Rocketeer Mazda MX-5 (NA) | PH Private Area

You’ll have noticed a good few modified MX-5s on PH of late, from EV swaps to 8,000rpm Honda swaps, and we’ll make no apologies for it. There’s no joy quite like a properly sorted, very fast MX-5, and it’s great to see such engineering expertise on display in everyone’s favourite roadster. For a car that’s remained fundamentally so similar over the decades, there’s now a wealth of different MX-5 experiences available from the aftermarket. 

Since going full-time with the V6 engine swap business a few years back, Rocketeer’s Bruce Southey has been a busy man. Easy to understand why: the Jag 3.0-litre offers up twice the power of standard without a weight gain – and with a much more exciting soundtrack – alongside decent availability. And that’s before you get to everything else that’s available for MX-5s already to fully take advantage. Not to mention a bit of restomod fairy dust on top for those that need it. 

It’s not often that Rocketeer MX-5s come up for sale, given that not many (comparatively speaking) will have been converted just yet and those invested enough to go through with the swap will most likely want to cherish their car for a long time. But we all know how situations can change, and the realisation from the owner of this one that it’s not being used enough means quite the chance for someone else. 

This Mk1 MX-5 is a Rocketeer factory build, as opposed to a DIY effort where the blueprinted engine is sent out to a customer. In addition to the 275hp (up from the standard 240 or so), this one benefitted from a full chassis restoration and rust protection, a lovely retrim of the interior and a host of new OEM parts underneath. It’s no mere engine swap, however exciting that prospect is on its own. 

Additionally, this particular build benefits from Enkei RPF1 wheels (just like the Performance Link car), coilovers, EBC discs, some extra chassis bracing and a brace of fabulous Cobra Monaco seats. Maybe some might want a more colourful cosmetic spec for their MX-5, but the list of modifications reads like a wish list. 

All in more than £40,000 has been spent on the car you see here, which doesn’t include buying it in the first place. Making an MX-5 this good – and this fast – is not a cheap endeavour, and will be why £35k is being asked. But with just 5,000 miles completed since the conversion less than two years ago, it’s as close as you’ll get to a new Rocketeer build that’s immediately available. For the sun that can’t be far away.