2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata for sale - Dallas, TX - craigslist (2024)

FAQs

Which years of Miata are best? ›

Build quality is good, and the standard of finish is a big improvement over earlier generations of MX-5. It's not in the same league as an Audi TT or BMW Z4, but then the Mazda isn't in the same price bracket either.

My car runs and drives essentially the same at 141,000 that it did at 70,000. In my area I know several Miata owners who have over 200,000 miles and my local dealer says that 300,000 is not uncommon for Miatas. The way to achieve high mileage is by regular scheduled maintenance and driving the car regularly.

“Price rises, as ever, caught our eye: until the end of 2021 values had been relatively flat, topping out at about £1500. Since then, we've seen a few sell for more than £3500 up to around the £5000-mark for a really good one. Like its older brother, it's a surefire next-generation classic.”

On a route where you can rev the engine out, the 1.5-litre is an absolute joy and will allow you to sprint from 0-62mph in 8.3 seconds. However, if you need to overtake more frequently or prefer more mid-range punch, there's the 2.0-litre engine.

They are the same car. Mazda called it the Miata in some regions originally but is trying to phase it out very gently. NC and ND cars don't actually reference Miata but everyone still refers to them as such because it's iconic in North America.

No single piece is "exotic", and even the engine is lifted mostly from the family hatchback. Miatas are cheap for basically three reasons. First, they make them out of the least expensive material required to do the job, and they tend to use preexisting, commonly-manufactured engines.

The reliability

It shouldn't be a cause for concern – MX-5s are very reliable indeed. Engine woes are few. The very earliest cars, from 1990-1991, have the potential for engine failure due to problems with the crankshaft pulley bolt.

According to motorbiscuit.com, the Mazda Miata is predicted to last around 200,000 miles. Some have even made it past this point with little issue. Of course, you and other factors play a role in the years your Mazda Miata will get on the road.

however, despite the fact the winter salt seems to tan the rear arches and sills, can you drive an MX-5 every day? Yes, you certainly can. Driving an MX-5 24/7 is extremely satisfying. Just think, how many times have you got into your car on your commute and thought “that roundabout looks fun”?

Is a Miata hard to maintain? ›

The Miata is known for its user-friendliness, and many maintenance tasks can be tackled by DIY enthusiasts. The internet is brimming with Miata forums and resources offering detailed guides for oil changes, air filter replacements, and other routine procedures.

Mazda MX-5 Miata Depreciation

We use 5 years as an example in our analysis. When new, a typically-equipped Mazda MX-5 Miata sells for $34,688 on average. After 5 years of depreciation, the average residual value will be $27,976.

Not only is the purchase price more affordable than similar models, but it is relatively inexpensive to own and maintain as well, as parts don't tend to be expensive should you need repairs. Mazda is also well-known for making cars that are fun to drive. The Miata, of course, is no exception!

The Miata was made even more drivable with the introduction of traction control and stability control as well as rear multilink suspension (the Miata featured a 4-wheel double wishbone design previously). Debuting in 2015, the fourth-generation MX-5 Miata is the fastest Miata to date.

See How Life is More Fun with an MX-5 Miata

Premiering at the Chicago Auto Show in February 1989, the original MX-5 (NA) went on sale in the United States later that May as a 1990 model.

The Mazda Miata enjoys above-average reliability, with some of its model years scoring better than others.