2013 Mazda MX-5 III (NC, facelift 2012) Hardtop Dimensions, Size & Specs

The 2013 Mazda MX-5 III (NC facelift hardtop) has a curb weight between 1150 kg and 1165 kg (approximately 2,535 to 2,568 lbs). This relatively low weight supports the car’s famed nimble handling and responsive driving experience. A lighter curb weight enhances acceleration, braking, and cornering capabilities, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts for its pure roadster feel. Additionally, the maximum weight (gross vehicle weight) is 1375 kg (3,031 lbs), which includes passengers and cargo.

The luggage capacity of the 2013 Mazda MX-5 III (NC facelift hardtop) is 150 liters (about 5.3 cubic feet). While this is typical for a small roadster, it is limited compared to larger sports cars or coupes. This space is sufficient for light travel such as a weekend trip with a small suitcase or groceries, but it's not ideal for carrying bulky items or multiple passengers' luggage. The hardtop design slightly reduces storage space compared to the soft-top versions, but the car remains practical for daily driving where minimal cargo is needed.

The ride height, or ground clearance, of the 2013 Mazda MX-5 III (NC facelift hardtop) stands at 136 mm (5.35 inches). This relatively low ground clearance helps enhance aerodynamic efficiency and cornering stability, contributing to the car’s sporty handling characteristics. However, it also means the MX-5 should be driven carefully over speed bumps, rough roads, or steep driveways to avoid scraping the underside. This balance between low center of gravity and practicality is typical for compact sports roadsters.

Yes, the 2013 Mazda MX-5 III hardtop can comfortably fit inside a standard home garage. Standard garages typically measure around 2400 mm (94.5 inches) wide and 4800 to 5500 mm (189 to 216 inches) long. At 4020 mm (158.3 inches) in length and 1720 mm (67.7 inches) in width, the MX-5 is compact enough for easy storage with ample room to open doors and maneuver around the car, making it very convenient for home parking with no need for custom space modifications.

Compared to its predecessor, the NC soft-top (2006–2012), the 2013 Mazda MX-5 III hardtop maintained very similar overall dimensions. Both have a length of approximately 4020 mm (158.3 inches) and a width close to 1720 mm (67.7 inches). However, the hardtop version is typically slightly taller, between 1245 and 1255 mm (49.0–49.4 inches), to accommodate the folding metal roof mechanism, compared to the soft-top’s slightly lower profile. The curb weight is marginally higher for the hardtop due to the additional roof structure, by around 20 to 40 kg (44 to 88 lbs). This results in a very familiar driving experience with minor dimensional changes primarily focused on roof design.

In comparison to similar sports cars such as the Toyota GT86 and Subaru BRZ, the 2013 Mazda MX-5 III hardtop is notably smaller and lighter. The GT86 and BRZ are approximately 4240 mm long (167 inches) and wider at around 1775 mm (69.9 inches), making the MX-5 about 220 mm (8.7 inches) shorter and 55 mm (2.2 inches) narrower. The MX-5 also weighs roughly 1150-1165 kg (2535-2568 lbs), which is significantly lighter than the GT86/BRZ that weigh around 1250-1300 kg (2755-2866 lbs). These differences mean the MX-5 offers a more nimble, agile driving experience focused on lightweight dynamics, while the GT86 and BRZ provide a slightly larger cabin and different balance favoring stability and power.

The 2013 Mazda MX-5 III hardtop is a true two-seater designed primarily for driver engagement and sportiness rather than spaciousness. Interior space is snug, designed to fit two adults comfortably but with limited headroom and legroom compared to larger cars. The hardtop slightly affects interior height but does not significantly change occupant comfort. Seats are typically supportive with bolstering suited for spirited driving. While not ideal for larger passengers or long-distance comfort, the MX-5 offers a driver-focused cabin that balances sporty seating position with a compact, lightweight environment.

The 2013 Mazda MX-5 III hardtop (NC facelift) offers several advantages compared to the soft-top version. The fixed metal roof provides better insulation against cold and noisy conditions, enhancing year-round usability and security. It also adds structural rigidity, which can improve handling slightly. On the downside, the hardtop version is slightly heavier by approximately 20 to 40 kg (44 to 88 lbs), has a higher roofline which can marginally affect aesthetics and aerodynamics, and reduces rear luggage space to 150 liters (5.3 cubic feet) due to roof mechanism intrusion. The soft-top, while noisier and less insulated, is lighter and offers the classic open-air roadster experience, which many purists prefer.

The maximum weight capacity (gross vehicle weight) of the 2013 Mazda MX-5 III hardtop is 1375 kg (3,031 lbs). This includes the curb weight of the car, passengers, luggage, and any additional cargo. Given the curb weight of approximately 1150-1165 kg (2,535-2,568 lbs), this means the car can safely carry about 210 to 225 kg (463 to 496 lbs) of combined passenger and cargo weight. This capacity is adequate for two average adults plus light luggage or gear but highlights the importance of careful load management to maintain optimal handling and safety. Overloading the car can adversely affect suspension, braking, and road holding.