The Mazda MX-5 Thread

Rocketeer’s new ‘NC’ is a V6-engined Mk3 Mazda MX-5 that’ll cost you £30k

Brit tuner lumps its 3.0-litre Ford… lump into the nose of another MX-5

The recipe’s a simple but effective one: take one small car, bolt in a massive engine, strap in, hold on tight. This is the Rocketeer N/C: a Mk3 Mazda MX-5 with a Ford V6 stuffed in its nose.

You’ll know this recipe from Rocketeer’s NA (Mk1 MX-5) and NB (Mk2) cars of course, so it’s only fair the Mk3 version of the world’s best-selling roadster had its time in the sun.

Or, more accurately, its time in the gym. The Ford V6 – the post-2003 ‘AJ30’ 3.0-litre that saw service in the Mondeo, Jaguar S-Type, X-Type and even the XF and was originally a design bought from Porsche – produces a meaty 300bhp and 265lb ft. At least for now, Rocketeer calling this its ‘standard’ spec.

That engine gets a carbon fibre intake (rorty), a new exhaust (sporty), a new throttle body, clutch and flywheel (can’t think of another rhyme, sorry), while that Cosworth cylinder head has been tweaked so it doesn’t get headbutted by the MX-5’s bulkhead.


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Mazda considering electric MX-5, but knows buyers still want a petrol option

Mazda admits its eyeing an electric MX-5, but has told media that core buyers aren’t the target demographic. Here’s what we know

Speaking to automotive outlet CarExpert, Mazda Australia CEO Vinesh Bhindi highlighted that demand for an electrified MX-5 remains low. Bhindi also noted that few customers inquire about the potential arrival of an electric MX-5. However, statements from Mazda President Masahiro Moro indicate that the next-generation MX-5 will include electrification.

Development of the next MX-5 continues, with a global reveal several years away, according to Mazda Europe Design Director Jo Stenuit. Reports from German outlet Auto Motor und Sport support the electrification narrative based on Moro’s statements. These plans align with Mazda’s goal to electrify its range. Moro confirms that the fifth-generation model will still offer internal combustion engine (ICE) variants.

Mazda’s future for the MX-5 won’t shy away from its lightweight heritage

Mazda intends to preserve the formula that defines its roadster. Moro states that ICE and electric variants will weigh under 1 000 and 1 200 kg, respectively. The current generation weighs approximately 1 053 kg. Engineers face the challenge of reducing structural weight without resorting to costly materials like carbon fibre.

For context, Tesla produced the last notable lightweight electric sportscar with its original Lotus-based Roadster. That vehicle weighed 1 300 kg during its 2008 to 2012 production run. Modern alternatives like the MG Cyberster weigh over 1 880 kg.

The Australian market closely mirrors South Africa. Mazda Australia’s perspective offers insight into local prospects. Bhindi adds that an electric model could attract new buyers seeking alternative sportscar technology, and confirms the local division will accept the vehicle if Mazda produces it.

Hurdles facing the current-generation Mazda MX-5
The current-generation MX-5 launched in 2016. In recent years, global legislative measures and environmental mandates have constrained the Japanese roadster’s availability across major international markets. European Union fleet emissions standards forced Mazda to withdraw the flagship 2.0-litre SkyActiv-G engine from mainland Europe, leaving buyers with only the lower-emitting 1.5-litre unit.

www.carmag.co.za

Mazda considering electric MX-5, but knows buyers still want a petrol option

Mazda admits its eyeing an electric MX-5, but has told media that core buyers aren’t the target demographic. Here’s what we know…
www.carmag.co.za www.carmag.co.za
 
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