NB Miata Body Kit: What You Need to Know

Tuning up your NB Miata with a cool body kit is a great way to make it look unique. These kits can totally change the style of your car, giving it a much more aggressive or sleek look.

But before you rush into painting and switching up those new parts, you need to be ready. Installing a body kit can be tricky! To get that perfect, factory-finished appearance, you need the right preparation and know-how.

Tip #1: Check the Fit Before Painting

You might get excited to see your new body kit parts looking great out of the box, but remember: you have to check them on the car first. This is called a “dry fit” or “test fit.” Mount every piece—from the front bumper to side skirts and rear parts—onto your NB Miata before applying any paint. Look for gaps, uneven edges, or places where the part does not sit right against the car’s body.

Painting the parts first then finding a poor fit means a much harder and more expensive fix. So make sure everything fits perfectly before moving to the next step.

Tip #2: Clean and Prep the Surface

A new body kit will only look good if it sticks properly to a clean surface. Before installing anything, thoroughly wash the areas where the new parts will attach. This includes removing all dirt, grease, and wax. You can use a high-quality degreaser or automotive wax remover to ensure the surface is sparkling clean. Any leftover grime will keep the adhesive from bonding correctly, so a clean surface is a must if you want a strong, lasting bond.

Tip #3: Take Your Time with Drilling

Most body kits require you to drill new holes into your car’s panels. Take note: measure twice and drill once. The body kit should come with a template that you can use as a guide. If not, you can use the body kit part itself as a guide.

Start with a smaller drill bit to create a pilot hole, then use the final size needed for your hardware. Take your time and don’t rush, as this can result in drilling a hole in the wrong spot, ruining your car’s panel. Slow, careful drilling ensures the part lines up perfectly.

Tip #4: Sand and Prepare the Kit’s Surface

New body kit parts typically have a rough or inconsistent surface finish from the factory. Before painting, make sure you sand and prime the surface. Use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out any tiny imperfections or mold marks. Then, apply an automotive-grade primer. This will help the paint stick better and create a uniform color base. It’s a crucial step for achieving a deep, glossy, and professional-looking paint job that matches your NB Miata.

Tip #5: Allow Adhesives and Sealants to Cure

After you’ve attached the parts using adhesives or sealants, you have to give them enough time to fully cure or dry. This can take anywhere from 24 to 72 hours, depending on the product and the temperature. It’s important not to drive your NB Miata during this period, especially in the rain or at high speeds. The adhesive needs time to settle and reach its full strength; waiting patiently ensures your body kit is secured permanently and won’t suddenly come loose.

FAQs

Is NA or NB Miata better?

Generally, the NB Miata is considered a better car because it is more refined, has better safety features (like airbags), and is slightly more powerful. On the other hand, the NA Miata is typically called the better Miata because of its purer, more raw driving feel and the iconic pop-up headlights. The “better” one really depends on your preference.

What does NB mean on a Miata?

“NB” is the chassis code Mazda uses to identify the second generation of the Mazda MX-5 Miata produced from 1998 to 2005. The first letter, “N,” refers to the Miata model line, and the second letter, “B,” indicates the second generation.

How much horsepower does the NB Miata have?

The standard NB Miata with the 1.8L engine typically has between 140 to 142 horsepower, depending on the specific model year and market.

Level Up Your NB Miata with Premium Body Kits from R Theory Motorsports

Ready for a complete upgrade? R Theory Motorsports offers premium NB Miata body kits designed for your dream vehicle style. Contact us today and start installing the ultimate body kit to level up your ride!