Mazda MX-5 Miata NB NR Limited · Automobile History

Identity and introduction

The NR Limited was a Japanese-market Roadster variant within the second-generation MX-5 Miata (NB). Mazda announced it on December 16, 1999, with sales scheduled for January 18, 2000. The announced sales limit was 500 cars; this is not confirmation of completed production. These are calendar dates, not an export model-year designation.

Specification and character

Based on the Japanese 1.8-litre S with a DOHC engine and six-speed manual, the NR Limited emphasised appearance and comfort. Artvin Red Mica paint accompanied a beige soft top, beige leather seats and polished aluminium wheels. Equipment included a Nardi wood steering wheel, wood gear knob, white instruments with chrome rings, Bose audio and a body-coloured suspension tower bar. Its historical interest lies in this coordinated luxury treatment of the NB roadster. Mazda’s launch announcement does not establish exact assembly dates, factory allocation or a production end date.

Place in the model line

Mazda’s retrospective chronology dates the second-generation debut to October 1997 and the 10th Anniversary edition’s launch to December 1998. The existing NB 10th Anniversary Edition is a separate sibling record. Mazda identifies Ujina Plant No. 1 in Hiroshima, Japan, as the starting location of MX-5 mass production in April 1989; that model-wide history does not independently establish the NR Limited’s assembly allocation. Mazda production history.

Distinction from NR-A

NR Limited and NR-A are separate designations. Mazda unveiled the NR-A prototype on September 3, 2001 as a road-registerable basis for beginner motorsport. That prototype had a 1.6-litre DOHC engine, five-speed manual and changes to suspension, brakes and cooling. Those specifications must not be transferred to this record. Mazda’s NR-A prototype announcement.

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Mazda MX-5 Miata NB NR Limited 1.8-Litre DOHC Engine
The NR Limited used the Japanese 1.8-litre S-model as its mechanical basis. Its exact engine code remains unconfirmed.
Engine