Book Description
Now in its second decade of production, Mazda's superb convertible roadster has become by far the world's best-selling sports car. Here, in definitive detail, is the full story of the MX-5 Miata (known as the Eunos Roadster in Japan) from inception in the early 1980s to the current third generation models. Researched in Japan, this book includes exclusive interviews with key people in the MX-5 story. Coverage includes development, launch details, the model’s evolution in all the major markets, motorsport, specials, and much, much more. The book also features a foreword by Takao Kijima, MX-5 Miata's Chief Engineer.
Customer Reviews:
Good, workmanlike effort.......2007-10-07
I enjoyed this book. It is very detailed and at times that gets on top of you but I guess that is the attraction for many people. The chapters on the gestation of the car and the tuning options are excellent.
Some contemperary road tests would be nice, but there are other books for that. This is just a very detailed history of the model.
Oh Sweet MX5.......2007-09-15
Oh Sweet MX5(Miata) for you American folk. For someone who owned a '99 10th Anniversary, this was a trip down memory lane and a book for all Miata fans to have in their man(or woman) shed bookcases. Very detailed and nice pics, not to forget all of the drawings from the design stages of the various models. Highly recomended.
No brainer for the Miata owner/enthusiast.......2007-07-21
This is a great book. It extensively covers all Miata generations. It is well written and has great pictures. It does a great job covering all the Miata prototypes.
A must buy for the Miata owner/enthusiast.
Indulge Your Miata Enthusaist.......2007-06-15
The latest of Brian Long's MX-5 Miata books, updated to include the third generation MX-5, reflects the same extensive research and attention to detail that the author put into the previous edition. The numerous photos and cutaway illustrations of concept cars, final products and advertisements are reason enough to buy the book, but it is also great reading. This book offers the enthusiast access to the engineers' and designers' decision-making processes as they culminated in the final designs. The reader also gets insider information about some "near misses", such as the proposed front-wheel drive platform, through interviews and first hand information. The differences between the model years are not only itemized but the reasoning behind the changes is also extensively discussed, making this the virtual Miata encyclopedia. It is a pleasure to have this book on the desk to reread a chapter or just to browse the pictures. The author brought his own unbiased view to the project, and that has allowed the product to speak for itself. This book may be most appreciated by the driver who has enjoyed many miles (Sunday drives to nowhere? autocrosses? laps around a track?) in one or more incarnation of the MX-5 Roadster and wants to know more about the inspiration behind the car. I strongly recommend this book as a gift to a Miata enthusiast. If that's you then go on, you deserve it.
Miata than the sword.......2007-06-01
I am about to buy this car so I thought I better read up on the history of it. It is a bigger and fuller book than I expected. It is written in a genial way with plenty of illustrations. I have learnt a lot about the MX5; engine sizes, NA codes, world wide differences and so on.
It was a bonus to read about the original designers and their labour of love. The author is British and his wife Japanese. It was she who bought a Roadster first I believe. He slowly becomes a fan too.
Some of the photos were from ads and promotions which I found a bit tedious. I was also annoyed by the use of the word MIATA on the cover. Surely the American market does not need to be pampered so much?
All in all, a book that is more than a coffee table book. It does get a little repetitive as we scroll through the years but to many that may be good.
If you are an innocent like me who wants to know more to help own one then off you go. If you want something on a 2000 NR Limited edition well I think this is not the book. But there is no book on a car made in 2000 when only 500 were made for the Japan market.I got that from the book.
The car is so good that little in it changes. Those minor changes are recorded and noted.
Customer Reviews:
New Miata Owner.......2007-10-08
This book came highly recommended; it was a great buy, arrived quickly and in great condition; I'm very pleased
Excellent Reference for the 1.8L Miata through 1997(8) .......2007-06-02
I do a lot of DIY maintenance and repairs. I recently purchased a 2000 Mazda Miata along with the model-specific Factory Workshop Manual. While Grainger's ...1.8: Enthusiasts Workshop Manual is intended for the earlier model, pre-1999, most of the guidance can be applied to the 1999-2000 with patience and ingenuity. I found that this manual, when combined with the Mazda Factory Workshop Manual and online resources, provide complete guidance for most tasks including major service. I particularly liked that Grainger included personal insight and tips & tricks that are helpful to a non-professional mechanic. The only issues I have with the Manual's presentation is that the small text is hard to read and the photos are small and some lack clarity. The last issue, which is not totally objectionable, is that the Manual is written with the "right and left" references from the perspective of someone standing behind the car looking forward (this takes some getting used to) - I took a red marker and wrote "left & right" to clarify these references. I would recommend this manual to any Miata owner that does his/her own work.
