Used 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata Consumer Reviews
Used MX-5 Miata for sale
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Only possible car for short people
Kara, 01/11/2010
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata LS 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
21 of 21 people found this review helpful
I'm five foot and have the greatest visibility I've ever had with any car in the Miata. Has strong headlights, amazing steering, quick and easy to put the top down (at a traffic light. The Miata is small, elegant and always smiling. Greatest car ever and would recommend it to anyone who is under 6'2".
Saved my life... best little car
Sherylm, 09/25/2007
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata Shinsen 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
13 of 13 people found this review helpful
I have driven this sweet little car for the last few summers, and enjoyed every minute. Today, I got t-boned on the driver's side by someone running a stop sign, and I'm alive. Really sore, but alive. The outside of the car was really damaged, but the frame protected me well enough, that I can write this review. Not only was she beautiful and fun, but she turned out to be the best car in the most important sense. Thank you.
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata for sale near you
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The biggest go-kart in the world
DDR2, 04/25/2009
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
10 of 10 people found this review helpful
The title sums it up. Extremely agile car and light on its feet, like a go- cart. It's about as roomy as one too. But those who appreciate this car for what it can do won't be concerned about that. Acceleration isn't very strong either but again, if you want straightline acceleration, go buy a musclecar. This car belongs on roads with tight curves. It's easy to drive and own so far. The only improvements would be bigger trunk and more grunt. Otherwise, this is a fine piece of machinery.
My Hobby
RLM, 12/17/2008
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata LS 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I am a suspension and handling addict and this car answers the call and more. I have the six speed with Bilstein shocks and limited slip differential in triple black. For me the car has just the right horse power as I enjoy using the six speed to make the car go rather than just hitting the gas. I enjoy the interaction with the car and the road especially with the top down.
Miata Still Has It...
vtmiller, 12/17/2005
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata Shinsen 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
9 of 10 people found this review helpful
Owned for 2 years and besides my Nissan SE-R 1992 (before they changed body style), this is the most fun car I've owned and perhaps even ridden in. Even my buddy's Porsche 911 (although powerful) doesn't generate the same feel as the Miata roadster. The Shinsen edition color got great reactions (some even asked what kind of car it was - Jaguar?) and there are tons of modifications one can do (under the hood) and styling. I've kept mine pretty stock, but plan on adding turbo next year for some racing pep. Nothing is needed for daily driving, but if you want to zip through the city, park anywhere, and lose stress with windy road driving anytime -- this is the car for you! Love it.
New and fresh indeed
Burt Lauderbaugh, 05/14/2006
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata Shinsen 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Anyone looking for a special used MX-5 should take the time and effort to find the Shinsen Edition, made only in 2003. It draws many looks and inquiries. Great gas mileage also. Close to 30 mpg with no babying at all. Just pure fun.
A joy to drive, but hurts my back
SRS, 03/16/2007
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata LS 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Gets appreciative looks. More elegant and cheerful than recent redesign. Never enjoyed driving more, but chronic back injury (herniated disc) with tiny interior: makes me wonder if I will have to sell. I'm 6'2". Seats are like 90 degrees; no lumbar support. Road can be harsh - avoid potholes, speed bumps. Pebbles make lots of noise. Sound system with road noise -- tinnitus. Right elbow opens cup holder, right knee can't straighten. Fixed wheel position. Visibility only fair with top. Automatic shifter very stiff after starting. Heater, AC, wipers good. Cornering easy, fun. Accelerates well. Top easy to operate. Sound system is good; allows adjustment of midrange. Top latch replaced.
Zoom Zoom
celica_122, 03/20/2007
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata Shinsen 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Cup holders are a hassle. Small interior. But I wanted a roadster and got one. The most fun to drive of any car I have driven. Someone traded a BMW Z3 for a Miata the day I was at the dealership, so what does that tell you? This is (in my opinion) the best roadster you can buy. If I get depressed I just go for a ride in my Shinsen!
Fun but only in the sun
Shinsen, 08/05/2004
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata Shinsen 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Love the looks. Many think it is a exotic at first look. Great car for nice sunday drives. Very fun to drive and gets the looks!!
