Have you ever heard a Miata zoom by and thought, “Wow, that sounds amazing!”? That distinctive rumble is often thanks to a well-chosen exhaust system. For owners of the beloved Mazda Miata NA, the exhaust is more than just a pipe; it’s a key part of the car’s personality. But if you’ve started looking for a new exhaust, you might have felt a little overwhelmed.
There are so many choices out there, and it’s tough to know which one will give you the sound you want without being too loud or costing too much. You might worry about making the wrong choice and ending up with an exhaust that doesn’t sound good or isn’t worth the money. We get it! It can be a real headache trying to figure out what’s best.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll have a clearer idea of what makes a great Miata NA exhaust. We’ll break down the different types, what to listen for, and what to avoid. Get ready to discover how to make your Miata sound as good as it looks!
Our Top 5 Miata Exhaust Na Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Miata Exhaust Na Detailed Reviews
1. Auto Dynasty 3.5 Inches Rolled Muffler Tip Catback Exhaust System Compatible with 1990-1997 Mazda Miata MX-5 1.6L 1.8L
Rating: 8.8/10
Want to give your 1990-1997 Mazda Miata MX-5 a boost in power and sound? The Auto Dynasty 3.5 Inches Rolled Muffler Tip Catback Exhaust System is designed to do just that. Made from strong stainless steel, this exhaust system is built to last. It aims to make your Miata sound sportier and perform better.
What We Like:
- It fits both 1.6L and 1.8L models of the 1990-1997 Mazda Miata MX-5.
- It can add 15-25 horsepower and improve low-end torque, making your car feel faster.
- The exhaust is made of high-quality T-304 stainless steel, which is strong and resists rust.
- Computer-controlled bending and TIG welding make it durable and able to handle pressure.
- Installation is straightforward with a direct bolt-on design; no drilling is needed.
- Gaskets and hardware are included, so you have everything you need.
- The 3.5-inch rolled tip gives your Miata a stylish, sporty look.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it promises increased horsepower, the actual gains might vary depending on your specific car and other modifications.
- Some users might prefer a more aggressive exhaust note, and this system’s sound level might be a personal preference.
This Auto Dynasty exhaust system is a solid choice for Miata owners looking for an upgrade. It offers a good balance of performance, quality, and ease of installation.
2. kitlspn Stainless Steel Cat-Back Exhaust System for 1990-1997 Mazda Miata MX-5 1.6L/1.8L with 3.5″ OD Tips Muffler
Rating: 8.9/10
Upgrade your 1990-1997 Mazda Miata MX-5 with the kitlspn Stainless Steel Cat-Back Exhaust System. This system is designed to give your 1.6L or 1.8L engine a richer sound and a sportier look. It features large 3.5″ OD tips for a bold statement.
What We Like:
- Sturdy and Durable: Made from high-quality stainless steel, this exhaust system is built to last. It resists impact and corrosion, so it stays strong for a long time.
- Superior Sound and Style: The performance muffler creates a mellow, deep, and smooth sound. The large 3.5″ tips make your Miata look cool and stylish.
- Easy to Install: This system is a direct fit. You can use exhaust clamps to bolt it on, or weld it for extra strength and stability.
- Performance Boost: The design helps your engine breathe better, which can improve performance.
What Could Be Improved:
- Compatibility Confusion: The product title mentions Mazda Miata, but the features list compatibility with Honda Prelude. This can be very confusing for buyers.
- Vague Tone Description: While it promises a “mellow, deep and smooth tone,” the exact sound quality can vary and might not be what everyone expects.
If you own a 1990-1997 Mazda Miata MX-5 and want to improve its sound and appearance, this exhaust system is a solid option. Just be sure to confirm the correct compatibility before purchasing.
3. Walker 75514 Exhaust Resonator and Pipe Assembly for Mazda MX-5 Miata
Rating: 9.2/10
The Walker 75514 Exhaust Resonator and Pipe Assembly is designed specifically for your Mazda MX-5 Miata. It’s built to bring back that original sound and performance to your car’s exhaust system. This assembly is made from tough steel, so it can handle the road and keep your Miata running smoothly.
What We Like:
- Installation is a breeze! The pipes are routed carefully, and it comes with the same kind of bolts, metal plates, and hangers that the factory uses. This makes putting it on quick and simple.
