Wolf in Miata's clothing: Is this the ultimate sleeper?

12 December 2024 - Allard van Grafhorst

The MX-5 is one of the most tunable platforms out there. When it comes to gaining power there are several options we offer in our shop. There are bolt-ons like ITB's kits and Turbo kits but we can also build complete (BP) engines but we now offer a different route as well! How about a complete Rocketeer V6 swap?

Our customer came to us with a stock NB-FL, looking for more power but with a "sleeper look". He did some prior research on a V6 swap and decided this was the way to go!

This swap was carried out with products from Rocketeer (well known for their NA V6 project with CarThrottle), who provided almost everything we needed to ensure a smooth transition from 4 to 6 cilinders.
This included a Cobalt cat-back exhaust system but of course there are other options we can provide like a complete custom system if needed.

The new, Jaguar, crate engine was provided by Hummelink Modifications. A fresh new engine, ensuring that the owner will enjoy his car for many years to come!

The oil cooler was ordered at SPS Motorsport and is a definately needed to keep oil temperatures in check because the V6 engine generates more heat under the hood as a stock 4 cilinder 1.8 BP. The oil cooler and oil filter relocation gives the engine a liter of extra oil, well needed due to the way smaller oil pan supplied with the Rocketeer kit.

The stock radiator is replaced for a aluminium, upgraded version from I.L. Motorsport. We carry this item in stock and it is one of our most sold products! Looking for a radiatior upgrade yourself?
You can find it right here on our website; I.L Motorsport Performance radiator for NB / NBFL. We also fitted new silicon hoses, a electric water pump and a dual fan setup, completing the cooling system.

The MX-5 is also equiped with a brand new engine management system, including a new engine wiring harness. We can provide several options for this as well, not just for engine swaps but for any upgrade needs we can provide a solution. You can find all these components under Engine management on our website

To ensure everything is running smoothly, we finetune the engine as well on the dyno with the help of our friend Ruud at Wiefferink Motorsport

Nils makes sure everthing is looked at, from fueling to ignition and everything in between, to make sure the engine reaches it's maximum potential but also to make sure that it runs smoothly and safely.

And the numbers? A very healthy 275PS and 306NM of torque at the crank! Trust me when I say that it's more than enough power for a very lively driving experience.
Power is delivered instantly but very managable yet the fun part is, it just wants to keep going!

As mentioned before, the owner opted to keep the subtle look of his MX-5. With the hood closed it looks like a clean standard powered NB-FL.The perfect look for a daily driver but with all the horsepower to have fun at every corner or traffic light!

It's funny how the Jaguar V6 looks right at home under the hood! We also have to mention that we took this car to be tested and approved by the RDW. This is the Dutch equivalent of the TÜV in Germany of DVSA in the UK. The RDW approved this swap after some tests which means that the car is now officially registred as A V6 in the Netherlands. One of the things the car needs to have to be approved is a washerfluid tank but the stock one doesn't work with this swap. Luckily we now have our very own washer fluid relocation kit available, so if you're looking for something to replace the massive stock tank?
Look no furter and click right here --> Hummelink Washerfluid Tank Relocation Kit for Mazda Mx-5 Miata

Last but not least, we also upgraded the brakes front and rear with NB-FL sportive calibers and discs while we also provided EBC pads for extra stopping power!
You can find our complete range of EBC products on our website under Mx-5 Miata Brakes

So, is this the ultimate sleeper? Well, in my opinion it most definately is!
Is it a handful? Yes.
Is it fast? Yes.
Does it sound great? Yes.
Is it fun to drive? HECK YES!

- Allard