Video contents
Miata: All the Gens, and What Makes Them Different
Flyin' Miata · 18 topics indexed · uploaded 2026-09-25
Watch the full video on YouTube ↗
- 0:00–1:33Intro and video scopeWatch on YouTube ↗
Mike introduces the video, explaining he will cover Miata generations, sub-generations and acronyms like NA/NB/NC/ND at a top level using a lineup of shop, employee and friend cars.
- 1:33–2:11NA6 first-generation Miata introductionWatch on YouTube ↗
Presents the modified NA6 as the original Miata/MX5 released in 1989 that started the lineage.
- 2:13–3:04Decoding the VIN generation codeWatch on YouTube ↗
Explains that the fourth and fifth VIN digits (e.g. NA) identify the Miata generation, showing the VIN plate on the driver's side.
- 3:05–4:12NA6 1.6L details and legacyWatch on YouTube ↗
Describes why the first three years are called NA6 (1.6L four-cylinder) and how the car revived the British-roadster formula with Japanese reliability.
- 4:14–6:01NA8 1994-1997 changesWatch on YouTube ↗
Covers the 1994 NA8 update with the 1.8L engine, upgraded axles, differential and subframe bracing, and the 1990-1997 NA production run.
- 6:01–7:53NB1 1999-2000 second generationWatch on YouTube ↗
Introduces the NB1 with integrated headlights, similar chassis, improved 1.8L head and intake, and updated ECU electronics.
- 7:56–9:12Power figures and NB1 chassis bracingWatch on YouTube ↗
Compares wheel horsepower of NA6 (~90), NA8 (~100) and NB1 (~110) and notes the NB1's added chassis bracing and suspension tweaks, with a passing comparison to MGB/Spitfire driving feel.
- 9:12–11:55NB2 facelift, VVT and parts interchangeWatch on YouTube ↗
Covers the 2001-2005 NB2/NBFL with updated emissions electronics, VVT 1.8L engine, new six-speed option, and broad 1990-2005 parts interchangeability.
- 11:55–15:07Mazdaspeed Miata factory turboWatch on YouTube ↗
Describes the 2004-2005 MSM with factory turbocharger, unique bumpers and trim, mixed NB1/NB2 engine parts, factory fire ending production, and ~135-140 whp.
- 15:07–18:10NC1 all-new third generationWatch on YouTube ↗
Explains the 2006-2008 NC1's all-new stiffer chassis, Ford-shared 2L Duratec/MZR engine, new transmissions, and multi-link rear suspension.
- 18:10–20:15NC2 update and forged internalsWatch on YouTube ↗
Covers the 2009 NC2 aesthetic refresh, forged-internal 2L engines in manual cars, and ~130-135 whp output.
- 20:19–21:10Power retractable hardtop optionWatch on YouTube ↗
Explains the PRHT introduced in 2007 as a motorized folding roof option and its weight penalty versus soft tops.
- 21:13–23:05NC3 2013 facelift and weightWatch on YouTube ↗
Describes the 2013 NC3 bumper differences, project Megalodon NC2 wearing an NC3 bumper, and the PRHT NC being the heaviest Miata by roughly 100-150 lb.
- 23:08–28:02ND1 fourth generation overviewWatch on YouTube ↗
Covers the 2016-2018 ND1's all-new chassis, direct-injection Skyactiv 2L, six-speed only manual, revised suspension, ~150 whp, gram strategy weight savings and electric power steering.
- 28:02–30:57ND2 engine upgradesWatch on YouTube ↗
Describes the 2019 ND2 with reworked head, intake, exhaust and throttle body raising output to ~167 whp and a higher redline, plus the 1.5L backstory.
- 30:58–31:30Retractable fastback (RF) optionWatch on YouTube ↗
Notes the 2017 introduction of the retractable fastback power roof as the ND equivalent of the PRHT.
- 31:34–34:26ND3 2024 updates and KPCWatch on YouTube ↗
Covers the 2024 ND3 with full LED lighting, wider infotainment screen, luxury-leaning upgrades and kinematic posture control brake-based chassis stabilization.
- 34:26–36:47Next-gen speculation and wrap-upWatch on YouTube ↗
Speculates on a possible next-generation Miata based on ~10-year cycles, asks viewers for input, and closes with contact info and subscribe call.