Pristine 1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata with Under 5,700 Miles Showcased at DFW Car & Toy Museum

The DFW Car & Toy Museum is currently exhibiting an exceptionally preserved 1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata with fewer than 5,700 original miles, representing a pristine example of the vehicle that redefined sports car accessibility and driving pleasure. This early-production NA Miata from the Ron Sturgeon Collection demonstrates why the model became an instant global phenomenon upon its 1989 launch, combining classic roadster spirit with Japanese reliability in a lightweight, perfectly balanced package that remains influential decades later.

The museum's acquisition matters because it preserves a critical piece of automotive history at its original condition, allowing visitors to experience the Miata exactly as it left the factory. This specific vehicle features the 1.6-liter DOHC inline-four engine producing 116 horsepower and 100 lb-ft of torque, connected to a five-speed manual transmission with optional limited-slip differential—the ideal configuration for the engaging driving dynamics that made the Miata legendary. The car retains all its original character with chrome exhaust tip, color-keyed bumpers and mirror caps, and signature pop-up headlights that define its timeless profile.

Inside, the cabin maintains period-correct features including a cassette stereo with headrest-integrated speakers and air conditioning upgraded to R134 refrigerant in 2021. The leather-wrapped steering wheel fronts a 140-mph speedometer, 8,000-rpm tachometer, and supporting gauges for fuel, oil pressure, and coolant temperature, preserving the authentic driving experience that made the Miata accessible to enthusiasts worldwide. The museum's presentation of this vehicle underscores the Miata's role in making pure driving enjoyment available to a broader audience, influencing sports car design for generations.

This exhibition is significant because low-mileage examples of first-generation Miatas are becoming increasingly rare as most were driven extensively, making this preservation exceptional for historical documentation. The vehicle's display at the DFW Car & Toy Museum, which houses over 200 collector cars and 3,000 vintage toys and artifacts, provides context for understanding the Miata's place in automotive evolution alongside other significant models. Visitors can explore this iconic sports car at the museum's North Fort Worth location, which offers free parking and admission while maintaining extensive climate-controlled facilities for preservation.