# Cylinder compression — maximum difference (NA8)

Canonical URL: https://miatatorque.com/spec/engine-compression-cylinder-difference-na8/

Applicability: NA 1994–1997 (BP) — Other years inferred from 1994 factory evidence.

Confidence: fsm

196 kPa {2.0 kgf/cm², 28 psi} maximum difference

Always confirm against your factory manual. Match every restriction and follow all stages and procedure notes. Disputed claims must not be automatically resolved. The complete record below preserves every printed unit, source claim and procedure.

```json
{
  "id": "engine-compression-cylinder-difference-na8",
  "name": "Cylinder compression — maximum difference (NA8)",
  "aliases": [],
  "applies_to": [
    {
      "gen": "NA",
      "years": [
        1994,
        1997
      ],
      "engines": [
        "BP"
      ],
      "note": "Other years inferred from 1994 factory evidence."
    }
  ],
  "kind": "non-torque",
  "value_text": "196 kPa {2.0 kgf/cm², 28 psi} maximum difference",
  "procedure": {
    "notes": "Fully charged battery; warm engine to normal operating temperature, then turn off. Remove all spark plugs, disconnect ignition-coil connector, connect compression gauge and crank with accelerator fully depressed. Record maximum reading at 300 rpm for each cylinder."
  },
  "confidence": "fsm",
  "sources": [
    {
      "source": "fsm-1994",
      "page": "B–10 (PDF p. 47)",
      "as_printed": "Differential limit between cylinders:\n196 kPa {2.0 kgf/cm², 28 psi}",
      "verified_years": [
        1994,
        1994
      ],
      "document": {
        "id": "fsm-1994",
        "tier": 1,
        "title": "1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata Workshop Manual",
        "covers": [
          {
            "gen": "NA",
            "years": [
              1994,
              1997
            ],
            "engines": [
              "BP"
            ]
          }
        ],
        "note": "Mazda's base manual for 1994–97; later model years got supplements, which we haven't checked yet."
      }
    }
  ],
  "jobs": [],
  "system": "engine",
  "component": "inventory-pass-2026-10",
  "componentName": "Service measurements and fasteners",
  "sequence_diagrams": [],
  "url": "https://miatatorque.com/spec/engine-compression-cylinder-difference-na8/"
}
```