Book Description
The super-manual for Miata owners. The author has personally
dismantled and reassembled a Miata, taking step-by-step pictures of
all procedures. This, combined with his personal interest in the
Miata and his years of writing and editing Haynes manuals, provides
the background necessary to write the best Miata shop manual
available. Coverage includes maintenance, repairs, modifications and
improvements on all 1.6-liter Miatas from 1989-1994.
Book Description
The Mazda Miata MX-5 has been a popular car among automotive enthusiasts for more than a decade, and hardly a single one of the more than 500,000 sold has not been customized by its owner in some way. This book provides specific how-to instructions through approximately 35 projects that include both maintenance and modification procedures. Each project is treated separately, giving readers very specific information about the commitment in time, tools, money, and talent for each project.
Customer Reviews:
A shadetree Miata mechanic's must have !.......2007-09-03
This book is great and written in a very easy to read and understand manner. If you actually do things to your Miata to improve performance or if you just dream about doing these things, then this is the book to start with.
The projects range from cheap and easy to expensive and involved, but they are all explained and illustrated in detail.
Don't work on your Miata without this book.......2007-07-21
For those who don't know, the author works at Flyin Miata; the premier Miata performance supplier in the US. His knowledge is extensive; so much that I consider him the most knowledgeable Miata enthusiast around. It shows in this book.
The book is well written, easy to understand, and effectively helps the reader tackle projects normally left to a professional. The most common projects are covered.
A must have for those who want to save money and work on their cars on their own.
Excellent book for services or a summary.......2007-03-25
If there's anything you want to do with your Miata it's probably in here. It doesn't go into heavy detail on each job, but it sums it up well, lists the needed tools and tells you about things you might encounter and how to handle them. If you are absolutely clueless about mechanical work you can't use this alone, but it's very nice for something Miata specific and how to do things easily well described by an expert that have done it many times. Keith Tanner uses easy to understand words and it is all basic enough even for us that haven't got an engineering degree. I recommend it for all Miata owners, worst that can happen is that you just look at the pictures.
Top Replacement Caution.......2007-02-28
Mazda Miata MX- 5 Performance Projects by Keith Tanner proved to be invaluable when I replaced the top on my Miata. However, if you plan to reuse your rain rail, exercise a little caution removing the old top. The instructions fail to draw your attention to a couple of retainers in the corners near the doors. I mangled the old rain rail during removal. Fortunately, I wasn't planning to reuse it.
Useful and detailed information for caring for your Miata.......2007-02-12
Written ably by an experienced mechanic and Miata fan, this fine book will provide you with plenty of useful and clear information for maintaining and jazzing up your sweet little Miata.
Highly recommended.
Average customer rating:
|
Miata: Mazda Mx-5
Jack K. Yamaguchi ,
Jonathan Thompson , and
Haru Tajima
Manufacturer: St Martins Pr
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
 General
| Antiques & Collectibles
| Home & Garden
| Subjects
| Books
Classic Cars
| Automotive
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Sports
| Subjects
| Books
Home & Garden
| Boxed Sets
| Formats
| Books
Sports
| Boxed Sets
| Formats
| Books
ASIN: 0312031580 |
Customer Reviews:
A Miata fan's must have........2002-04-30
This is a presentation-quality, two-volume boxed set with marker ribbons attached to each book. The first tells the story of the development of the Miata and also traces the history of the many sports cars that inspired the designers. The text is accompanied by beautiful photos of everything related to this wonderful little car. Photos include versions of the car through sketches, clay models, alternate body style mock-ups, to the final production machine. There are even photos of the many individuals who contributed to the design and manufacturing of the Miata. The other volume is a gorgeous photo essay showing the car in many locales. If you are a Miata fan this set belongs in your home or office
Book Description
With its arrival in the United States in 1990, the Mazda Miata inspired the return of the open roadster. Though other makes and models followed, the Miata remains the convertible sports car of choice for budget-conscious enthusiasts, as popular in autocross and amateur racing circles as it is among pleasure drivers.
This book shows readers how to make the most of any Miata: what to look for in a used model and how to perform common maintenance and repairs, as well as over 15 projects to improve performance and appearance. Focusing on the engine, wheels and tires, suspension, body kits, interior, and more, the projects include full details on required parts, cost, time, tools, and skill necessary for completion. With easy-to-follow directions and clear illustrations, this handy guide is a virtual road map for taking the Miata the full distance.
