The Good
The 2011 MX-5 Miata excels in performance with its agile handling and responsive steering, providing an emotionally engaging driving experience. Its simple design and proven mechanicals contribute to good reliability. While not overly luxurious, it offers adequate comfort for a roadster. Fuel efficiency is respectable, and its affordable price makes it an excellent value for a fun, reliable sports car.
The Bad
The 2011 MX-5 Miata's weaknesses include limited cargo space and a somewhat cramped cabin, especially for taller drivers. The ride can be firm, and road noise is noticeable. Potential buyers should watch out for rust, particularly in areas with harsh winters. Also, check for proper top operation (both soft and hard tops) and any signs of excessive oil consumption.
2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: All 2011 MX-5 Miatas come with a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine.
- Horsepower: The engine produces 167 horsepower at 7,000 rpm (manual transmission) and 158 horsepower at 6,700 rpm (automatic transmission).
- Fuel Economy:
- Manual: EPA estimates 22 mpg city / 28 mpg highway.
- Automatic: EPA estimates 21 mpg city / 28 mpg highway.
- 0-60 Times: Approximately 6.5-7.0 seconds, depending on the transmission.
- Towing Capacity: Towing is not recommended or supported by Mazda for the MX-5 Miata.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Sport: 16-inch alloy wheels, cloth seats, manual windows and locks, CD player, and a manually folding soft top.
- Touring: Adds power windows and locks, cruise control, and upgraded audio.
- Grand Touring: Includes leather upholstery, heated seats, automatic climate control, premium Bose audio system, and available retractable hardtop (PRHT).
- Special Editions (e.g., Special Edition): Unique cosmetic upgrades, sometimes performance enhancements like Bilstein shocks and limited-slip differential.
2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2011 |
| Make | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Convertible |
| Category | Sports Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | HIROSHIMA |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | 1153.03 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 1416.11 kg |
| Overall Height | 124.46 cm |
| Overall Length | 399.54 cm |
| Overall Width | 171.96 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 232.92 cm |
| Standard Seating | 2 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 2.0-L L-4 DOHC 16V |
| Engine Size | 2L |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $26,710 USD |
| Invoice Price | $24,714 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $795 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Listings
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata Have?
- Rust: A common concern, particularly in areas where salt is used on roads. Inspect wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage for rust.
- Soft Top Issues: The soft top can develop tears or leaks over time. Proper maintenance and care are crucial.
- Oil Consumption: Some owners have reported increased oil consumption, especially at higher mileage. Regularly check the oil level.
- Clutch Problems: Premature clutch wear can occur, especially with aggressive driving.
- Wheel Bearing Failure: Some reports of wheel bearing issues, often indicated by a humming or grinding noise.
Recalls for the 2011 MX-5 Miata have been relatively minor. Check the NHTSA website for any specific recalls related to your VIN. Long-term reliability is generally good if the car is well-maintained. The engine and transmission are robust, but regular maintenance is key to preventing major issues. Addressing rust promptly is critical to preserving the car's structural integrity.
How long will the 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Entertainment:
- Standard: CD player, AM/FM radio
- Optional (higher trims): Bose premium audio system with subwoofer
Driver-Assistance: The 2011 MX-5 Miata lacks modern driver-assistance features like lane departure warning or blind-spot monitoring. It relies on the driver's awareness.
Safety Features:
- Standard: Antilock brakes (ABS), stability control, traction control, and dual front airbags.
- Optional: Side airbags (available on some trims).
Crash-Test Ratings: The 2011 MX-5 Miata received mixed crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. While it performed reasonably well in some tests, its small size and convertible body style inherently limit its crashworthiness compared to larger vehicles. Check the IIHS and NHTSA websites for specific ratings. The focus is on providing a fun driving experience rather than being packed with advanced tech or safety features.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata Prices and Market Value
2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata Cost of Ownership
2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata Fuel Efficiency
2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata Compare to Other Convertible?
- Performance: The Miata offers sharper, more balanced handling than the Mini. The S2000 has more power, but the Miata is more forgiving. The Z4 is heavier and less nimble.
- Features: The Miata lacks the modern tech and luxury features found in the Z4. The Mini offers more customization options. The S2000 is focused on performance.
- Reliability: The Miata is generally considered more reliable than the Z4. The S2000 has a strong reputation for reliability. The Mini's reliability can be variable.
- Price: The Miata is significantly more affordable than the Z4, especially on the used market. It's comparable in price to a used S2000, depending on condition. The Mini can be found for less.
A similar alternative could be a Fiat 124 Spider, which is based on the MX-5 platform but offers a different engine and styling. For pure performance at a similar price point, a used Honda S2000 might be considered, though finding a well-maintained example is key. The MX-5 strikes a great balance of affordability, reliability, and driving enjoyment.