Great little Roadster in Austin
Mike Brewer, 08/25/2008
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata SE 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 6M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Wanted a great 2 seater roadster and got one. I really like the styling and handling. I like almost everything about the car. Only mods so far are oil pressure sending unit change and added front grille. Lots of fun to drive and great gas mileage.
Slot Car
Candice Paul, 03/03/2016
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata SE 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 6M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
That is what my husband calls this car due to its' handling. It is hugely fun to drive. It hugs the road like nothing else I have driven. Fun and zippy; zoom zoom describes it perfectly. I am 5'2" so the form factor is perfect for me. It feels like it is hugging me as I drive.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
2001 mx-5
robsmx-5, 09/05/2002
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
i really love this car. the new body looks great and it runs great in the city or on hwy trips. yes, its my car of chose for long road trips. the only trouble iv had is a recall on the clutch that was replaced under warrantt because it was chaffing. i only wish that the re-sale value was better. i wanted to buy a new 2002 special edition mx-5 and the dealer would only give me 15K for my car that was 22K less than a year ago!!!!!!!!!!!!
Go for it
Woodio, 06/22/2016
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Look around first to get a feel for what's out there. You will know a nice one when you see it. Look for maintenance records.
- Safety
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
A true motoring Icon
William Boike, 10/15/2016
updated 04/18/2017
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 3 people found this review helpful
This is my 3rd Miata MX-5. I've had a '96, a '99, and now I own a 2003 second generation Miata. Around town it does everything a car is supposed to do. Where it really shines is out on a twisty country road. It is not a 0-60 car but a momentum car. Once you're up to speed there's more than enough power to pull you out of a corner. It's cheap to buy. cheap to own, and 100% reliable. Though most Miatas are driven hard as a sports car should be, the Miata is I believe Mazdas most reliable model. Check out the Miata.net forum. And ask other owners why they like their Miata.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Ruby goes zoom!
SherryP, 09/09/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata LS 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've had this car for less than two weeks and over 1,000 miles on it. I bought the LS 6-spd Garnet Red Mica with Parch Parchment leather and cloth top. It's so impractical and so much fun!
Chi Machine
granadabar, 10/19/2002
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata LS 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I was looking for a used car for about a month, and I was testing different asian sedans, then (for fun) i tested an 2001 red miata. I bought it. Screw a back seat for the kids, thats what the mini van is for. i've had it for two summers and it still gets me going.
Best sports car for the money!
Joe Hone, 10/18/2002
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata LS 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is the best sports car in the world for the money. The handling is fantastic.
brand new
Imantz, 04/21/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata Shinsen 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Have a 1990 base version and was shopping,ie: BMW z-4, Corvette, Nissan 350Z and after comparing value for the dollar the Miata is #1. I wasn't going to buy another since I wanted and can afford most vehicles but the price was too good to pass. Impressions of going from a 1990 base to this is no brainer. More performance and comfort features and build quality looks as good. The plastic molding has definitely improved along with seats. Driving finds a good turn in for cornering and adequate acceleration and braking. Anyone wanting to experience the virtues of open air driving should not pass on these vehicles as they deliver and are dependable!!
Topless Delight
BG, 11/03/2006
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata LS 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is a car made to be driven with the top down. I even drive it topless in cold weather as long as it is a nice sunny day. If it gets chilly I turn on the heater. Put the top up and the car suddenly feels cramped and confined. The Miata handles great and accelerates surprising fast. It also brakes quickly to a stop in a pinch. I am using the Miata to teach my teenagers to drive a 5 speed and it is well suited for that due to its size and easy clutch. I find that the car is at its best on the winding backroads at speeds where you can take in the scenery and enjoy the outdoors. I am not crazy about driving it topless above 70 mph as the wind and noise pick up significantly.
