Used 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata Consumer Reviews
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
After owning it for 20 years, still a great car!
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.
Best Car I've ever owned.
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.
- Base ConvertibleMSRP: $10,500323 mi away
- Base ConvertibleMSRP: $12,999447 mi away
- Base ConvertibleMSRP: $15,500505 mi away
Love of my Life :o))
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.
A Dandy Special Edition
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.
Fantastic car that is very fun to drive.
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.
1992 Sunburst Yellow Miata
I bought my Miata new in '92, and have never been sorry. I did loads of long-distance driving up & down Calif. when working for the state. Later took the car to England for 10 years where it was loads of fun on twisty lanes. Added supercharger, adjustable Konis, & slotted discs all around and it now goes & handles even better. Over 105K miles, and the only thing that has ever failed was a blown heater hose, long ago.
Money well spent So much Fun to Drive!
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.
Motorcycle replacement
I decided to sell my motorcycle due to arthritis and replace it with a convertible. I had thought about buying an affordable classic, i.e. MGB, Triumph Alfa Romeo or Fiat. To cut a long story short I bought a 92 Miata SE in British racing Green with 108K on the clock. The AC had been removed and power steering replaced with non power unit. This car is in its element in narrow twisty country roads. It will out handle almost any other car on the road. It's not all about top speed or 0 to 60 times. It's all about fun to drive and it's not going to cost you and an arm and a leg.
Best kept secret in sports cars
This is the best car Ive ever had. Its 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. Ive 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.
Little Red Rooster
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
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Zip Car
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"...
Nice Sport Car!
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!
I Love This Thing...
Living in Temecula & working in National City ( 70 mile commute ) was killing my Ridgeline, so I bought this with a rebuilt engine. This car is an absolute blast to drive. I'm getting roughly 34 miles to the gallon and am just having so much fun in it. The previous owner had maintained this car as I would, taking care of every detail. I love it so much that i'm debating on selling my Ridgeline & using this as my primary. Possibly a bad idea, but do I really need a car payment for a truck I barely drive now :)
Love it!
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!
A Blast!
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.
Smiles per gallon
This car is, hands down, the best value for the money of any car. The car is bulletproof, the drivetrain is solid and reliable, maintenance is cheap and simple enough to do it yourself. This is my second Miata (first was a 1990). I keep testing the newer ones, thinking I'm going to trade it in, but I always go back to the rawer, lighter early 1990's cars. These cars are a blast to drive around town. You can wind it up, drive like a maniac, and still keep it under 60 and not draw undue attention. They are also super-fun on two lane country roads. If you have a long highway commute, it might not be the best choice, as the highway noise (mostly from other cars) gets tiresome.
My best car ever
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.
mg revisited
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.
Just purchased this car on 2-25-03
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.
91 miata
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.
No regrets
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.
1991 Miata
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.
Couldn't ask for a better car...
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!
This is my Second First Generation Mazda Miata
This is not a fast car. But most definitely a fun car. Theirs limited storage space but what do you expect from a 2 seater. Ive had no issues with the engine or the transmission. obviously buy a Fully Stock Miata. Usually the ones that are all modded are abused. In most cases. Other than that its been 4 years at 130,xxx miles with my miata and the only things ive done was oil change, oil pan gasket, slave cylinder and thats it. And those are pretty cheap. Ive had nothing but good come out of owning a 1990 and a 1992 mazda miata. NO major issues. but sometimes power windows will go out. That happened to both of my miatas.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
This Car Rocks
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.
Used Miata's, Cheap & Reliable FUN!!
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-
Great Car
I purchased Mimi thru a private seller and friend. This is a fun and easy car to drive. Uses very little gas and cranks up like a champion. I love driving it in the late summer, fall. Easy handling, power. Overall a great car
Fun, Fun, Fun
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.
Review of my Miata
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.
Fun 2 Drive Fast
This car turns more heads then any other car ive driven.
