Mazda MX-5 NA (1989–1997): How to Remove the Bumpers

Official Names of the MX-5 NA in Different Countries

Japan – Eunos Roadster
Sold through the Eunos dealership network, created by Mazda for premium models.
In the 1990s, the Mazda Roadster version appeared after the Eunos brand was discontinued.

USA and Canada – Mazda MX-5 Miata
The name "Miata" comes from an Old German word meaning "reward" or "prize."
In North America, the name became so popular that Mazda officially added it to the MX-5 in subsequent generations.

Europe (Including the UK) – Mazda MX-5
In some countries (e.g., Germany), only the *MX-5* designation was used.
In the UK, it was initially sold as the Mazda MX-5, but later special editions appeared with clarifications (e.g., *MX-5 Eunos* for imported models).

Australia and New Zealand – Mazda MX-5
In these markets, the car did not receive a separate name, but imported Japanese versions were sometimes called Eunos Roadster.

The first-generation Mazda MX-5, also known as the MK1 or NA, is a legendary compact roadster that revived interest in rear-wheel-drive sports cars with a classic layout. Produced from 1989 to 1997, it quickly gained popularity due to its winning combination of lightweight design, handling, and affordability.

Key Models:

• 1.6L (NA6) – The first version with a 4-cylinder DOHC engine (115–130 HP, depending on the market).
• 1.8L (NA8) – From 1994, power increased to 128–133 HP, with improved torque.
• Special Edition (SE) – Limited runs with unique paint, leather interiors, and additional features.
  In Japan, special versions existed, such as the Mazda Roadster RS with a lightweight design and the M2-1006—an exclusive modification by subsidiary M2 Inc.

How to Remove the Front Bumper

1. Start with the middle section of the bumper. Unscrew the two bolts facing upward and remove the radiator grille.
2. Behind the grille, remove six clips—three inserted from below and three from above.
3. Open the hood.
4. Remove four clips and take off the trim panel.
5. Under the panel, unscrew four bolts securing the top of the bumper.
6. Raise the headlights and unscrew one nut on each side (hidden under rubber seals).
7. From underneath, unscrew four upward-facing bolts.
8. Move to the wheel arches—remove or turn the wheels aside.
9. In the wheel arches, unscrew three bolts per side (two secure the corners to the fenders, and four attach the sides to brackets).
10. Unscrew the bolts, fold back the fender liners, and remove two nuts per side inside the fenders (these nuts are prone to rust—be careful not to break the studs).
11. Disconnect the wiring harnesses for the lights.
12. With an assistant, pull the bumper forward to remove it.

How to Remove the Rear Bumper

The bumper can be removed in two ways: by unscrewing the nuts and removing it with the reinforcement bar, or by pulling out the clips and removing it without the bar. The first method is easier.

1. In the wheel arches, unscrew the bolts and free the fender liners.
2. Unscrew one bolt per side securing the bumper corners to the fenders.
3. Near the wheel arches, underneath, unscrew another pair of bolts.
4. Now, unscrew eight nuts attaching the reinforcement bar brackets to the rear panel of the trunk.
   • If removing the bumper without the reinforcement bar, pull out eleven top clips and five bottom clips.
5. With an assistant, pull the bumper backward to remove it (don’t forget to disconnect the wiring).

Model Overview
The MX-5 NA featured a simple yet effective design:

• Engine: 1.6L or 1.8L petrol with a timing chain for reliability.
• Transmission: 5-speed manual (rarely, a 4-speed automatic).
• Suspension: Independent double-wishbone setup front and rear for excellent handling.
• Weight: Around 940–1000 kg, making it one of the lightest production roadsters.
  The design drew inspiration from classic British sports cars like the Lotus Elan but with modern (for the time) engineering.

Interesting Facts

• Developed under the codename "Project P729" starting in 1984, based on the Mazda Duo 101 concept.
• Remained nearly unchanged for 8 years—Mazda deliberately avoided radical changes to preserve the original spirit.
• Holds the Guinness World Record as the best-selling roadster—over 1 million MX-5s sold across all generations by 2016.
• Influenced the auto industry, inspiring models like the BMW Z3 and Toyota MR2 Spyder.
• A special UK edition, the 1991 MX-5 British Racing Green, featured a wooden gear knob as a tribute to classic Jaguars.

Conclusion
The Mazda MX-5 NA remains an iconic car, cherished for its pure driving experience and reliability. Its classic design, rear-wheel-drive layout, and affordability on the used market keep it popular among enthusiasts and collectors.