- It’s made from strong aluminized steel. This tough material helps protect the assembly from damage caused by rocks and other things on the road, so it lasts longer.
- You’ll get that classic factory sound. Special tubes inside help quiet down the noise, so your Miata sounds just like it did when it was new.
- This assembly is built to be strong and last. It has thick metal plates, bolts, and hangers, just like the original part, for extra durability.
- It’s made to fit and perform exactly like your car’s original exhaust system. You can count on it to work perfectly and give you many more miles of driving enjoyment.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the steel construction is durable, some enthusiasts might prefer stainless steel for even greater longevity and rust resistance, especially in harsh climates.
- The “factory sound” is great for many, but those seeking a sportier or louder exhaust note might find it too quiet.
This resonator and pipe assembly is a solid choice for restoring your Miata’s exhaust. It offers easy installation and a return to that beloved factory sound and performance.
4. Catback Exhaust Muffler System For Mazda Miata MX-5 1989-1993 1.6L Engine ONLY
Rating: 9.0/10
Ready to give your 1989-1993 Mazda Miata MX-5 with the 1.6L engine a brand new sound? This Catback Exhaust Muffler System is designed to do just that. It’s built tough with stainless steel, so it will last a long time. Plus, it’s made to fit your Miata perfectly without any tricky adjustments. You get a great sound and a cleaner look for your car.
What We Like:
- It’s made from strong stainless steel, which means it won’t rust easily and will last for many years.
- Installation is a breeze! It’s a direct bolt-on system, so you don’t need to cut or change anything on your car to put it on.
- The welding is done with TIG/MIG, which is a high-quality way to make sure it’s super strong and looks good.
- Everything you need to install it is included in the box, like the hardware.
What Could Be Improved:
- This system is only for the 1.6L engine. If you have a different engine size, this won’t fit.
- While it’s a great upgrade, some drivers might want even more aggressive sound options.
This exhaust system is a solid choice for Miata owners looking for an easy and reliable upgrade. It gives your classic Miata a better sound and a more robust feel.
5. BRExhaust Replacement Exhaust System Kit 106-0246: Compatible with 1990-1995 Mazda Miata 1.6L/1.8L
Rating: 8.5/10
The BRExhaust Replacement Exhaust System Kit 106-0246 is designed to give your 1990-1995 Mazda Miata 1.6L or 1.8L a fresh exhaust. It replaces all the parts from your last catalytic converter backward. This kit aims to be a durable and easy-to-install solution for your Miata’s exhaust needs.
What We Like:
- This kit is built to last. It offers strong resistance to rust and wear.
- Installation is made simple. The bolt-on design fits easily around obstacles. You don’t need to be a master mechanic to install it.
- Everything you need is in one box. It includes all the parts, gaskets, clamps, and hardware. Clear instructions are also provided.
- Your Miata will still pass emissions tests. This kit keeps all your original emissions equipment working.
- It comes with a great warranty. You get two years of coverage with unlimited miles.
What Could Be Improved:
- The kit only covers parts from the last catalytic converter back. If you need to replace parts further up the exhaust, this kit won’t cover that.
This BRExhaust kit offers a straightforward and robust way to replace your Miata’s exhaust system. It’s a solid choice for DIYers looking for a reliable and compliant upgrade.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: A Purrfect Choice for Your Miata NA
So, you’re looking to give your beloved Mazda Miata NA a little more rumble and a lot more personality? Upgrading your exhaust is one of the most satisfying ways to do it! This guide will help you pick the perfect NA Miata exhaust.
What to Look For: Key Features
When you’re shopping for an NA Miata exhaust, keep these important things in mind:
- Sound: This is a big one! Do you want a deep, throaty growl or a crisp, sporty bark? Different exhaust designs make different sounds. Read reviews and watch videos to hear how they sound.
- Performance: Some exhausts are designed to help your engine breathe better. This can give you a little extra horsepower and make your Miata feel zippier.
- Looks: The exhaust tip is what you see! Many options offer different shapes and finishes, like polished stainless steel or carbon fiber. Pick one that matches your Miata’s style.
- Fitment: Make sure the exhaust is made specifically for the Miata NA (1989-1997 models). A good fit means easy installation and no annoying rattles.
