How to decide when to change gears?

I have an 03 MX-5 Mazda Miata and it's my manual. Does anyone know at what RPM to change gears in; like from first to second to third to fourth to fifth?How to decide when to change gears?
change whenever you like. just do it before the rev limiter and after about 1400rpm (the engine will struggle otherwise). if you want economy, change at 2500rpm.



there is nothing wrong with giving your car a good rev occasionally. it wont do it any harm. you often hear people claim it will destroy everything, but its just not the case. in the case of your mx-5, its a sports car. its what it was designed to do.



so go out, have fun and give it the beans. but be safe at the same time!



vHow to decide when to change gears?
3000-3500
For up shifting run it up to as close to 6800 rpm as you can stand. Most Miata drivers never find out how quick they are because they shift at 3500 maybe 4000. The Miata is not a Chevy and should not be treated as such. It thrives in the 5 grand to 6.5 grand range.

As far as down shifting, try not to drop it down too soon as over reving can occur. Also, while engine braking is a thrill, the Miata does not respond well to such technique's. A smooth throttle and gentle braking is preferred, if you want the best times through the curves.
Oh, man - did that last guy ever hit it on the head. Miatas NEED to be shifted high. All the best torque is up past 5 grand, and you will not at all hurt this engine with shifts that high.



If you're grannying the car, shift around 3500-4000. If you're driving like you want to enjoy the car, get that tach up past 5, and start flicking that shifter.