It's no secret that I'm a fan of the Mazda MX-5. Many of us in the office are too and it's easy to see why. The simplistic approach to motoring and the open-top driving experience is about as pure as you're going to get on a budget. They may not be the biggest cars out there, but they make up for it with fun factor. Speak to any owner and they will tall you all about it, but if you're reading this, the chances are that you own one and already know this. In fact, you may be that guy!
Related: The Mazda MX-5 – Everything you need to know.
Four generations of the Mazda MX-5 have been made with the first model being launched in 1989. The NA model was a return to the roadster and without it we may never have seen the likes of the Honda S2000, BMW Z3 or Mercedes-Benz SLK. This model ran until 1997 and was replaced by the second-generation NB model in 1999, although South Africa was a little late to the party and we only got the facelifted NB2 in 2001.
2005 saw the launch of the third-generation, the NC and this model was in production until 2014 with a few registered in 2015. The NC model underwent several updates during this course with a 2008 facelift and again in 2013. The NC was the first MX-5 to feature a Power Retractable Hard Top (PRHT) version.
The fourth and current version, the ND was released in 2015 and was claimed to be a return to the original concept of lightweight, simple motoring. The soft-top roadster version was sadly discontinued locally in favour of the ND RF (Retractable Fastback) and at the time of writing, is the only version on sale today.
Enough about the history though, you can dive into that with our video on the subject here; The Mazda MX-5 Story - 4 Generations of Drop-Top. In the meantime, check out these hot extras that we think you should fit to your Mazda MX-5.
1. Wheels
Wheels should be the first port-of-call for any motoring enthusiast. While there's nothing wrong with the standard wheel selection on the Mazda MX-5 range, changing the design of the wheels (or going one size up) can completely transform the way your car looks and handles. If you're interested in switching out wheels, you'll need a set that fits. Here are the standard wheel PCDs (Pitch Circle Diameters) so that you can start shopping.
Models: All
| Model | OEM Wheel Size | PCD |
| NA (1989 - 1997) | 14-inch | 4x100 |
| NB (1999 - 2005) | 15- or 16-inch | 4x100 |
| NC (2005 - 2014) | 16- or 17-inch | 5x114.3 |
| ND (2015 - current) | 17-inch | 4x100 |
2. Revlimiter Gauges
This one is a little more tricky than wheels and you won't feel the results like you would with a set of wheels and tyres, but who doesn't like looking at a set of unique, custom gauges? Revlimiter.net offers a host of gauge faces for all four models in the lineup as well as a host of other retro accessories and modifications for many models (with most available for NA and NB models). Can't find something you like? Drop them a mail and get them to make you a custom set! You will need a little DIY knowledge in order to fit them, but the site offers all the instruction you could possibly desire.
Models: All
3. Delrin Door Bushes
Without a roof structure to help stiffen the chassis, the MX-5 is prone to flex a little when cornering aggressively or when driving over bad roads. A simple, quick and relatively cheap upgrade is the fitment of Delrin door bushes like this set from Cobalt, available through mossmiata.com. These firm door bushes create a stronger connection when you close the door and help eliminate unwanted rattles and vibration.
Models: All
4. Suspension upgrade
This extra is for the more hard-core enthusiast that either wants to lower their car or finely tune the suspension settings for track work. While there are limited options in South Africa, BC-Racing will be able to order and supply a host of suspension solutions to fit the bill. Their kits range from mild to wild, depending on your budget and requirements. Other options include FK Automotive, and L&T Suspensions through RB Magic.
Models: All
5. Spoilers
Small aero touches also go a long way in transforming the look of a car and while local options are limited, MossMiata.com also offers a host of options for all models, ranging from the popular R-Package lip for the NA to a more aggressive option for the ND.
A low-profile boot spoiler is also available in a variety of designs. Most will require colour-coding to your vehicles original colour.
Models: All
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