Why no 2006+ V8 Builds
 

So, I'm new to the site (1st post). I'm on a fact finding mission before I build/buy a car.

I've been on the site for days and I can't find any V8 builds on 2006 or new Miata's. Why is that? I do understand that you can buy a mid 90's car of craigslist for pocket change and that cuts your build cost way down but is there more to it?

Thanks, John

Welcome to the site. I know there are several out there, but I couldn't find anything either. A search for NC on the "other" forum (Miata.net) didn't show anything. So I googled NC Miata V8 swap, which turned up the references I remembered. Road and Track even did an article on one, and Flyin Miata has really good reference material on their build diaries. V8Roadsters also has the necessary hardware.

Mike

Thanks Mike, I'll look at those sites.

I was looking into a '99-'01 Porsche 911 LS3 build but to get a good clean doner car they run $14,000-$16,000. The only good news is that you can keep the Porsche tranny and run an adapter plate.

My thinking on the '06 or '07 Miata is that they run $7,000-$9,000 and then I can sell the engine and tranny for a couple thousand. It may be feasible to have a 'roller' for about $5K. Not a bad starting point for a very modern vehicle. :D

Exactly right on the modern vehicle. There's very little difference in the technology between the NA and NB, most of the hardware is interchangeable, but the NC made a big leap, closer to the RX8 in many respects. Of course, it's also bigger, heavier, etc. It really needs a V8.

And for the purists out there, the ND returns to the smaller-lighter philosophy, at least from what I've read.

When you do the swap, be sure to post lots of pics.

Mike

Flipping this thread out of Exocet over to Miata FAQs because it is a GREAT question!

Welcome to the forum Jhunter! Did you by chance see us at the Mitty in April?

There are a few NCs out there including this fine build. https://www.v8miata.net/general-moto...bo-build-1904/

Charchri4 - That is a great NC build you posted, thank you. Wiggins isn't that far from me so I may reach out to him when my project gets started.

Also, I had no idea about the Mitty at Road Atlanta. Is that an annual event? I'll need to get that on my calendar for next summer.

My ears just perked.... I have my eyes set on the wife's Cayman S. When she's done with it it's going to the Gator cave for a build. I'd opt for a built transaxel though. But pwr goals will be in the 1k+ range (TT)

As for the NC's they seem to be less popular with the enthusiasts groups in general.

Welcome to the site. :smilie_daumenpos:

Actually that NC would be worth the trip to go see from here! It redefines the word epic... There are several builds in your back yard and it's for sure worth reaching out to check out any build as you consider your project. Most builders will talk your ear off about their car for a the price of a beer or 2 and the wisdom you can pick up from such conversations could save much $$ and aggravation.
I'm not sure if the Mitty will be an annual event but I would sure make the trip again. Ahem Gator!!! http://i60.tinypic.com/34y329z.jpg
Check out the photos from the event here. https://www.v8miata.net/area-member-...207/#post14489

Gator - Since that Porsche comment got your attention, I'll pass along some other info. I made a visit to Renegade Hybrid in Las Vegas last month. They have a White Caymen S with and LS3 that they built for last Falls SEMA show. They have also built many Boxster S LS cars for customers and you can find a ton of great videos on their YouTube page.

https://youtu.be/P67OSN2DqAE

For your reading pleasure, below is a link to a guy here in Atlanta that I went and visited a few weeks ago. He's doing a complete Boxster S build and documenting it in great detail. In fact, today should be the day he gets it started for the first time.

BoxsterLS376 introduction - LS3 conversion :) - 986 Forum - for Porsche Boxster Owners and Others

Cool. Didn't know they had finally done a Cayman. :smilie_daumenpos:

Found the other one I was thinking of and as much as I hate to send people to the evil empire that's where the thread is...

Finiata's NC LS1/T56 Swap - MX-5 Miata Forum

The guy is a bit insane but a very entertaining thread for sure.

charchi4 - You're right, that last build was a long read and the guy may be a little nuts. Good info for my prebuild research. :D

Theres been a clean NC near me with high miles for sale for 4k lately......Just saying