevinney, 06/17/2002
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
1 of 3 people found this review helpful

Great fun car to drive. Gets noticed everywhere. Not practical as one's only car.

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5 out of 5 stars

Great little very dependable auto

Dan, 11/26/2021
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Plan on having fun

Safety
2 out of 5 stars
Technology
1 out of 5 stars
Performance
5 out of 5 stars
Interior
5 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
5 out of 5 stars
Value
5 out of 5 stars
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5 out of 5 stars

Fun to drive Everyday

B~Rad, 03/14/2023
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Easy top down driving find a mountain road & Enjoy the awesome handling 32 years of ownership !!!

Safety
4 out of 5 stars
Technology
4 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 out of 5 stars

Show time

Chucky Williams , 09/28/2023
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

Fun to drive, the top is easy to open and close. A little noisy even with the windows up.Good for short trips, not enough room for a long trip.

Safety
3 out of 5 stars
Technology
3 out of 5 stars
Performance
4 out of 5 stars
Interior
4 out of 5 stars
Comfort
3 out of 5 stars
Reliability
4 out of 5 stars
Value
4 out of 5 stars
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4.63 out of 5 stars

miss you

alistair, 03/27/2003
1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Convertible
0 of 1 people found this review helpful

just sold my little red baby, Thank you for years of enjoyment.

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