Ranks #54 Convertible
| 1 | 2005 Toyota MR2 Spyder | (0.0★) |
| 2 | 2015 Lexus IS | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2009 Honda S2000 | (4.0★) |
| 4 | 2023 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF | (4.0★) |
| 5 | 2023 BMW 8 Series | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2021 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 7 | 2020 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class | (0.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Audi S5 Sportback | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Ferrari F8 Spider | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Porsche 718 Boxster | (4.0★) |
| 11 | 2021 Jeep Compass | (5.0★) |
| 12 | 2019 Buick Cascada | (0.0★) |
| 54 | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata a Good Convertible?
Carol and Joe on March 4, 2024
Likable2011 retractable hard top touring our fourth Miata to own gives us affordable driving enjoyment. Well designed and quality assembled Miata’s prove there will always be a market for small rear wheel drive manual shift sport cars. We like our Miata!
GrammaOne on April 15, 2021
What a fun car!This car is so much fun! Our favorite thing to so is joy ride through the mountains! We get compliments everywhere we go, and people watch us go by! I don't like it for long trips and I don't like it on the highway because the wind will whip you apart! Trunk is pretty spacious for the size!
muchomiata on July 15, 2019
There's nothing like this convertible!!!This car has been fantastic! We love the Miata so much that we have owned 3 through the years. It is affordable, dependable, sporty and so much fun. The automatic hard top is great if you get caught in the rain.
AZZoom on May 23, 2019
Love this fun, zippy car!!!This car is a blast to own! I've had it for almost 5 years. Fast off the gas, great gas mileage, love having a hard top, etc. My only complaint and the reason I'm selling is the bucket seats. My hip can't take them anymore.
Fat James on April 2, 2019
A pretty good car but has Mech problemsFor a low price convertible this car is a great deal. However, be prepared to fix the hard top motor multiple times at around $700 a pop. One time they fixed it it leaked and never didnt leak after. Struts were crazy expensive around $800 . Also dip stick was plastic (who engineered that??) and broke off in the engine. Ride is good and top is fantastic when it works . Looks great as well. So over all pretty good but expect some problems here and there.
Mailprovider2002 on November 20, 2018
Such a fun car to drive!This was such a fun car to drive and it handles so well,it also was great on gas and nice to look at! I would definitely buy another!
Miata_mama on September 13, 2017
A Pocket Rocket on RailsIf you want an exhilarating ride, reliability, a car you can feel free and in control of at the same time... this must be on your radar. Equipped with the retractable hardtop, heated seats and Bluetooth, this car has all you need to go topless most of the year.
propertieslady on July 6, 2017
fun zippy carthe car met my needs as far as a hard top convertible...fun to drive and have day trips... good commuter car as well, easy on gas...
HarleysList on April 28, 2017
ZOOM ZOOM Summer Fun in a Miata join the clubBrilliant Black Mazda Miata MX-5 Touring Convertible - Excellent condition/low miles (36,832) Very detailed. Asking price $ 19,300 One owner - never driven in winter. (garaged and covered) Added accessories: OEM Mazda Logo Bra, Chrome designer hood pins, Chrome accent door handles, Chrome accent mirror rings, Chrome accent headrests, Mirror inserts in headrests, Chrome keyhole on trunk, Chrome rear 3rd brake, Chrome sport antenna, Factory car cover included, Chrome tail light frames, Chrome windshield washer covers, Chrome quarter window trim, Chrome accent fender vents, Chrome Air Vent surrounds, Carpeted floor mats MX-5 lettering in RED Chrome front and rear Mazda Miata license plates, (Zoom Zoom) rear (Miata MX-5) front Original Window Sticker information: 2.0 L DOHC 16-valve 14 VVT engine 6 speed auto transmission with manual shift mode Rear wheel drive 158 horsepower 140 LB Ft torque Front and rear stabilizer bars Shock tower brace Aluminum power plant frame 17 inch alloy wheels 205/45R17 high performance tires Body colored front and rear bumpers Dual power remote door mirrors Aluminum hood and trunk lid Manual z-shape folding black vinyl convertible top 2 passenger seating Title leather steering wheel with cruise and audio controls Power door locks and windows Rear center console storage Driver seat height adjuster Mesh aero board Floor mats Anti-lock brakes with EBD Front ventilate disc brakes Rear solid disc brakes Electronic power assisted rack and pinion steering Front double wishbone suspension Rear multi-link suspension Chrome grille surround Halogen headlights Silver seat back bar trim Glass rear window with defogger Fog lights Dual exhaust outlets-silver Auxiliary audio input jack AM/FM/M3/6 disc CD changer Remote keyless entry system Leather shift knob Cloth trimmed seat upholstery Trip computer Auto dimming rearview mirror with homelink Advance dual front and side airbags Anti-theft engine immobilizer Side-impact door beams Tire pressure monitoring system Door edge guards Front/rear splash guards Wheel locks ULEVII emissions equipment
Ed on March 22, 2017
The sports car, and affordableWhat a deal a Miata is as a sports car! For the money, rare is a car such a great sports toy. Yes you might be lucky to be able to use it as a daily, depending on your weather, but don't forget - there's a hard top too! Tons of fun, tight and simple. Maintenance is affordable too!
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.