Apparently the only Mazda Miata Lemon
KSM, 03/19/2006
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have a Mazda Miata MX-5 C in Splash Green Mica. Within a few weeks of purchasing this vehicle, I've had hard starts (i.e. sometimes it takes over one minute to start the car and then it starts sluggishly.) I also have gas smells and a major braking issue where rarely the vehicle's engine starts to race the more you brake. The only way to stop the vehicle fully is to turn it off or put it in neutral while braking. Dealership cannot reproduce or fix so now I'm in lemon law court. I'm so disappointed because I did a tremendous amount of research which strongly suggested this car was reliable. It's an absolutely beautiful vehicle but I seem to be the only one stuck with a lemon.
Madza Special Editon
Special Editon, 10/09/2006
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata SE 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 6M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The Car is underpowered, needs at least 150hp. Car looks good, handles excellent and gas mileage. A good buy for the money.
Lovin' Every Minute of It
rongrut, 01/25/2006
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata LS 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
My wife told me it was my time to get the new car, and we have both wanted a Miata since its inception. Absolutely the best car I have ever owned. FUN, FUN, FUN. Went on vacation to the Grand Canyon from Texas (top down almost all the way), got 30 mpg on the average, and that is at 75 most of the time on the highways. But, the best part was the great view from having the top down and the wind in our hair. I drove the whole way and did not get to where I was uncomfortable at all, (5'11- 180). Have had zero problems and don't expect any.
Cure to the midlife crisis
ne28202, 08/15/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata SE 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
For one whom has spent the last fifteen years in station wagons, seats six sedans, and mini-vans, this little machine is the cure to the midlife crisis. The engine purrs, the handling is brisk and it just plain fun. I rate the Miata right up with my YZ 250 dirt bike on the fun meter. Don't waste your time with the automatic. I test drove the 6 speed first for about 20 minutes and then didn't even make it out of the dealer parking lot with the automatic. (Wife will just have to re- learn to drive a stick shift.
Mazda!!!
Yall, 07/16/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata LS 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
its a good car!!!!! I really like it alot. cheap, but good car! Its awsome. Go buy it!!!!!
Some nagging Problems
Hizz, 08/17/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Love this car, but it does have some nagging problems. I had a 96 Secial Edition and was totally problem free. This one has had two recalls in the first 3 months of ownership and a clutch chatter problem that the dealer tells me is "normal". Can't believe that, but they swear it's true.
the convertible to drive
ticofl, 08/26/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
i had my miata for 2 years and i love it even more each time i drive it it does not have alot of power but with a couple of upgrades u can have a fun fast car i recomen this car to anyone that likes convertibles enjoy ZOOM ZOOM
fun car
marcia, 07/24/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
it is a fun car to drive especially with the top down.It could use more speed but it still goes pretty fast.
Classic Sports car in today's Technology
Wen, 08/30/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Back in college I got the itch for classic sports cars driving a Triumph TR4-A. Unfortunately, it meant tightening bolts, oiling squeaks and numerous fixes as the British made car fell apart. Along came Mazda with the Miata having classic lines and european style. The reliability is awsome and the handling is even better than my old Classic. Thanks Mazda!!
My SE
Amberoofie, 07/14/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata SE 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
After many years of admiring Miatas, I finally broke down and bought a new 2003 Special Edition. It has been great. I now look forward to the drive to work and am always plotting reasons to take it out. Granted, it is not meant for freeway cruising. But it will keep up with everybody. It is a little noisy. I also purchased a hardtop for the winter. A wise choice I think. All in all...it puts the fun back in driving. I wish I would have done this years ago.
For Your Driving Pleasure
czyber, 08/17/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is simply a great car that is loads of fun to drive. A real classic with supurb styling, high reliability, and excellent economy. Even though it is not 'high performance' vehicle in terms of power, it certainiy makes up for it in many other ways. This car delivers plenty of driving pleasure!
Whoo Hoo
KellyK, 08/21/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata LS 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great Fun sar. Better to drive a slow car fast than a fast car slow ... but this car is not slow. Had it for 6 weeks and have not driven it with the top up yet! Snug fit but thats part of the fun. It was the Miata or the MINI Cooper S. When I thought about reliability, (top down) fun factor and styling the Miata won. Ive got a minivan for the 2 kids. This is a Sports Car.
woot!
crimsontiger6, 07/24/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is an awesome car. Its not a drag racer but it excels at fun in the twisty bits.