- Ease of Installation: Some exhausts are bolt-on, meaning you can install them yourself with basic tools. Others might require more work.
What’s it Made Of? Important Materials
The material your exhaust is made from matters a lot. It affects sound, durability, and even weight.
- Stainless Steel: This is the most common material. It’s strong, resists rust, and sounds great. Different grades of stainless steel exist, with T304 being a popular choice for its durability and corrosion resistance.
- Mild Steel: This is cheaper but rusts more easily. It might be coated to prevent rust, but it won’t last as long as stainless steel.
- Titanium: This is super lightweight and strong. It’s also very expensive. Titanium exhausts often have a unique, high-pitched sound.
Making it Better (or Worse!): Factors Affecting Quality
Several things can make an exhaust better or worse.
- Design and Engineering: A well-designed exhaust flows smoothly. This helps your engine perform better and makes the sound cleaner. Poorly designed ones can create unwanted drone or rasp.
- Welding Quality: Good welds are strong and neat. They prevent leaks and make the exhaust last longer. Bad welds can crack and cause problems.
- Muffler Design: The muffler is what controls the sound. Different types of mufflers (like chambered or straight-through) create different sound profiles.
- Pipe Diameter: The size of the pipes affects how air flows. Too small can choke the engine; too big can hurt low-end torque. Manufacturers usually choose a good diameter for the Miata NA.
Living with Your New Exhaust: User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you use your Miata.
- Daily Driver: If you drive your Miata every day, you want an exhaust that sounds good without being annoying on the highway. Look for something that doesn’t drone (a constant, irritating hum).
- Weekend Warrior/Track Car: If you take your Miata to car meets or the track, you might want a louder, more aggressive sound. Performance gains are also more important here.
- Show Car: For a show car, the look of the exhaust tip is crucial. Polished finishes and unique designs can really make your Miata stand out.
Having a new exhaust can transform your Miata experience. It makes every drive more exciting!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main Key Features to look for in an NA Miata exhaust?
A: The key features are the sound you want, how much performance gain you’re looking for, the looks of the exhaust tip, and ensuring it fits your specific Miata NA model correctly.
Q: What are the most important materials used in Miata NA exhausts?
A: Stainless steel is the most common and recommended material because it’s durable and resists rust. Titanium is also used for its light weight but is much more expensive.
Q: How does the design of an exhaust affect its quality?
A: A well-designed exhaust allows air to flow smoothly, which improves engine performance and creates a better sound. Poor design can lead to unwanted noise or reduced power.
Q: What is the difference between a loud and a quiet exhaust?
A: The muffler design controls the sound. Different internal structures in the muffler create louder or quieter exhaust notes. Straight-through mufflers are generally louder than chambered ones.
Q: Can an exhaust improve my Miata’s speed?
A: Yes, some exhausts are designed to help your engine breathe better, which can lead to a small increase in horsepower and make your Miata feel quicker.
Q: What is “drone” and how can I avoid it?
A: Drone is a constant, annoying humming sound that can happen at certain engine speeds, usually on the highway. Choosing an exhaust specifically designed for the Miata NA with good engineering can help avoid drone.
Q: Is it hard to install a new exhaust on my Miata NA?
A: Many exhausts are designed as “bolt-on” systems, meaning they replace the original exhaust parts directly. These are usually manageable for someone with basic tools and some mechanical knowledge.
Q: Will a louder exhaust make my Miata illegal?
A: Exhaust noise regulations vary by location. While some aftermarket exhausts are louder, it’s important to check your local laws to ensure your chosen exhaust is street legal.
Q: How long do stainless steel exhausts typically last?
A: A good quality stainless steel exhaust, especially one made from T304 stainless steel, can last for many years, often the lifetime of the car, with proper care.
Q: Where can I hear what different NA Miata exhausts sound like?
A: Many exhaust manufacturers have sound clips on their websites. You can also find many videos on platforms like YouTube where owners showcase their Miata NA exhaust systems.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Hector Quintanilla, the creator of helmetslab.com.. As a passionate enthusiast and experienced expert in helmets, I’ve dedicated this platform to sharing my insights, knowledge, and hands-on experiences. Whether you’re seeking the best helmet for safety, comfort, or performance, my goal is to guide you with detailed reviews, tips, and advice. Ride safe, and let’s explore the world of helmets together!