EDMUNDS.COM 2004 MAZDA MX-5 MIATA
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| Editors'' Review |
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 Summary
What Edmunds.com Says
Still the standard when it comes to delivering top-down thrills without breaking the bank.
Pros
Fun-to-drive character, excellent steering and handling, economical to run.
Cons
Small trunk, drones on the freeway, tight cabin.
What''s New for 2004
A Mazdaspeed version of the Miata makes its debut for 2004. New 16-inch alloy wheels are available and Black Cherry Mica is a new exterior color choice.
Overview
Introduction:
When Mazda introduced the Miata roadster for the 1990 model year, this fetching drop top was the recipient of widespread critical acclaim and overwhelming consumer interest. At the time, it represented the revival of the traditional British sports car, albeit this one of Japanese origin. It had styling that was derivative of the Lotus Elan and excellent reliability in the tradition of Japan''s automakers. Its only real competition upon its debut came from the homely Mercury Capri and the aged Alfa Romeo Spyder. Given these two options, buyers lined up at Mazda dealerships and paid more than sticker price for the svelte new Miata.Over the years, the Miata gained power but it also gained weight. Today''s car performs on par with the original, but is far tighter and safer than its progenitors. Historically, the Miata has received midcycle updates to keep the car fresh. From 1990 to 1993, there were minimal changes; in 1994, the Miata received more power, styling updates, interior changes and structural reinforcement. There wasn''t a 1998 model. The redesigned 1999 Miata arrived with even more power, a larger interior, exposed headlamps and more aggressive styling. It also received a glass rear window with defogger, a stouter chassis and sharpened reflexes. For 2001, the Miata was again tweaked; styling was touched up front and rear, new colors debuted, seats were revised and 17-inch wheels and tires became available. Mazda typically offers a special edition or two each year, released in the springtime. These are limited-production vehicles that command high prices and appeal primarily to Miata enthusiasts. But anyone can be enthusiastic about this car. The Miata is about simplicity in design and operation. It''s about having fun behind the wheel. It''s about feeling free and young on warm summer nights. Not a serious car, the Miata, but that''s part of its charm.
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For Pricing information, see Edmunds'' Pricing page. |
Body Styles, Trim Levels and Options:
The Miata comes one way: two doors, two seats, convertible top. Base and LS models are available. Standard equipment includes 16-inch alloy wheels, four-wheel disc brakes, air conditioning, a CD player and power windows and mirrors. The LS adds a limited-slip differential, leather upholstery, cruise control, power locks, keyless entry and an upgraded stereo with Bose speakers. Note that the base model is eligible for a convenience package that provides power door locks, cruise, keyless entry and tweeter speakers. A suspension package for both models includes Bilstein shocks and firmer suspension settings; the base model also picks up the limited-slip differential. Two Appearance Packages are offered, but we don''t think either one really adds to the appeal of the car. Finally, for those of you who live in rainy climates, Mazda offers a detachable hardtop.
Powertrains and Performance:
The Miata''s 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine makes 142 horsepower at 7,000 rpm and 125 pound-feet of torque at 5,000 rpm. A five-speed manual transmission drives the rear wheels, but a six-speed is available on LS. In our experience, the six-speed adds little to the driving experience; we''re happy with the five-speed, though you can''t get the suspension package with it. Should you really dislike shifting the car yourself, any Miata can be equipped with a four-speed automatic transmission.
Safety:
Antilock brakes aren''t available on base models, but can be ordered as an option on the LS model -- it''s required when the automatic transmission is ordered. Unlike most premium German roadsters, the Miata is not available with side airbags, head airbags, traction control or stability control. In government frontal impact crash tests the Miata earned four stars out of five for driver protection and a perfect five stars for protection of the front passenger. Side-impact tests resulted in a three-star rating.
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For more Safety information, see Edmunds'' Safety page. |
Interior Design and Special Features:
The Miata''s cockpit is snug; seemingly more so when the top is raised. Still, it is comfortable enough for two to take day trips or go on a weekend getaway. If you pack sparingly, the tight trunk has enough room for your belongings. The Miata is basic inside, but conveniences such as cruise control, an in-dash CD changer and leather upholstery are available. The top can be raised or lowered from the driver seat in a matter of seconds, making the Miata an ideal companion for spontaneous adventures.
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For more Interior Features information, see Edmunds'' Specifications page. |
Driving Impressions:
Cross-country trips on American interstates are not the Miata''s forte, as the engine tends to drone at highway cruising speeds. However, with a lowered top and an open road, the Miata has few equals. The engine is perfectly matched to the suspension and steering, making the car a joy to pilot on curvy two-lane roads. When equipped with the Suspension Package, the Miata''s performance envelope is even more impressive.
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For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from Edmunds'' editors, see Edmunds'' Road Tests page. |
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