One-Family-Owned 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata M Edition 5-Speed

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

The first-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata helped reignite interest in lightweight, affordable roadsters when it debuted for the 1990 model year, drawing inspiration from classic British sports cars with a twist of Mazda reliability. Its front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout and responsive handling made it a quick success, establishing the Miata as the new benchmark for small sports cars and earning a long-standing reputation as one of the most enjoyable driver-focused vehicles of its era.

Initially introduced in 1994, the M Edition trim package created a more exclusive, well-optioned Miata. The M Edition cars came in specific color combinations, depending on the model year, so that they would stand out even in a crowd of Miatas. The 1997 Mazda Miata M Edition marked the final M Edition of the first-generation Miata. A reported 3,002 units were produced for the 1997 model year.

Said to have remained in the seller's family since new, this 1997 Mazda Miata M Edition is equipped with a 1.8L DOHC 16-valve inline-four cylinder engine and a 5-speed manual transmission. It is finished in Marina Green Mica, with a tan leather interior, the only color combination available on M Editions for 1997. As an M Edition, features include a Torsen limited-slip rear differential, Nardi shift knob and parking brake handle, headrest speakers, air conditioning, and power windows and mirrors.

The car has remained with the seller since 2011, and the timing belt and water pump were last replaced in 2025.

This 1997 Mazda Miata M-Edition is now offered with a clean CARFAX Vehicle History Report and a clean Indiana title in the seller's name.

Highlights

• One-family-owned Miata M Edition

• 1.8L DOHC 16-valve inline-four cylinder engine

• 5-speed manual transmission

• Nardi wood shift knob and Nardi wood parking brake handle

• Torsen limited-slip differential

Factory Equipment

• Marina Green Mica paint

• Polished 15-inch six-spoke alloy wheels

• M Edition exterior badges

• Sport-tuned exhaust

• Power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes

• Tan leather seats with M Edition embroidered seat backs

• Leather-wrapped steering wheel

• M Edition tachometer

• Cassette/CD player

• Headrest speakers and door-mounted tweeters

• Power windows and mirrors

• Cruise control and intermittent windshield wipers

• Full center console with lockable storage and dual cup holders

Modifications

• Whip antenna

Known Imperfections

• Rust on the passenger's side rocker panel

• Dent in the driver's side fender

• Faded paint

• Interior wear

• Images detailing this 1997 Mazda Miata's condition are available in the gallery

Servicing & Documentation

According to the included clean CARFAX Vehicle History Report, the following was performed:

• August 2025:

  • Alternator replaced

  • Oil and filter changed

  • Serpentine belt replaced

  • Timing belt replaced

  • Valve cover gasket(s) replaced

  • Water pump gasket replaced

  • Water pump replaced

Ownership History

The seller acquired this vehicle in 2011.

The clean CARFAX Vehicle History Report begins in 1997 and shows registration history in Tennessee, Maryland, Ohio, and Indiana with some reporting gaps.

Additional Information

The seller states "It was originally purchased by my older sister new. She sold it to another sister who then sold it to me when she had a son. It's always been in the family. It drives great like all Miatas do. I am selling because I just purchased a 2020 Miata. "Top was replaced. New water pump and radiator in past year. There is rust as shown in pictures and a dent above driver's side front wheel well."