Customer Reviews:
Mazda MX-5 Miata, Find it, Fix it, Trick it.......2007-09-21
This book was for a gift for my Son who purchased a Mazda Miata MX-5 Turbo, although he has been having problems with this Miata, this book comes in handy.
Kieth Tanner's New Book: Find, Fix, & Trick It, MX-5 Miata.......2007-08-05
Mr. Tanner has excellent writing skills as well as mechanical knowledge. His new book is well written, easy to read and understand, and goes beyond the "How to Books" into an interesting, well illustrated, and comprehensive narrative that gives the reader confidence to perform do-it-yourself (DIY) repaires. His use of illustrations to simplify difficult subject matter is second to no one. The name "Keith Tanner" is synonymous with Mazda, MX-5 Miada modifications and improvements. His latest book is a "must read" for all Mazda Miata Enthusiasts.
Mazda MX-5 Miata: Find It. Fix It. Trick It........2007-07-25
If you're a Miata-phile you'll buy this book anyway. It's well put together (minus 1 or two editing/layout misttakes) Excellent large format photographs. Mr. Tanner does and excellent job of detailing the significance and diffences between the various years and editions of the World's best sellig sports car, The Miata. If you're looking to purchase a used Miata 1989-2002 this is a great resource. Mr. Tanner tells you what models are most sought after and what problems and Miatas to stay away from.
The one thing I was looking forward to in this book was more projects. While there are some maintenance and repair projects detailed in this book don't expect the details and projects from Mr. Tanner's last publication "Mazda Miata MX-5 Performance Projects". To be fair, there was no reason for Mr. Tanner to rehash projects from his last publication. This new publication is much more about the spirit and fun of a Miata, it's full of humorous and interesting anectdotes from Miatphiles around the World.
Makes an excellent companion for Mr. Tanner's "Mazda Miata MX-5 Performance Projects" and the perfect addition to your Miata canon.
A great book for an NA & NB Miata owner.......2007-07-21
The author, Keith Tanner, is a legitimate Miata expert. This book contains Miata history, buying tips, maintenance advise, and upgrades. It does not cover the NC (2006+) Miata.
The book is well written and easy to read and understand. A must have for the Miata owner.
Book Description
An invaluable book for anyone who is either an MX-5/Miata owner already, or plans to become one and needs to know precisely what is available among the many model variants. Liberally illustrated, this volume discusses and explains design and development; model features; accessories and equipment; production and sales history; technical specs, limited edition models and more.
Customer Reviews:
Nostalgia to the Future.......2001-07-06
Three weeks ago I purchased a new Miata, after being away from sports cars for 25 years. (TR3+BMW 2000ti) Oh how I wish I had gotten back into it sooner. It has been so much fun. I purchased the book last week, finished it and loved it. The book told the story of the early British influence, Triumphs, Healeys, etc, on the design, development and marketing of the Miata, brought it thru 1999. The struggles, hopes, fears of the individuals in the company, and the process of internal competition to ferret out the best car with a very high emphasis on handling and suspension. Wow, and the discussion about lack of Miata restoration projects, why, because the oldest ones don't need to be restored, they are still in great condition. And to think, I almost purchased an MR2, now, Maita's forever. The book gave me great background and justification for my exuberance.
You Shouldn't Have To Pay For This Information.......2001-01-16
I don't know why, but for some reason, I thought this would be a repair manual. I purchased a used Miata and wanted to get to know its inner workings because, with an older car, you have to get it fixed a lot.
I ordered this book and it is basically a collection of little articles heaping praise on the vehicle, giving history and so on. If I wanted that kind of information, I could have visited the Miata web site or walked into a Mazda showroom.
I imagine there is a certain kind of auto enthusiast who really enjoys this kind of generic information, but it isn't too useful for someone like me, who wants to flip the book open and set it on the fender next to the open hood of the car.
Sold on the Miata.......2000-07-26
I read this book when considering the purchase of a sports car, and it sold me on the Miata. I bought the car a week later. Very positive perspective and professional tone kept me riveted. Even though I normally don't enjoy detailed automotive description, Taylor's fine writing covered the ground in an easy and fluid way. His interweaving of the history of the Miata throughout the last decade was superb. Nine chapters include fabulous color photographs depicting international and local production, modifications and how to purchase and own. This book is highly recommended for those who own Miatas and those who desire them. I am happy to report that I am now in the ownership category, and incidentally, my new Miata is twilight blue.
Product Description
All Mazda MX-5 Miata models (90 - 97) Haynes offers the best coverage for cars trucks vans and SUVs in the market today. Each manual is written and photographed from "hands-on" experience gained by a complete teardown and rebuild of the vehicle. The first Haynes manual was written this way 40 years ago and all the manuals continue to be produced this way making Haynes the world leader in automotive repair information.
