For sale is a 2003 MX5 Shinsen convertible 5 speed with a hardtop and convertible top with 43,737 miles in the standard Titanium Gray Metallic paint with blue seats. Both tops are black and in very good to excellent condition as is the overall condition of the car. The previous owner bought it from TX and was meticulous about mechanical and exterior maintenance (all WI records available). The interior has been detailed and has been gently used. There is however, a small tear in the driver’s seat, and the shift pattern is almost completely worn off the shifter. The stereo/CD player works great (Bose I believe came stock in these?) It has the original floor rugs with the Shinsen lettering that are in  good condition. The exterior paint is in excellent condition with a few minor scratches on the bumpers. No rust and stock wheels. The Shinsen emblems are intact & legible but the lettering is quite faded. Additionally, a switch has been installed on the battery by the previous owner. I’m not sure why, but I know if he wasn’t driving it for a few days he would “turn off” the battery.

I recently inherited this Miata and as much as I enjoy driving this car, it is impractical in my world. It is an absolute BLAST to drive, handles and sounds great!

I sincerely hope it brings as much joy to the next owner as it did my friend.

 

Here’s a few other details about this Miata & what makes it special:

·       Only about 1,451 were produced for the U.S. market.

·       “Shinsen” means “fresh” or “new” in Japanese.

·       It was essentially a premium appearance/performance package on the NB Miata.

What came on the Shinsen Edition:

·       Titanium Gray Metallic paint

·     Blue interior accents/seats

·       16-inch dark gunmetal wheels

·       Sport suspension from the LS/Sport package

·       Limited-slip differential on many examples

·       Bose audio

·       Cruise control and power options

 

Engine / Performance

The 2003 Miata uses the legendary:

·       1.8L DOHC inline-4

·       Around 142 horsepower

·       Rear-wheel drive

·       About 2,400 lbs

The magic of these cars is not raw power — it’s balance, steering feel, lightweight handling, and reliability. They’re considered one of the best “pure driver’s cars” ever made.