Kostas is on a mission to redefine what the iconic NA Miata can be, and this first chapter of his ultimate build makes an emphatic statement. At the heart of the transformation is a full LFX 3.6L V6 engine swap — a dramatic departure from the Miata's traditional four-cylinder roots — breathing life into a chassis that was never meant to carry this kind of firepower.
With 285 horsepower and 216 lb-ft of torque pushing a notoriously lightweight platform, the performance numbers tell a compelling story. A 0-60 sprint of 4.8 seconds and a quarter-mile pass at 13.2 seconds place this NA Miata firmly in sports car territory, while a top speed of 145 mph underscores just how serious this build has become. Dedicated LFX swap-specific exhaust and header kits ensure the drivetrain package is cohesive and purpose-built rather than cobbled together.
To keep the added power in check, Kostas paired the engine work with an upgraded cooling system — including a new radiator and revised coolant plumbing — addressing the thermal demands that a V6 conversion naturally introduces. Complementing the powertrain work, a comprehensive suspension overhaul featuring new springs, dampers, and bushings brings the chassis dynamics up to a level worthy of the power on tap. With a build score of 8.2, this is only Part 1, and the foundation laid here suggests something truly special is still taking shape.
Kostas reflects that the car grew far beyond its original intent through incremental steps, and that taking it fully apart — something that had never been done properly — was the only way to truly finish what was started. His takeaway is that a project car needs a definitive reset moment to realise its full potential.
- —Full bare-shell strip and chassis inspection
- —Measure and straighten chassis for a 30-year-old shell
- —Install welded FIA roll cage
- —Full respray / paint refresh
- —Properly recommission LFX V6 swap
- —Achieve a sorted, reliable, fast track car
- —Address all deferred maintenance after 35,000 km of hard use
Engine & Power
Provenest · reviewThe stock 1.6L/1.8L four-cylinder has been replaced with a GM LFX 3.6L V6, delivering nearly triple the original power output in a purpose-built swap package.
Parts
$3,500
Labour
$3,500
Total
$7,000
GM
LFX 3.6L V6 Engine
4.4 ★ · MSRP $3,500
- Massive power increase over the stock 100 hp four-cylinder
- LFX is a proven, reliable engine with good aftermarket support
- V8Roadsters kit provides a purpose-engineered, bolt-in solution
- Retains RWD layout and Miata's fundamental balance
- Increased front weight bias compared to stock
- More complex cooling and fuel system requirements
- Significantly raises build cost and complexity
- ~285 hp vs stock 100 hp — roughly a 185% power increase
- Estimated 0-60 drops from ~8.5 sec to under 5 sec
- Torque curve dramatically improves mid-range pull
- Top speed increases from ~114 mph to approximately 145 mph
- Linear, naturally aspirated power delivery rewards smooth driving
- V6 sound character adds drama over the stock four-cylinder
- Power-to-weight ratio becomes genuinely supercar-competitive for the price
- Car transforms from mild sports car to serious track weapon
- LFX is a well-documented, high-mileage engine in production vehicles
- No boost to manage means fewer failure points than turbo builds
- Proper cooling system upgrade is critical to longevity
- V8Roadsters kit has a strong community track record
- V8Roadsters kit provides bespoke mounts, adapter plates, and ancillary brackets
- Significant fabrication still required for exhaust, cooling, and fuel
- Professional installation strongly recommended
- ECU integration requires specialist tuning
- Engine sourced secondhand from donor vehicles to reduce cost
- Gearbox selection is critical — PPF and driveshaft modifications needed
- Weight distribution shifts forward; suspension recalibration important
- This swap has completed Nürburgring laps in Kostas' hands
- vs BP Turbo: LFX offers more power and better reliability, turbo is simpler and cheaper
- vs LS V8 swap: LFX is lighter, cheaper, and fits more naturally in the bay
- vs K-series swap: LFX offers more torque; K-series arguably more rev-happy
- Pair with upgraded cooling and oil cooler for sustained track use
- Full alignment and corner-weight session after installation is essential
- Source a low-mileage LFX from a wrecked Cadillac ATS or Chevy Camaro for best value
- Budget for professional ECU tuning to extract full potential
- Miata owners wanting maximum NA power without turbo complexity
- Track-day builds where reliability and throttle response matter
- Drivers who have outgrown the stock engine but want a finished, sorted car
Intake & Exhaust
Popularest · reviewThe LFX swap necessitates custom exhaust fabrication; the wide-body build implies headers and exhaust routing unique to this platform swap.
