Used Mazda Miata for Sale by Owner

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a lightweight, two-seat roadster that embodies the essence of a classic sports car. Launched in 1989, it was Mazda's modern take on beloved British roadsters like the Lotus Elan and MGB. The Miata quickly became a legend, reviving the affordable sports car market and earning a Guinness World Record as the best-selling two-seat convertible in history.

Both compact and agile, it is a great choice for driving enthusiasts who crave a raw, unfiltered driving experience. Over four generations (NA, NB, NC, ND), Mazda has meticulously refined the Miata while staying true to its "jinba ittai" (horse and rider as one) philosophy.

Under the hood, the current Miata packs a punch with its 2.0L SKYACTIV-G engine, producing 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque—a far cry from the original's modest 116 hp. This powertrain is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, a tradition carried from the NA's precise 5-speed. This setup offers a thrilling driving experience, boasting a 7,000 rpm rev-happy engine.

The Miata's lightweight design (2,339 pounds) makes it a nimble and responsive car on the road. This featherweight status is a defining trait; even as cars grew heavier, the ND is just 148 pounds more than the 1989 original. Its rear-wheel drive and limited-slip differential efficiently distribute power to the rear wheels, making it a joy to drive on twisty roads.

The Mazda MX-5 Miata Sport is the base trim level, combining performance, style, and the pleasure of driving.

The standard features of the modern Sport include:


*Features indicated for the 2024 model year for all trims.

A used Miata Sport usually sells for $8k to $29k, depending on mileage, condition, and age.

The Mazda MX-5 Miata Club elevates the driving experience by adding performance-enhancing features to the base Miata Sport. Building upon the foundation of the Sport, the Club offers a more refined and dynamic driving experience, making it an attractive choice for enthusiasts who crave more from their roadster.

Here are the features that separate the Club from the Sport:


A used Miata Club usually sells for $18k to $32k, depending on mileage, condition, and age.

As the top-of-the-line trim, the Grand Touring offers a luxurious cabin experience, advanced technology, and enhanced driving dynamics, making it the ultimate Miata experience.

Here are the features that separate the Grand Touring from other trims:


A used Miata Grand Touring usually sells for $6k to $34k, depending on mileage, condition, and age.

The average fuel economy for all Miata trims is 26 mpg city and 34 mpg highway.

Real-world mileage will vary based on driving conditions and habits. Mindful driving optimizes gas mileage across all Miata trims.

Mazda MX-5 Miatas are available in rear-wheel drive (RWD) configuration across all model years.

The Miata's powertrain has evolved over its generations, always focusing on responsiveness and efficiency over raw power:

1. First-generation Miata (1989-1997): 1.6L or 1.8L inline-4 engine, producing 115-133 hp, paired with a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.
2. Second-generation Miata (1998-2005): 1.8L inline-4 engine, outputting 140-142 hp, with either a 5-speed (later 6-speed) manual or 4-speed automatic.
3. Third-generation Miata (2006-2015): Larger 2.0L inline-4 engine, generating 167-170 hp, mated to a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic.
4. The fourth and current generation Miata (2016-present): back to basics with a 1.5L (non-U.S.) or 2.0L SKYACTIV-G engine. The 2.0L makes 155-181 hp, with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic. An optional limited-slip differential enhances traction.

The year, model, mileage, and condition impact the price of a used Miata. Here is what you can expect to pay:


You can filter PrivateAuto’s pre-owned Mazda MX-5 Miata for sale in your area to see what owners are asking for. Then, with our innovative offer feature, you can make an offer that works for your budget, sit back, and see if it gets accepted!

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