B-Package Survivor: 1990 Mazda Miata – Sold?

August 26, 2022, Update – We just confirmed the listing for this “Classifind” expired, so with no replacement found we’re assuming this ride “Sold?” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

July 21, 2022 Update – The seller just replaced their original Craigslist ad with an updated listing. In it, the seller provides a video link and a one thousand dollar reduction in price from $16,995 to $15,995.

While there’s no denying that the NA-series Mazda Miata is very much a known quantity these days, an exceedingly clean one still catches our eye. Throw in some sought-after factory options, and you’re talking about one of the more desirable modern classics that’s still attainable for most of us. This 1990 Mazda Miata, originally listed in June 2022 on Craigslist in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, has just under 52,000 original miles and appears in excellent condition with loads of recent maintenance. The seller is now asking $15,995 (the original ask was $16,995), and comparing that price against the model guide here on Classic.com shows an average sale price of right around $11,000. However, if you’ve followed this market at all, you know that the condition and options can quickly push the price higher:

The debate over which Miata is the best Miata will likely rage on for generations. The NA series cars are sought after because people generally like the first of anything over the subsequent renditions. It’s often been said that the later Miatas are far superior cars, but that doesn’t change the general sentiment that an NA car is the purest expression of one of the purest sports cars ever made. It’s not entirely different from the haze that hangs over 996-chassis Porsches, which are really pretty darn good cars, but it’s a model that languishes in the shadows of the mighty 993. That said, owners of cherry NA cars like this one are sitting pretty because both enthusiasts and casual car fans are likely salivating over a model like this with low miles and the desirable options that came standard with the B-package box checked on the order sheet. While many Miatas have been stripped down and caged up for track day usage, the wide appeal of this model means that plenty of owners are on the retirement train and have simply used their roadster as a sunny day driver, which is how I envision this car was used.

The savage geese YouTube channel provides a very cinematic history of the first-generation Miata in this episode:

Now, there are still plenty of Miatas that show up for sale with next to no miles on the clock and in time-warp condition. I have no objection to owning one like that, but I’d much prefer a car like this with reasonably low miles and still in excellent condition but equipped with all the right options. The B-package gets you a limited-slip differential, which is pretty much the one major option enthusiasts want. It also has the desirable headrest speakers, which I don’t believe were standard across the range. The seller’s car will also come with the sought-after OEM hardtop, a factory accessory that now seems to be an $800 purchase (or more) regardless of which make and model it’s attached to. The paintwork on the seller’s car appears to be in excellent condition, with the iconic “Mazda” graphic still visible on the front bumper. Lots of recent service includes work to the air conditioning system, a new valve cover gasket, and a full fluid change, but the must-do timing belt is just listed as having been “checked.” For the money asked here, I’d want that job done.

Here’s the seller’s description:

“Miata 1990 Spectacular example of a 1990 Miata NA built 11/1989., with only 51,000 very low miles. Adult-owned and garaged always!! Options include: B Package, 5 speed, Ice Cold Air Conditioning, Am/Fm Cassette with remote CD player, Factory Hardtop, factory original soft top with a zip-out rear window, Head Rest speakers, Cruise Control, Leather steering wheel, Power Steering, Power Brakes, Power Windows, Limited Slip Rearend. 2 previous owners meticulously maintained, clean Carfax all original paint and all VIN stickers present. This is virtually rust-free with only light small spots on suspension. If you are a collector, this is a car you should own. Multiple services: AC Just serviced evaporator replaced, valve cover gasket replaced, oil and all fluids changed, timing belt checked, previous service records available.”

Nicest one left: Is there a better NA chassis Miata still on the market today?