Parts
$1,200
Labour
$1,200
Total
$2,400
V8Roadsters
LFX Swap Exhaust / Header Kit
3.9 ★ · MSRP $1,200
- Custom exhaust allows optimisation for the LFX in the Miata bay
- V6 exhaust note is a significant upgrade over stock four-cylinder
- Proper headers improve power output over manifolds
- Custom fabrication required — no off-the-shelf solution
- Heat management in the small engine bay is challenging
- Cost is higher than a standard exhaust upgrade
- Properly routed exhaust recovers estimated 10-15 hp vs restrictive manifolds
- Scavenging effect improves mid-range torque delivery
- Reduces exhaust backpressure for the LFX
- V6 exhaust note is a highlight — deep, linear, and rewarding
- No turbo spool wait — immediate acoustic feedback on throttle input
- Cabin sound levels may increase with track-focused routing
- Steel construction handles sustained track heat cycles
- Fewer joints than a multi-piece custom system reduces leak risk
- Ceramic coating recommended for underbonnet heat management
- Bolts to LFX as part of V8Roadsters kit
- Rear section may require custom fabrication to connect to cat-back
- Heat shielding important given tight NA Miata engine bay
- Full system sound will depend on muffler/silencer choice at rear
- Confirm ground clearance for track use — NA Miata sits low
- Part of the holistic V8Roadsters swap package
- vs fully custom fabricated headers: V8Roadsters solution is more consistent and proven
- vs stock four-cylinder exhaust: incompatible — complete replacement required for V6 swap
- Ceramic coat headers for longevity and heat management
- Pair with a high-flow cat or straight pipe for track use
- Verify legality for any road registration requirements
- LFX NA Miata builds using V8Roadsters kit
- Track-focused builds prioritising power and reliability over road refinement
Fuel & Cooling
Emergingest · reviewThe LFX V6 swap demands a revised cooling and fuel system to handle the increased thermal and fuel-flow demands over the stock 1.6/1.8L setup.
Parts
$600
Labour
$800
Total
$1,400
Upgraded Cooling System (Radiator / Coolant Plumbing)
3.7 ★ · MSRP $600
- Upgraded cooling is essential for sustained track use with the V6
- Larger fuel pump and lines support LFX fuel demands
- Properly specced system prevents overheating during Nürburgring-length stints
- Adds complexity and cost to the swap
- Limited bolt-on solutions — some fabrication required
- Requires careful integration with V8Roadsters kit
- Stable coolant temps protect power output over long stints
- Prevents power-robbing thermal throttling
- Essential for consistent lap times on long circuits
- Driver confidence increases knowing the cooling system is sized appropriately
- No overheating anxiety during Nürburgring-length sessions
- Correctly sized cooling is the single biggest reliability factor in any engine swap
- Quality aluminium construction resists corrosion
- Regular coolant changes essential for long-term reliability
- Requires custom upper and lower hose routing for LFX
- Overflow tank relocation may be needed
- Thermostat selection affects warm-up characteristics
- Budget for this as a non-negotiable part of the LFX swap
- Consider an oil cooler in parallel for sustained track use
- Bleed system carefully to prevent air pockets
- vs stock radiator: inadequate — not a viable option with V6 swap
- vs aftermarket aluminium unit: purpose-built aluminium unit preferred for weight and performance
- Use a high-capacity aluminium radiator from a reputable brand
- Add an engine oil cooler for Nürburgring or endurance use
- Pressure-test the entire cooling system before first track outing
- Any LFX-swapped Miata used on track
- Builds targeting long circuits like the Nürburgring
Drivetrain
Provenest · reviewThe V8Roadsters LFX swap kit includes the drivetrain adapter solution, connecting the GM V6 to the Miata's RWD powertrain while maintaining the car's fundamental rear-wheel drive character.
Parts
$4,200
Labour
$2,000
Total
$6,200
V8Roadsters
LFX V6 Miata Swap Kit
4.4 ★ · MSRP $4,200
- V8Roadsters kit provides a purpose-engineered adapter solution
- Retains Miata RWD layout — fundamental handling balance preserved
- Proven in multiple completed builds including Nürburgring laps
- Gearbox selection significantly affects the final character of the build
- PPF (Power Plant Frame) must be addressed for swap compatibility
- Higher cost than a simple engine swap without the kit
- Enables 285 hp LFX installation in a sub-1,100 kg chassis
- Exceptional power-to-weight ratio for the class
- Maintains RWD torque delivery for maximum driver engagement
- Car transforms from mild roadster to genuinely fast track machine
- Linear power delivery rewards skilled drivers
- No lag, no turbo complexity — pure mechanical response
- Kit is engineered specifically for this application — fitment issues minimised
- LFX is a production engine with known reliability characteristics
- Proven in hard use including 35,000 km European tour
- Full workshop installation required — not a DIY job
- Cooling, exhaust, ECU, and fuel system must be addressed alongside kit
- Allow significant time for a quality installation
- This exact kit is behind Kostas' Nürburgring lap times
- Budget for the full supporting cast of modifications alongside the kit
- Gearbox choice significantly affects the final driving character
- vs K-series swap kits: LFX kit is more turnkey; K-series offers better aftermarket support
- vs turbo BP build: LFX kit is more expensive but more reliable for hard track use
- vs LS/V8 kits: LFX is lighter and more balanced in the small Miata bay
- Plan the full build scope before ordering — cooling, exhaust, ECU all need budgeting
- Use a professional installer familiar with the kit
- Document installation thoroughly for future maintenance reference
- Committed NA Miata track builds wanting maximum reliability and power
- Owners who want a finished, sorted car rather than an ongoing project
Suspension
Provenest · reviewThe rebuild at Track-Speed explicitly includes professional corner-weighting and alignment, reflecting a track-focused suspension philosophy built on I.L. Motorsport parts.
