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In car communities worldwide, there’s a certain amount of affection between people who own the same vehicle. Acknowledging that another driver has the same car and understands the ins and outs of owning that particular vehicle is an excellent source of camaraderie. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the relationship between drivers of the Mazda Miata MX-5. It is so specific that Miata drivers have their signal to acknowledge one another, known as the Miata Wave.
There are a few different ways to do the Miata Wave, but a simple hand wave will do it for the most part. However, if you have a first-generation Miata MX-5 NA, you can move the retractable pop-up headlights up and down. However you decide to do the Miata Wave, it can be a great way to feel a sense of kinship with your fellow drivers out on the road. You can connect with Miata drivers all over by understanding where the Miata Wave came from and how it is used.
Where Did the Miata Wave Originate?
While the Miata Wave has no direct origin, drivers with the same car have been waving to one another for many years. The reason that the Miata Wave became popular, though, probably has to do with the uniqueness of the vehicle itself. When the Mazda Miata MX-5 debuted in 1989, it immediately gained a strong following for its small size, low curb weight, and sporty driving feel. Because of its unique style, Miata drivers began to recognize an appreciation for the vehicles in one another.
Over the years, the Miata MX-5 became known for its open-air driving, sporty handling, and small size, which set it apart from other vehicles. This was especially true in the late ‘90s and early 2000s, when big SUVs by Hummer, Ford, and Cadillac took over the American car landscape. The Miata Wave became an acknowledgment for drivers who went against the grain and appreciated the MX-5 for what it was instead of succumbing to the trends of the time.
Is the Miata Wave Only for the MX-5?
The version of the Miata Wave that involves retractable headlights will be limited to the first generation of the MX-5, but other than that, there is no reason that you can’t wave to someone who has the same taste in cars as you do. In today’s digital communication and text messaging age, it is always nice to have a human connection with someone out in the world. This is especially true if you drive a unique vehicle with distinct characteristics specific to a certain kind of person.
Several other vehicles are popular enough to warrant a wave from drivers of the same vehicle. Jeeps, Corvettes, Volkswagen Beetles, and certain types of motorcycles are all known for eliciting waves from other drivers. If you have a distinct car that is uncommon on the road or made for a specific purpose, don’t be surprised if you get a wave from the driver when you see another one out in the world. All it means is that they appreciate your taste and recognize the vehicle's uniqueness.
What Are the Rules of the Miata Wave?
There are no hard and fast rules for the Miata Wave, but there are ways to do it safely and effectively. Most of the time, slightly raising your hand off the steering wheel will be enough to initiate the wave and elicit a response from the other driver. This can happen while passing on the road or waiting at a stoplight across from one another. The wave can also come in many forms, including a hand gesture, a peace sign, or, in the case of a first-generation Miata, a raising and lowering of the headlights. As long as you can do the Miata Wave safely, it can be done anytime.
The important thing to remember when doing the Miata Wave is that there is no pressure for you or the other driver. The wave is simply a way to acknowledge a passion for the MX-5, not a concrete obligation. If you cannot wave safely or don’t see another driver’s wave until it is too late, you do not have to feel guilty about missing it. The wave is simply a lighthearted way to appreciate your vehicle and the vehicles of others when out on the road.
What Does the Miata Wave Really Mean?
The Miata Wave is a unique and fun way to show appreciation for your vehicle and the driving enjoyment you get from it. It is rare to come across someone who is passionate about the same thing you are. Because of this, the chance to have a nice, human moment should not be passed up if possible. The Miata Wave is a great way to show other drivers that you see them and appreciate their good taste in vehicles.
The main thing that the Miata Wave means is a connection to a tradition that drivers of these cars have enjoyed for 35 years. If you want to have a sense of identity within the community of Miata enthusiasts, a simple wave or gesture with your hand can go a long way. By making that connection, you can feel more in tune with the world and the greater community with little effort. By knowing what the Miata Wave is and what it means, you can make those connections whenever you see another MX-5 out in the world.
JEGS: For All Your Automotive Needs
As a Miata owner, taking pride in your vehicle’s performance and appearance is as important as connecting with fellow enthusiasts. When you want the very best parts and accessories for your Miata, JEGS has you covered. Feel free to browse our extensive product selection and have your items sent straight to your door.
