Miata Header

Your Miata

YearTransmission

Pick your year so we only show parts that fit your car.

There was no 1998 Miata in the US. The NB model started as a 1999.

+4–8 whp (est.)

Medium$450–$6503–4 hrs

All Miata mods

Why do it

One of the better natural-aspiration gains on the 1.8.

Heads up

Racing Beat's headers fit manual-transmission cars only and aren't CARB approved, so they can't be shipped to California or Colorado. Check your state's rules.

Tools you'll need

Jack stands
Socket set with long extensions
Penetrating oil
New manifold gasket
O2 sensor socket

Parts to buy

Racing Beat header, 1994–1997 (56006) Manual transmission only.Fits 1994–1997 manual
Racing Beat header, 2001–2005 non-turbo (56008) Manual transmission only.Fits 2001–2005 manual (not Mazdaspeed)

Always double-check fitment for your exact year, trim and transmission before buying. Prices change. ModBuddy doesn't earn money from these links.

Steps

Soak all manifold nuts in penetrating oil, ideally the night before.
With everything cold, remove the heat shield and the O2 sensor.
Unbolt the stock manifold from the head and the downpipe.
Install the header with a new gasket and torque to spec.
Reinstall the O2 sensor and check for exhaust leaks.

Safety first

Park on flat, solid ground, set the parking brake and chock the wheels.
Use jack stands rated for your car. Never get under a car held up only by a jack.
Let the engine and exhaust cool completely before touching them.
Disconnect the negative battery terminal before unplugging sensors or electrical parts.
Wear safety glasses, and gloves around sharp heat shields and hot fluids.
Tighten bolts to the torque spec in your factory service manual.
If a step doesn't match your car or you're unsure, stop and ask a shop.

These are overview steps written to help you plan the job. Always follow the instructions that come with your part and the procedures and torque specs in your factory service manual. Horsepower is an estimate; results vary.