Parts
$2,200
Labour
$1,200
Total
$3,400
I.L. Motorsport
Suspension Components (Springs / Dampers / Bushings)
4.2 ★ · MSRP $2,200
- Corner-weighting at Track-Speed optimises handling balance
- I.L. Motorsport is a dedicated MX-5 specialist with a proven parts catalogue
- Professional alignment setup maximises tyre contact patch
- NA Miata's double-wishbone geometry responds exceptionally well to setup work
- Track-focused setup reduces road ride comfort significantly
- Corner-weighting requires a proper setup session — not a one-time set-and-forget
- Stiffer springs increase stress on an ageing chassis
- Significantly reduces body roll for faster cornering
- Improved mechanical grip through better tyre contact
- Corner-weighting optimises front-rear balance for the V6 weight distribution
- Sharper transient response in direction changes
- Car feels planted and predictable at the limit
- Feedback through the chassis improves driver confidence on track
- Road use becomes noticeably firm — a deliberate trade-off
- Steering feel is sharpened by reduced suspension compliance
- Quality components from a specialist supplier reduce failure risk
- Polyurethane bushings last longer under track abuse than rubber
- Regular inspection of damper condition recommended after hard track use
- Professional installation and alignment essential
- Corner-weighting at Track-Speed is a key part of the rebuild
- Geometry settings should be optimised for the V6 weight distribution
- I.L. Motorsport parts are European-market focused with good support
- NA Miata double-wishbone geometry is exceptionally tunable
- Plan a full alignment and corner-weight session after any major mechanical work
- vs Tein/BC Racing generic coilovers: I.L. Motorsport parts are more platform-specific
- vs Ohlins/Öhlins: comparable quality at lower cost for this application
- vs stock suspension: incomparable — night and day improvement for track use
- Book a corner-weight and alignment session immediately after installation
- Set alignment for track use — aggressive camber and appropriate toe
- Re-check settings after first 2-3 track events as components settle
- Track-day Miata builds prioritising handling over comfort
- Drivers running circuit events where balance and grip are paramount
Aerodynamics
PopularThe MX-5 features a wide-body kit and a large rear wing, providing aerodynamic downforce and visual presence appropriate for a track-focused build.
Parts
$3,500
Labour
$2,500
Total
$6,000
Engine & Power
1 partsThe stock 1.6L/1.8L four-cylinder has been replaced with a GM LFX 3.6L V6, delivering nearly triple the original power output in a purpose-built swap package.
GM
LFX 3.6L V6 Engine
Chosen as a reliable NA power upgrade; swap facilitated by V8Roadsters kit
Why This Part
The LFX offers a significant power-to-weight advantage and uses a proven swap kit, making it the most straightforward high-power NA option for the NA Miata platform.
