This small Japanese roadster manufactured by Mazda has tons of admiration among gearheads the world over. It may not be remarkably powerful or fast, but the Mazda MX-5 Miata has a number of attributes that make most owners fall in love with it.

This sports car has its origins in Mazda's intention to reincarnate the British roadster designs of the 1960s and '70s. The Mazda MX-5 was debuted in 1989 at the Chicago Auto Show with an original price of $14,000. It received a great reception and widespread recognition; indeed, it is still widely appreciated in the 21st century. The first generation of the Miata would prove the best-selling convertible sports car in history. Now, that's one hell of a feat.

But, what does the 1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata cost in 2021, and why is it such a beloved ride, exactly? Let's take a closer look.

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The 1990 Mazda MX-5 Is Pretty Affordable

1990 Mazda Miata MX-5 red modded front
via Flickr

One of the best parts of getting an old Mazda MX-5 is the price you'd pay for it. Although it will depend on a whole host of variables, including trim level, condition, and any aftermarket parts installed, the 1990 Miata typically starts off at $6,000. Base models kept stock with very low mileage and in extraordinary condition can cost up to $15,000.

That said, there are first-generation MX-5s on the market that cost as low as $2,000, which are usually in dire need of maintenance. Yet, as possible project cars, they could be just as suitable as those with heftier price tags. Further, maintenance and modification for an early '90s MX-5 tend to be fairly inexpensive.

Overall, the Miata experience is often best described as joyful and simple. Whether you enjoy working on and building yourself a roadster, or just like the idea of a small, affordable, and reliable convertible with adorable pop-up headlamps, the 1990 Mazda Miata is definitely a good option to look into.

This '90s Roadster Was Stripped Down

1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata red front street
via Flickr

With a front-engine rear-wheel-drive layout and a 1.6-liter DOHC (dual overhead camshaft) 4-cylinder engine, the first generation of Miatas made 113 hp to the wheels and 100 lb-ft of torque. It had a top speed of 116 mph and could hit sixty in 8.7 seconds.

As for transmissions, you have the choice of an automatic and five-speed manual. A limited-slip differential was optional in the US market. It also featured an independent double-wishbone suspension setup and anti-roll bars on the rear and front.

The 1990 MX-5's body was all-steel with the exception of the hood, which was made from lightweight aluminum. In order for the price to be as low as it was, Mazda pretty much stripped the Miata. The base model came with a lack of a/c, stereo, power steering, and steel wheels. However, some of these features were added in later models. Offered in both hard-top and soft-top, the MX-5 NA was only 156 inches long and 65.9 inches wide, with a weight of 2,160 lbs.

Following models of the first-gen MX-5 received various upgrades, including a new 1.8-liter engine in 1994. Many special trims and limited editions of the MX-5 were made available such as the M-Edition and the Speedster Edition. The M2, a subsidiary of Mazda at the time, built highly modified versions of the Miata for racing. Thanks to the 50-50 weight distribution and the car's agility, they achieved some pretty good results, revealing the true capacity of the MX-5.

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It Comes With Easy Maintenance And Modification Potential

1990 Mazda Miata MX-5 red modded side white wheels
via Flickr

In addition to its affordability, the Miata's mechanical simplicity means that it's not only easy to maintain but reliable and pretty damn sturdy. It doesn't require much engineering knowledge and experience to work on an MX-5; yet another reason to love this tiny two-seater and another cause to consider this ride for your first project car.

The Miata is also an excellent platform for modding; you could build one to set time records on the track or make it into a drift car, a fun weekend car, daily driver, or even possibly, an off-roader! This Miata is made of parts and materials that are reliable, meaning that the roadster can withstand a bit of extra pressure and power.

Another huge selling point for the MX-5 is the abundance of information available on sites and forums across the internet, including thorough guides and instructions for almost any modification or repair imaginable. This also rings true when it comes to the availability of spare parts and its aftermarket diversity.

All in all, the Mazda Miata MX-5 is a solid sports car and while not the fastest or most ferocious roadster you'd find on the market, most used examples from the 1990 model year offer decent value for money.