EraVerdict: Rock-solid and cheap to run. Rust is the real enemy; early 1.6 cars need the crank pulley checked.
At a glance
Risk 2/5 Market: Cheap fun
Must-have records:
- Timing belt (and who did it on 1990–early '91)
- Rust repair receipts
- Clutch work on 1999–2002 NB
Live listings
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Buy-risk rundown
| Issue | Symptom | How to check | Typical cost (as of Nov 2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rust (rockers ahead of rear arches, floors, NB front side members) | Wet/smelly carpet, rotten rockers | Lift carpet; check drains with water; look underneath | Varies; structural rust can exceed car value [1][2] |
| Short-nose crank (1990–early 1991 1.6) | Crank pulley wobble | Watch pulley at idle; ask who did the timing belt | Worst case a new crankshaft; ~1% of cars affected [1] |
| NB thrust bearing (1999–2000) / clutch chatter (2001–02) | Rattle with clutch pedal down; chatter on engagement | Listen with clutch in; test drive | Clutch replacement is the fix for chatter [3] |
| Timing belt service | — | Check records (~60k mi intervals) | $526–$920 average [4] |
Cost figures checked against the sources below in Nov 2026. Bracketed numbers refer to the source list.
Before you buy
Use our printable pre-purchase inspection checklist and get a PPI from a marque specialist.
Sources
- Hagerty, 1990–97 Miata buyer's guide (accessed Nov 2026)
- ChassisDex, NA/NB buyer's checklist (accessed Nov 2026)
- Road & Track, NB Miata buyer's guide (accessed Nov 2026)
- RepairPal, Miata timing belt cost (accessed Nov 2026)
Last updated 2026-11-05. Costs vary by region and shop.
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