God Allow's U-Turns
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.
Timeless roadster
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
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Miata lover :)
I bought my Miata 4 months ago with 92,000 miles on it and fell in love with it right away! It drives & handles great and the gas mileage is outstanding! This car is perfect in every single way!
I have seen the light!!
After owning a driving SUVs for the last 3 years, this car even at 12 years old is abosolutely amazing! It is trendy, I love the newly aquired attention, quick for it's size, AWESOME fuel economy...32mpg on the hwy, and is a joy to drive. Never new these cars handled so well, like it's on rails. Wish I new this a long, long time ago...will drive this car until it won't go anymore.
Zoom Zoom
After 16 years, my Miata is going strong with just regular maintenance. And it's almost at 200,000 miles. Fun to drive, even through Chicago winters with a foot of snow (just stay away from snow-plows!). Summers are great with the top down!
IMHO
This is my third Miata. The '92 has the roughest ride out of the three. I also spend a lot of time finding and securing rattles which was not a problem on the others. 3/4 visibility is nonexistent with the top up. The trunk did leak water. The shifter is notchy and not very smooth. This apparently is common in the early models. Now for the good. This car is over 10 years old and more reliable then my '99 Jeep wrangler. Very fun to drive. Handles great. Convertible. I test drove the z3 and mr2 and still plan on buying a new miata. They are just better cars.
My little red ride
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
- Interior
- Comfort
91 Miata SE
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
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Value
Unbridled love for 29 years
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
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Owning a Miata
Great fun car to drive. Gets noticed everywhere. Not practical as one's only car.
Fun to drive Everyday
Easy top down driving find a mountain road & Enjoy the awesome handling 32 years of ownership !!!
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Show time
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
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
monster
what fun!!!
Fun in the sun!!!!!
This car is sleek fun and exciting and I got all of this just from the test drive back in 92. Ten years later and not a thing has changed. My wife and I use this car as our get-away car now and enjoy the wind blowing through our hair.
Best used car purchase I have ever made!
I bought this car nearly 2 yrs ago as a second vehicle, a toy of sorts for myself. I got it with only 110k miles on it and it was a one owner vehicle. The car had nothing wrong with it, perfect paint, top, and interior. Not even a door ding! I have since put over 15k hard miles on her so far and she just keeps begging for more. I have done nothing but maintenance since I bought her and even my dealer says the car is mechanically perfect. I actually miss driving this car when I am behind the wheel of my 6 wagon, by far the most fun I have ever had behind the wheel! I have no plans to ever sell this car, she is that great!
miata
Great car for someone driving short distances to work (under 25 miles) or a great weekend car. Low maintance car, great gas milage, cheap, a really fun car to drive. Long trips are not recommeded because it will wear you out!
the best reliable fun car i ever had!
I bought this M edition just for fun and sun. I upgraded it with style and i am always amazed of watching people walking around and make the nicest comments. quality, reliability and nice looking is hard to find under the same "roof" and it is what I got.
Miatatrophy
My '92 was bought in 1998 wearing 93.5k miles and donning good exterior cosmetics. In two short years, major and minor components were replaced and the paint/plastic bumpers faded abysmally. However, for a car that is beat on mercilessly, it has held up relatively well. When the abuse element is stading back-to-back with maintenance costs of this roadster, it emerges as a sound purchase that I will drive until the very end.
Excellent Vehicle
Since it's purchase in 2000, this car has been my daily driver and has showed it's reliability time and again. It's made 2 trips from Florida to San Antonio, Texas, many trips from SA to Dallas and back, and constant "hard" driving with little or no problems not related to general maintanence. When I look for a new car, another Miata will be on my list.
'92 Mazda Miata
My '92 (sucessor to a '90 I owned)is an everyday driver (that means through Chicago winters)that now has 90,000 miles on it and is still going strong and I expect it to keep going for 50K more and beyond. I just love this car. Whenever it is time for a new sports car it will be another Miata.