These are the models you’ve probably heard of but will likely never own. From the experimental M2 Miatas to concept cars like the NC Superlight, this is a journey through Mazda’s most exclusive creations. Buckle up, and let’s dive in!
If you’ve ever been part of an online car group, you know the thrill of finding a rare part or story. Recently, the team was scrolling through a rare Miata parts group and came across an M2 1001 gauge cluster listed for $2,500. That’s right, just the gauge cluster was priced like a decent used car. Seeing that got me thinking about the M2 Miatas and other limited-edition or prototype Miatas that have achieved legendary status among enthusiasts. These cars aren’t just rare, they’re pieces of Mazda’s history.
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This article explores the rarest Miatas ever produced, including:
Each of these models tells a story of creativity and innovation, and by the end, you’ll understand why they’ve earned their spot in Miata lore.
M2 was a specialized division of Mazda that operated between 1991 and 1995. Think of it as Mazda’s version of a “skunkworks” team, a group of engineers given the freedom to experiment and create enthusiast-focused vehicles. Their work wasn’t bound by traditional production constraints, resulting in some of the most exciting and innovative Miatas ever made.
The M2 1001 was the first and arguably the most iconic car to come out of M2. It was built for pure driving pleasure, stripping away unnecessary features and adding performance-focused upgrades.
Under the hood, the M2 1001 featured a tuned 1.6-liter engine with aggressive pistons, camshafts, and a lightweight flywheel. The drivetrain was equally hardcore, with manual steering, manual windows, and an optional air conditioning system. The car also came with a Torsen limited-slip differential, ensuring razor-sharp handling.
The interior was minimal but distinctive, with fixed-back bucket seats, a bespoke Momo steering wheel, and the now-legendary gauge cluster. On the exterior, the M2 1001 sported retro-style mirrors, a polished aluminum strut brace, and 15-inch Panasport wheels that gave it a classic racing vibe.
Only 300 units were made, and buying one wasn’t as simple as visiting a dealership. Buyers had to travel to M2’s headquarters in Tokyo to register and secure their car, making it as much a personal experience as a purchase.
Following the raw, track-focused M2 1001, Mazda introduced the M2 1002, which leaned toward luxury. While it retained much of the performance DNA of the 1001, it featured a more refined interior, with plush materials and upgraded finishes. Interestingly, leftover interior components from the 1002 were later used in the Tokyo Limited Miata, adding another layer of intrigue to its legacy.
If the M2 1001 and 1002 were about enhancing the Miata’s core identity, the M2 1006 was a complete departure. This prototype featured a Mazda 929 24-valve V6 engine, paired with an RX-7 rear subframe and aggressively flared rear quarter panels to fit 245-mm-wide tires. It was a bold attempt to reimagine what a Miata could be, but the complexity and cost of production meant it never made it to market. Still, the 1006 stands as a fascinating “what if” in Miata history.
Mazda only built one NA Miata Coupe, and it was showcased at the 1996 New York Auto Show. Designed by Tom Matano, this car featured a seamlessly integrated fiberglass roof and body panels. While the coupe added a bit of weight, the result was a unique aesthetic that made it look like the Miata was always meant to be a coupe.
Today, the NA Coupe is preserved in Mazda’s Heritage Collection in Irvine, California, where it serves as a reminder of what could have been.
Unlike the NA Coupe, the NB Coupe actually went into limited production. Mazda built just 179 units, all exclusively for the Japanese market. The NB Coupe featured a steel roof, improved structural rigidity, and came in four trims. The Type S trim, with its 158-horsepower 1.8-liter engine and six-speed manual transmission, is especially coveted by enthusiasts.
The NB Coupe is a perfect blend of Miata DNA and hardtop practicality, making it one of the most desirable limited-production models ever.
The Club Racer was a heavily modified pre-production Miata unveiled at the 1989 Chicago Auto Show. With its wide rear fenders, aero headlights, and racing-style front bumper, this car wasn’t just a display piece, it was used for testing and research. Inside, it had crude door panels and unique HVAC controls, emphasizing its prototype status.
Mazda experimented with six Miatas painted in experimental colors: Raspberry Metallic, Medium Blue, Yellow Metallic, Teal Green Metallic, Light Green Metallic, and Orange (known as “Sunkist”). These cars were used for testing purposes and were never sold to the public.
The Sunkist Miata, in particular, has an almost mythical status. It survived a major accident, was rebuilt, and then vanished, adding to its intrigue.
To celebrate the Miata’s 20th anniversary, Mazda created the NC Superlight concept. This car was all about weight reduction, tipping the scales at just 2,100 pounds. It featured no windshield, no A-pillars, and extensive use of carbon fiber. While it was never intended for production, the NC Superlight remains a favorite among enthusiasts who value lightweight design.
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