In 1998, Mazda released the second-generation Miata, then known as MX-5 Miata production code NB, for the 1999 model year. The NB featured a more powerful engine and external styling cues borrowed from the third generation Mazda RX-7 model.
Although many parts of the interior and body were different, the most notable changes were the headlights: the first generation's retractable headlights no longer passed pedestrian safety tests and were replaced by fixed ones. The new car grew slightly in width compared to the earlier model; its dimensions were: length 3945 mm (155.3 in), width 1678 mm (66.0 in), height 1228 mm (48.4 in) and wheelbase 2265 mm (89.2 in). Without options, the NB weighed exactly 1000 kg (2205 lb). The new generation was slightly more aerodynamic than the original, with a Cd figure of 0.36.
The NB continued to employ four-wheel independent suspension, with enlarged anti-roll bars at the front and rear, but the wheels, tires and brakes were significantly upgraded: anti-lock braking system was offered as an option; alloy wheels were now 14 in or 15 in in diameter and 6 in in width, depending on the trim package; sports models were equipped with the larger wheels and 195/50VR15 tires.
The BP-4W engine remained at 1.8 L but received several minor updates. The engine compression ratio was raised from 9.0:1 to 9.5:1 by adding slightly domed pistons; the intake cam was changed to a solid lifter design with a stronger cam; the intake runners in the head were straightened and the intake manifold was mounted higher up. Mazda's Variable Intake Control System was introduced, which effectively gave a long narrow intake manifold at low rpm for better swirl, changing to a short, free-flowing manifold at high rpm for maximum breathing. Power output of the new engine was quoted at 105 kW (140 hp) with 119 ft·lbf (161 N·m) of torque.
The 1.6 B6 engine remained available in Europe and Japan.
The base-model 1.8 NB could reach 96 km/h (60 mph) in 7.9 s and had a top speed of 197 km/h (123 mph).
In 1999, Mazda celebrated the 10th anniversary of the MX-5 with the 10th Anniversary Model, a limited edition featuring some until-then exclusive features, namely a six-speed transmission and Bilstein shock absorbers; performance figures were slightly different, with faster acceleration but lower top speed than the standard 1.8 NB.
For the 2001 model year, a facelift to the second-generation MX-5 was released. There were some minor exterior changes, with a press-release of July 18, 2000 announcing the changes as "resulting in an even sportier and more forceful look". Some cockpit elements were changed, with the instrument panel gauges receiving a white face and red numbers. The seats were also upgraded, incorporating more support in the side bolsters and taller headrests. Added for top models were 16-inch wheels with 205/45VR16 low-profile tires and larger brakes at the front and rear. The upgraded tires and suspension allowed the new model to pull 0.88 g in lateral grip in tests by Car and Driver magazine.
The body was strengthened, gaining 16% in bending rigidity and 22% in torsional rigidity. With the minimum of options, the 2001 model weighed 1065 kg (2350 lb). The 1.8 BP-Z3 engine was slightly modified and now featured variable valve timing on the intake camshaft. The intake and exhaust system also received a minor upgrade. These modifications resulted in a power output of 117 kW (155 hp) (Japan and Australia) or 110 kW (146 hp) (US and Europe).
In the United States, Mazda erroneously quoted the power figure for the Japanese and Australian model in early catalogues. Car and Driver magazine and numerous owners confirmed the missing power, and Mazda offered to buy back the 2001 cars due to those misleading power claims. Owners who did not take up the buy back offer were offered an apology and free servicing for the warranty period. 2002 saw the launch of the MX5 SP.
The MX-5 SP was developed and sold in Australia and its turbocharged engine produced 157 kW at 6800 RPM. Only 100 of these cars were built. The SP was very expensive in comparison to a standard MX5 at the time yet offered blistering performance. The SP, however, has suffered from reliability issues being a very low-budget, low-production vehicle. In 2003 Mazda launched a campaign to target a younger group of drivers with the launch of the Shinsen Version (SV) Miata.
mark 2 coupe
The Shinsen (Japanese for "Fresh and New,") provided an intermediate step between the base model and the pricier LS model. Equipped with most features available on the LS, such as cruise control and aluminum brush trim, the SV added a touch of comfort and style without a hefty price tag. This limited production model also shared an inverted color scheme of the same year Special Edition. With a titanium silver exterior, dark blue top and matching interior, the Shinsen Version was a truly unique addition to the Miata family. The 2004 model year saw the introduction of the official turbocharged Mazdaspeed MX-5, Roadster Turbo in Japan. It featured an IHI turbocharger equipped BPT engine that produced 178 hp (133 kW) at 6000 RPM with a front-mounted air-to-air intercooler. Other features included a special suspension, upgraded transmission and clutch assemblies, upgraded drivetrain components, Racing Hart 17-inch alloy wheels, special interior trim.
The 2004 Mazdaspeed MX-5 was only available in Velocity Red Mica and Titanium Gray Metallic while the 2005 model was available additionally in Lava Orange Mica and Black Mica. Of the 5,428 Mazdaspeed MX-5s produced during model years 2004 and 2005, 4,000 were produced in 2004 and the 2005 production run was shortened due to a fire at the production facility to only 1,428. Also during the 2004 model year, a division of Mazda in Japan produced the Roadster Coupé, with an integral hardtop roof. The body structure was reworked to incorporate the roof for a substantial increase in chassis rigidity and a weight increase of 10 kg (22 lb). Production was limited to 350 units for Japan only.