Customer Reviews:
mazda mx5, 90-97 (Hyayes Manuals).......2007-03-19
Generally good but missing some basic instructions on removing some parts before completing the desired task.
Only as a last resort!.......2003-09-02
This book was purchased along with other "I just bought a used car" items (plugs, belts, you know the routine) at the parts store. Because I'd had good experience with Haynes manuals before, it seemed like a Good Idea At The Time.
If I'd known then what I know now...
If Haynes was interested in releasing repair manuals for Miatae, they would've released two for the NA (1990 - 1997) series, because the 1990-93 was a 1.6L engine and the 1994-97 was 1.8L. There are enough differences between the engines to merit two different volumes, and Haynes doesn't do a great job of pointing out the differences between the two. The illustration about spark plug firing order, to name one example, is awkward enough to make you set your tools down and ponder before proceeding. Information in a repair manual should be succinct, not confusing.
If you want good reference material for your Miata (why else would you be reading this?), use the following resources BEFORE cracking open the Haynes:
- www . miata . net - specifically, the FAQ and garage sections.
- Mazda's shop manual for your specific year, available from many online vendors. This is invaluable and will pay for itself over time.
- Rod Grainger's "Enthusiast's Manual" by for your flavor, 1.6L or 1.8L, also available from many online vendors (including Amazon.com!).
- Your local Miata club, also found at www . miata . net
I'm not affiliated with any person, company, product, or web site I've mentioned in this review. I'm just one Miata enthusiast trying to help others.
Doesn't show fuse diagram.......2000-05-25
I bought the book when i got a used Miata without owner's manual. I found it does not specify which fuse works what devices, and that's what I need. Oh well...
Not the old Haynes Manual.......1999-02-02
I remember the original Haynes manuals from the sixties, having used several for working on Austin-Healeys and MGs. I remember them as having a lot of character, and reading them was almost like a conversation with a crusty old mechanic. Those old books seemed to share my love for these absurdly fragile and troublesome cars. This new book for the Miata shares little beyond the "Haynes" logo with with its legacy. Sadly, this new Haynes manual has a style more along the lines of Chilton's or other "fix your jalopy" guides. That is to say, no style at all. And no love.
What is more, the book suffers from assembly-line construction, with boiler-plate sections on tires, batteries, body care, etc., that are way too generic to be of any value to a Miata owner/lover. For example, the battery section is for a lead-acid battery, never mind the Miata has a "gel-cell" type. Want to set the timing on your Miata?... you won't find sufficient information in the Haynes guide to do the job.
The advantage to the Haynes guide is, it's cheap compared to the factory service manual. But, in this writer's humble opinion, it's not worth what it cost.
Book Description
When the Mazda MX-5 was launched in 1989, sports car enthusiasts gave thanks. Safety regulations had virtually killed off the traditional roadster in the early 1970s, and if you wanted the wind in your hair the choice seemed limited to a four-seater convertible that looked like a baby's buggy. Hopes were pinned on the launch of a new MG - but the MX-5 got there first. The car is a star. Here is the full story, from genesis and model evolution to ownership, with all the possibilities that offers.
Customer Reviews:
Too much European Information.......2007-05-10
There is a lot of stuff contained in the book that someone in the US would not have to worry about. I was hoping it would expand on specific problems or issues of certain years or models but that was very limited.
It is a good overview book as it touches upon many aspects just as the title suggests. However it does not dive too deaply into any specific one.
Review.......2004-01-03
Nice book. Easy to read when you're not English. Nice pictures. You have to buy the book when you own a MX-5/Miata or you want to buy one.
Recommended.......2003-08-22
This is an excellent book for any Miata MX-5 enthusiast, well written with plenty of pictures. Of particular interest is the extensive and detailed history of the MX-5 with wonderful photos of prototypes and early designs.
As this book was written in the UK, it has a decided UK (actually a worldwide) flavor. Although not a negative, if you're from the U.S., it causes a few double-takes when you first see pictures of right-hand drivers. You'll also quickly get used to the language differences: boot for trunk, tonneau cover for boot, hood for convertible top, and bonnet for hood.
Written in 2002, the last year model covered is the 2001. But since very little has changed since then, the book is not seriously lacking in covering the modern versions.
Buy this book if you're interested in Miata MX-5 history details: model changes, design, production, worldwide differences. Don't buy if you're interested in performance improvements, racing, repairs, or modifications.
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Mazda Miata MX- 5 Performance Projects
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