Hello everyone from Japan!

I am joining this forum because I need your expert advice to see if my dream project is feasible. I’m working on this with my father, and we are ready to start as soon as we clear the technical hurdles.

The Car:

• 1996 Mazda Roadster (NA8C).

• Custom Body: My father and I swapped the front and rear with FD3S (RX-7) parts.

• Style: I love Lightning McQueen, so the theme is Radiator Springs.

• Suspension: It’s on hydraulics (Lowrider style).

• It was a runner, but I’ve taken it off the road to prepare for the V8 swap.

The Project & Why Rover V8?

I thought a Rotary swap for an FD-look Miata was too predictable. I want a V8!

In Japan, vehicle regulations (public certification) are extremely strict. To meet the emissions and legal requirements, I’ve chosen a 1997 Land Rover Discovery’s Rover V8 4.0 (36D) as the donor. I’ve already found the donor car and am ready to buy it.

What I need to know:

Before I pull the trigger, I need to know if I can solve these two main issues:

1. Engine Mounts: Has anyone here swapped a Rover aluminum block into an NA? If so, what is the best way to handle the mounts/subframe? Any advice or ideas would be appreciated.

2. Transmission: What is the best way to mate this engine to a manual gearbox that fits the Miata?

Also, my car is Right-Hand Drive (RHD), so I’m worried about steering rack and exhaust clearance.

I am attaching some photos of my "FD-McQueen"—as you can see, it has a very unique look!

If you’d like to see more, please check my Instagram. My account is @xx_ux3xu_xx

Please excuse my English as I am using a translation tool. Looking forward to your wisdom. Thank you!