The Mazda MX-5 transformed the world sports car market when it debuted in 1989 – bringing back a desire for inexpensive, simple rear-wheel-drive roadsters that had been absent since the demise of the Triumph Spitfire and MG Midget.
But despite the car’s amazing handling and drop-dead gorgeous styling, the one thing that wasn’t the mark of a full-blooded sports car was the engine. The 1.8-litre twin cam factory unit was lively enough, but it didn’t set the world on fire, leaving many enthusiasts craving more.
One of the more interesting conversions is the Rocketeer, created by a Hampshire-based company that offers a full conversion kit using a Jaguar 3.0-litre V6 powertrain. It offers an incredible soundtrack and fabulous performance – 0-60mph in less than five seconds, and a sports exhaust that offers the sonorous appeal of a supercar.
THE HISTORY AND PAPERWORK
UK V5C
MOT May 2024
Cherished registration not included, will come with original number M636 ONH
Huge A4 folder full of invoices and receipts
Over £15,000 spent in past seven years
Base car fully restored in 2017
Converted to Rocketeer spec between 2018 and 2022
Invoice for recent £2,000 service
Full photographic record of original restoration
THE INTERIOR
Fully restored
Original spec black and grey cloth seat rim
Three-spoke Momo sports steering wheel
Additional gauges for oil and water temperature in line with Rocketeer conversion
Excellent carpets and door cards
Factory wind deflector
Superbly presented throughout
Modernised Sony stereo with USB input
THE EXTERIOR
Full body restoration and bare metal respray in 2017
Superb condition, with no signs of any rot or corrosion
Power coated floors, subframes and suspension components in excellent order
Replacement sills
Some very minor blemishes in new paint finish
15-inch Minilite-style alloys with nearly new Uniroyal tyres all-round
Lots of invoices documenting installation and tuning costs
Beautifully executed install with carbon fibre manifold and red-top engine detailing
Recent £2,000 full service
Five-speed manual with uprated clutch and brakes
Stainless steel sports exhaust
Described by the vendor as incredible to drive, with no known faults or issues
SUMMARY
The Mk 1 MX-5 is already a classic, of that make no mistake. But this takes that traditional sports car concept to a whole new level – it’s a beautifully finished and well-executed conversion that brings a whole new element to the appeal of driving an MX-5 – unbelievably quick, with an astonishing soundtrack and – in this case – far better presented and finished than when it left the factory 28 years ago.
A wonderful retro resto-mod, with oodles of appeal.
Notice to bidders
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