Miatas in Pop Culture Pt 1.

Eiginber Belarmino
September 11, 2024

The Mazda MX-5 Miata, our beloved compact, lightweight roadster, has charmed car enthusiasts since its debut in 1989. Being a true driver’s car and having that undeniably distinct look, the Miata quickly became a cultural icon, appearing in numerous films, TV shows, and music videos. Let us explore ten notable instances where the Miata made a memorable appearance, solidifying its place in pop culture.

Blink-182: The Rock Show

1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata [NA]

In Blink-182’s music video for “The Rock Show,” a red 1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata can be seen multiple times and later meets a dramatic end in the chaotic music video. As part of the band’s antics, the Miata is hoisted into the air by a crane and then dropped to the ground, only to be backed into by a van moments later. A perfect showcase of the rebellious spirit of the song and the video’s carefree attitude, but at the expense of our beloved little roadster.

Fast Girl (2008)

1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata [NA]

Fast Girl is a lesser-known film that focuses on the life of a young woman who dreams of becoming a professional race car driver. Throughout the movie, Mircea Monroe can be frequently seen driving a white 1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata. This can be seen as a simple play on the “feminine” stereotype that the Miata has in the car community. But as the movie is about a girl stepping into a male-dominated sport. The car’s compact, agile nature parallels the protagonist’s situation perfectly.

Crash (1996)

1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata [NA]

In David Cronenberg’s eyebrow raising film Crash, the Miata appears in an iconic, if not controversial, scene where it becomes part of a harrowing car crash. The 1990 NA Miata is used by one of the characters in a scene that displays the film’s absurd exploration of the concept between sexuality and car accidents. The movie may have weirdness down to its core, but the Miata stays iconic. Poor little Miata sacrificed for this terrible movie though.

Paranormal Activity (2007)

2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata [NC]

A 2007 Mazda Miata plays an often overlooked in the horror mockumentary Paranormal Activity. The car is owned by the main characters, Katie and Micah, and is seen in several scenes, including one where it adds to the tension by being the subject of a mysterious event. The Miata is often overlooked in this movie because of its appearance only in the movie’s day scenes which is probably skipped by most viewers.

Robo-Dog (2015)

Mazda MX-5 Miata [NC]

Robo-Dog is a family-friendly movie where a 2007 NC Miata is driven by Mr. Sato, a quirky character played by Alvin Aki. The Miata perfectly matches Mr. Sato’s eccentric personality, with its compact size and playful design. The car is featured in several lighthearted scenes which only emphasizes the car’s playful and dependable characteristics.

Drake & Josh (2004-2007)

2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata [NB]

In the popular TV series Drake & Josh, a 2001 NB Miata is featured in Season 2, Episode 14, where it belongs to Mrs. Hayfer, the strict and often comical teacher. In a memorable scene, the Miata is hilariously found parked inside a classroom, leading to Drake being wrongfully accused of a prank. The Miata’s appearance in this episode adds to the show’s comedic elements, with its small size making the absurd situation even funnier.

Looper (2012)

1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata [NA]

Looper is a sci-fi thriller set in a dystopian future, where time travel is used by criminal organizations to eliminate targets. In this film, the iconic NA Miata is featured in a thrilling chase scene that perfectly shows the car’s cornering speed. The Miata’s inclusion in a futuristic context is intriguing, as it contrasts with the film’s darker, more advanced setting. The car’s vintage appeal and tame looks make it a standout element in the movie. It only goes to show the timeless nature of the Miata as a fun and reliable vehicle.

China, IL (2011-2015)

Mazda MX-5 Miata [NA]

China, IL is an animated series known for its absurd humor and eccentric characters. In this show, a Mazda MX-5 Miata is regularly driven by one of the main characters, The Miata’s frequent appearances in the series highlight its association with fun, quirkiness and its cheap cost, making it an ideal fit for the show’s quirky and offbeat tone. The car’s role in China, IL further cements its status as a cultural icon that resonates with a lot of different people. (They even made a little song about our little roadster!)

MacGruber (2010)

1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata [NA]

MacGruber is a comedic action film that parodies the 1980s action genre, and it features a 1996 Mazda MX-5 as the titular character’s personal vehicle. The Miata’s inclusion in the film adds to the humor, as it contrasts with the tough-guy persona that MacGruber tries to project. The car’s small size and “feminine” design play into the film’s over-the-top comedy, making it an integral part of the character’s ridiculous antics. The Miata in MacGruber is a rare example of how a car can be used to enhance comedic elements in storytelling.


Cars (2006)

1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata [NA]

Not but not the least, in the animated movie Cars, two twin Miatas named Mia and Tia are part of the crowd of fans of Lightning McQueen. These characters which are most likely inspired by the 1990 NA Miata are portrayed as (more than) enthusiastic fans who idolize Lightning. Their playful nature and small size make them very distinct looking characters in the film. The Miatas’ appearance in Cars is a nod to the car’s cultural impact, as they are depicted as lively, spirited vehicles that embody the fun and excitement of driving.

Miatas in Pop Culture

Beyond these ten examples, the Mazda MX-5 Miata has made numerous other appearances in pop culture,Whether in movies, TV shows, or music videos, the Miata consistently represents freedom, fun, and the joy of driving it truly is a people’s car. Its enduring popularity in media reflects its widespread appeal and the strong emotional connection it fosters with audiences, especially from its owners. The Mazda MX-5 Miata’s presence in pop culture is a testament to its lasting impact and beloved status among car enthusiasts and the general public alike!!!

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