Fantastic
LiMiata, 10/01/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata Shinsen 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my 2nd Miata. I leased a 1999 Miata and fell in love, only to buy a Shinsen version. Having a small car allows me to park anywhere. The Shinsen version also gives a shaper appearance and a better ride. The car puts me in a great mood all the time.
Fun on the road
focusu, 07/24/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great little sports car, if your looking for driving fun with all the feel of an old fashioned raodster. This is not a luxury ride, but a curve hugging, bump feeling, wind blowing thrill. A zippy car with some great features.
Special Edition 6 Speed
R Taylor, 10/15/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata SE 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
A true roadster! Light, small and agile. What more could a sports car aficionado want? A modern classic.
ONE GREAT CAR
MG WANNA BE, 09/24/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My car is a 2000 EO I just love it. It has enought power when you need, a can move out of the way. There is plenty of trunk room for a 2 week vacation full of stuff.
My great little roadster
JCarey, 07/24/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my second Miata. My first one, a 1992, is still running and getting compliments. My daughter bought it from me this spring. My new one is just as wonderful. In 11 years, I plan to buy ANOTHER Miata!
My First Roadster Convertiable
Daniel Colon, 10/01/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata LS 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have always owned a family automobile until now , after the four children moved out,I bought the 2003 Mazda Miata Mx-5 LS and now I fight with my wife to drive it.I drove it from Texas to New York all alone and loved every minute.
Best Bang 4 the Buck
rkmebane, 10/30/2002
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love this car. If you are looking for a nice affordable sports car this is your car. when compared to the others out there, the Miata just made better $en$e.
Excellent! 2nd One purchased!!!
Michele244, 10/30/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata LS 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Absolutley a fabulous little car. This is my second one purchased, and I will always love it. Handles great, looks great, and in 3 years of previously owning one I NEVER had one single issue or problem with anything. Very stable, well made, and a great value.
Miata MX5
clink, 07/24/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata LS 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
A solid performing sports car that is as fun to drive as it is reliable. Just can't justify spending tens of thousands more for a sports car. Probably the closest of all the cars out there to the old British roadster. I love mine.
Best Roadster on the road
aneel, 11/04/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have never had a car that was so well made. Everything that needed to be thought about to put in a sports car was done on this one. Nothing is poorly done... everything is first class
Miata's are GREAT
ceyowsr, 11/05/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata LS 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my Miata, as I have all of our other Miata's
5k miles to date
dubewaa, 11/07/2002
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata LS 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Just eclipsed 5k miles, vehicle is fun to drive, of course cornering is its best attribute, add on ground effects are weak at best, these are applied when car arrives in port, weak attention to detail, not manufacturing problem, but it does cost them, ground effects are attached by plastic plugs, not actual screws, one soft kick and they will pop out, Mazda only sells in kits, has to devise alternative. car has great fit and finish.
A Fun Car To Own And Drive
Ella Minno Pee, 07/24/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is my second Miata. I had two Mustang convertibles between the first Miata and my present Miata. This is a car that makes me happy when I drive it. I can't tell you how many people have made comments on how adorable the car is. Would I buy another Mazda? In a heart beat!
Mazda Miata
razzlesue, 11/08/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata SE 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 6M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Needs highest octane gas or the valves vibrate.
Finally bought my Shinsen!
SluggoJD, 11/16/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata Shinsen 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I agonized for an entire year, and finally did it last night. The car is exactly what I expected - mainly, beautiful yet muscular styling, perfect handling, great sound system, etc. I could go on and on - but other owners already know all the adjectives.
great car
bg, 07/24/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
this car is just best power and performance
Therapy
KMB@NS, 11/19/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a car that is just plain fun. If you do not enjoy driving this vehicle, there is no hope for you. You may never want to put the roof up, even when the cold weather arrives.
Sunshine!!
noblepa, 07/24/2003
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata Shinsen 2dr Roadster (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Overall the most fun vehicle I have owned. Plus it causes smiles everywhere you go, and the driver never stops smiling. Visability is limited on side angles with the top up. My only complaint.