Impressions of the Mazda Miata for 2000

The 2000 Mazda Miata Base was introduced to compete in the convertible market. The Base is a member of a series of three trim levels for the Miata which include Base, LS, and SE. The two-door car with its rear-wheel drive is positioned to aggressively fill this niche for Mazda. There is strong competition from vehicles from Infiniti.

Mazda Miata Engine Specs

The Miata Base is equipped with a Mazda 1.8 liter four-cylinder engine that utilizes 16 valves. The engine is mated to a Aisin Warner 4-speed Transmission. This configuration has proven to be a successful design for Mazda.

Steering control is handled through a power-steering rack-style configuration. The Miata has power-assisted brakes, with 4-Wheel ABS support. The front brakes are disc while the rear brakes are disc. The car uses coil front springs and coil in the rear.

The 2000 Miata's traditional fuel system runs on gas. The fuel is regulated electronically, with a fuel-injected multi-port fuel injection style of design. The fuel tank holds 16.90 gallons.

Vehicle Statistics

The dimensions of the Miata Base are 69.30 inches wide by 187.40 inches long. It sits a comfortable 55.10 inches off the ground. It seats a standard five passengers, with 2 doors. The wheelbase of 105.10 allows for limited leg room for the backseat passengers.

The standard warranty period for the Miata is 36 months, or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. The warranty also includes a warranty on the drivetrain for 36 months or 50,000 miles respectively. This is standard in the convertible market. Extended warranties are also available through the dealer.

The original manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) was $20,715 when new, with a dealer invoice cost of $18,890. This price was in line with the industry average price for a 2-door Convertible.

Fuel Efficiency

The Miata Base received a miles-per-gallon rating of twenty two in-city driving and twenty eight when it came to long-distance. Being a gas-powered non-green car, this was exceptional.

In 1999 and 2000 the Miata Base was availble in the exterior colors of Black Onyx Clearcoat, Chestnut Mica, Driftwood Mica, Freeport Green Metallic, Glacier White, Laser Red Mica, Mojave Beige Mica, Moonlight Gray Metallic, Moonlight Gray Mica, Sage Green Metallic, and Silver Frost Metallic.

Conclusion

There are several reasons why the Mazda Miata Base sold well in 2000. Mainly the increase in availability and a marked improvement in quality meant the buying public was more apt to choose a Mazda, specifically a Miata.