V8 power for Mazda MX-5
If you thought the new MX-5 was underpowered, Flyin' Miata in the US can helpFor almost three decades the chief engineers at Mazda have stuck to the MX-5's ethos of low weight and low power to deliver an affordable and fun driving experience, and the recipe works – making the compact roadster the world's most successful two-seat sports car, with more than a million vehicles in 27 years.
But what happens when you want more power in the MX-5?
You talk to Flyin' Miata, a US-based car tuning company that has finalised engineering for a V8 transplant in the latest, fourth-generation MX-5.
As crazy as it sounds – the engine more than three times as powerful as the entry-level ND MX-5's 1.5-litre 96kW motor – the engine swap is already attracting a lot of attention, boosting power to 320kW courtesy of a Chevrolet LS3 V8 not dissimilar to the one that powers Holden's Commodore SS.
A V8-powered MX-5 is not a new concept (previous-generations models have been created before, including in Australia), but this new V8 conversion costs around $US50,000 ($A65,000) and also includes a six-speed T56 Tremec manual geabox, a rear differential from a Camaro SS and a customised central exhaust.
In other words, it's a full-strength MX-5 with the scent of General Motors, especially if you opt the 390kW engine boost.
No official benchmark 0-100km/h acceleration time has been supplied, but the company managed a sub-four-second time in an NB-Series MX-5 several years ago.
The crew from the Flyin' Miata workshop reckon its monstrous MX-5 retains similar weight distribution to the regular model, despite the massive Chevy V8 adding extra weight over the front axle.
The entire conversion adds about 120kg to the car's kerb mass, though you can option things like a carbon-fibre driveshaft and bigger brakes to compensate.
Flyin' Miata says it has seamlessly integrated the car's electronics, so there are no wires poking out or unsightly aftermarket add-ons. However, one element that's not compatible is the traction control – so it's been deleted…
Although the conversion kit is only offered for left-hand drive vehicles sold in the USA at present, including the Fiat 124 Spider, there has been chat of a right-hand drive conversion in the future.
Does the MX-5 need a three-fold increase in power? Have your say in the comments section below.
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