At first glance, this Mazda MX-5 Miata NC could pass any used roadster of the generation produced between 2005 and 2015. The surprise comes when the cap is opened and a 3.0-litre V6 related to Jaguar is discovered.
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The transformation takes the signature of Rocketeer, a British company that found in the third Miata an interesting basis for a rather particular preparation.
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The result exceeds 300 horsepower and reaches 265 lb-pie torque, but power is not the only goal of the project.
Rocketeer modified the set to get the propulsor to be delayed enough inside the engine compartment. The intention is to maintain a weight distribution close to 50:50, something fundamental in a car whose attractiveness has always been more related to balance and agility than to having an enormous power figure.
The V6 works atmospherically, without turbocharging or supercharger.The preparation also includes a carbon fiber-made admission collector and a high-flow exhaust system.
The combination makes the NC a quite different car without completely abandoning the philosophy that characterizes the MX-5.
The chosen engine comes from the 3.0-litre Ford Duratec V6 family and is related to Jaguar’s applications, including the S-Type. Its aluminum construction helped Rocketeer to use it in a conversion where control of weight was especially important.
The idea was not just to install a larger engine and look for the maximum power possible. The preparation was to preserve the behavior of the Miata and prevent the increase in benefits from ending up damaging his balance.
The result is a curious combination, with a lightweight Japanese chassis, a Jaguar-related V6 and a preparation developed in the UK.
Rocketeer does not initially sell the project as a kit to mount in the garage.The complete conversion must be carried out at its facilities in Hampshire, UK, or through authorized installers.
The full package starts at approximately $28,000, including the transformation of the engine and other original Mazda components. The company also sells the engines separately, with prices starting from about $8,000 equivalent for a lower power configuration. Facilities are available in the United Kingdom, the United States and Australia.
So, a Miata NC that for a long time remained in the shadow of other generations of the model finds a second chance. It doesn’t need an extravagant body to attract attention. Just open the hood and find out that underneath works a Jaguar-related V6 of origin.
