Mazda MX-5 Miata NB Japanese SP

Identity and scope

The SP was a Japanese-market grade of the Mazda Roadster within the second-generation MX-5 Miata (NB). It belongs at variant level, beneath the generation. This record covers the domestic SP designation only; similarly named overseas editions are outside its scope.

Mazda’s September 2003 lineup places the SP in the 1600 DOHC group, alongside the M and NR-A. It offered a five-speed manual or four-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission. The SP therefore represents a distinct equipment and transmission choice within the Japanese Roadster range. Mazda’s September 2003 lineup.

Development and documented chronology

Mazda dates the second-generation Roadster’s introduction to January 1998. Its July 18, 2000 announcement already lists the SP among the revised Japanese models. That update brought a revised nose, projector low-beam headlamps, redesigned seats and changes to cabin storage. These were developments of the open two-seat Roadster, rather than a separate SP body style.

The July 2000 price list identifies the SP as a 1.6-litre DOHC grade with five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. Four-wheel ABS was standard on the SP. The release’s 1.8-litre S-VT engine figures and RS-specific Bilstein dampers must not be applied to it. Mazda’s July 2000 announcement.

September 2003 specification

The updated Japanese range went on sale on September 18, 2003. Mazda listed the SP at ¥2,000,000 with manual transmission and ¥2,050,000 with automatic transmission, excluding tax. All grades received aluminium-finish cockpit details and a passenger sun visor with vanity mirror. The release also describes equipment changes for other grades; those do not establish SP fitment. Mazda’s facelift announcement.

Dating and related records

The cited announcements establish Japanese-market availability in July 2000 and September 2003. They do not establish the SP’s complete production interval, assembly plant or production total. These calendar dates should not be converted into overseas model-year designations.

For comparison within the same generation, see the Japanese M and Japanese RS.

Sources

• Mazda Motor Corporation — Mazda Makes Major Changes to ‘Roadster’, July 18, 2000.
• Mazda Motor Corporation — Mazda Roadster Receives a Facelift, September 18, 2003.

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• Mazda MX-5 Miata NB Japanese SP 1.6-Litre DOHC Engine

  A 1.6-litre DOHC engine application in the Japanese Roadster SP, documented with five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. Its engine code and complete production period remain unverified.

  Engine