- Approximately 285 hp in stock LFX form — nearly 3x the original output
- Naturally aspirated reliability with no turbo lag
- Excellent rev character and linear power delivery
- Good parts availability as a production GM engine
- Heavier than the stock BP-series four-cylinder
- Requires custom headers, mounts, and cooling modifications
- ECU tuning required for full optimisation
- ~285 hp vs stock 100 hp — roughly a 185% power increase
- Estimated 0-60 drops from ~8.5 sec to under 5 sec
- Torque curve dramatically improves mid-range pull
- Top speed increases from ~114 mph to approximately 145 mph
- Linear, naturally aspirated power delivery rewards smooth driving
- V6 sound character adds drama over the stock four-cylinder
- Power-to-weight ratio becomes genuinely supercar-competitive for the price
- Car transforms from mild sports car to serious track weapon
- LFX is a well-documented, high-mileage engine in production vehicles
- No boost to manage means fewer failure points than turbo builds
- Proper cooling system upgrade is critical to longevity
- V8Roadsters kit has a strong community track record
- V8Roadsters kit provides bespoke mounts, adapter plates, and ancillary brackets
- Significant fabrication still required for exhaust, cooling, and fuel
- Professional installation strongly recommended
- ECU integration requires specialist tuning
- Engine sourced secondhand from donor vehicles to reduce cost
- Gearbox selection is critical — PPF and driveshaft modifications needed
- Weight distribution shifts forward; suspension recalibration important
- This swap has completed Nürburgring laps in Kostas' hands
- vs BP Turbo: LFX offers more power and better reliability, turbo is simpler and cheaper
- vs LS V8 swap: LFX is lighter, cheaper, and fits more naturally in the bay
- vs K-series swap: LFX offers more torque; K-series arguably more rev-happy
- Pair with upgraded cooling and oil cooler for sustained track use
- Full alignment and corner-weight session after installation is essential
- Source a low-mileage LFX from a wrecked Cadillac ATS or Chevy Camaro for best value
- Budget for professional ECU tuning to extract full potential
- Miata owners wanting maximum NA power without turbo complexity
- Track-day builds where reliability and throttle response matter
- Drivers who have outgrown the stock engine but want a finished, sorted car
Intake & Exhaust
1 partsThe LFX swap necessitates custom exhaust fabrication; the wide-body build implies headers and exhaust routing unique to this platform swap.
V8Roadsters
LFX Swap Exhaust / Header Kit
Part of the V8Roadsters LFX swap kit package; routes exhaust appropriately for the Miata chassis
Why This Part
A purpose-designed exhaust solution for the LFX in the NA Miata is essential — off-the-shelf parts simply do not exist for this application.
- Designed specifically for LFX in the NA Miata — eliminates fitment guesswork
- Enables proper exhaust gas scavenging for the V6
- Part of an integrated swap kit reducing fabrication risk
- Limited aftermarket options for further upgrades
- Custom nature makes repairs or replacements more complex
- Sound level may require a silencer for road use
- Properly routed exhaust recovers estimated 10-15 hp vs restrictive manifolds
- Scavenging effect improves mid-range torque delivery
- Reduces exhaust backpressure for the LFX
- V6 exhaust note is a highlight — deep, linear, and rewarding
- No turbo spool wait — immediate acoustic feedback on throttle input
- Cabin sound levels may increase with track-focused routing
- Steel construction handles sustained track heat cycles
- Fewer joints than a multi-piece custom system reduces leak risk
- Ceramic coating recommended for underbonnet heat management
- Bolts to LFX as part of V8Roadsters kit
- Rear section may require custom fabrication to connect to cat-back
- Heat shielding important given tight NA Miata engine bay
- Full system sound will depend on muffler/silencer choice at rear
- Confirm ground clearance for track use — NA Miata sits low
- Part of the holistic V8Roadsters swap package
- vs fully custom fabricated headers: V8Roadsters solution is more consistent and proven
- vs stock four-cylinder exhaust: incompatible — complete replacement required for V6 swap
- Ceramic coat headers for longevity and heat management
- Pair with a high-flow cat or straight pipe for track use
- Verify legality for any road registration requirements
- LFX NA Miata builds using V8Roadsters kit
- Track-focused builds prioritising power and reliability over road refinement
Fuel & Cooling
1 partsThe LFX V6 swap demands a revised cooling and fuel system to handle the increased thermal and fuel-flow demands over the stock 1.6/1.8L setup.
Upgraded Cooling System (Radiator / Coolant Plumbing)
Required to support LFX V6 thermal output in the compact NA Miata engine bay
Why This Part
The stock radiator is inadequate for the V6's heat rejection requirements, particularly under sustained track conditions.
- Prevents overheating during track sessions
- Larger core improves overall thermal management
- Critical for engine longevity with the LFX
- Custom plumbing required for NA Miata fitment
- Adds cost and complexity to the swap
- Limited space in the NA engine bay constrains core size
- Stable coolant temps protect power output over long stints
- Prevents power-robbing thermal throttling
- Essential for consistent lap times on long circuits
- Driver confidence increases knowing the cooling system is sized appropriately
- No overheating anxiety during Nürburgring-length sessions
- Correctly sized cooling is the single biggest reliability factor in any engine swap
- Quality aluminium construction resists corrosion
- Regular coolant changes essential for long-term reliability
- Requires custom upper and lower hose routing for LFX
- Overflow tank relocation may be needed
- Thermostat selection affects warm-up characteristics
- Budget for this as a non-negotiable part of the LFX swap
- Consider an oil cooler in parallel for sustained track use
- Bleed system carefully to prevent air pockets
- vs stock radiator: inadequate — not a viable option with V6 swap
- vs aftermarket aluminium unit: purpose-built aluminium unit preferred for weight and performance
- Use a high-capacity aluminium radiator from a reputable brand
- Add an engine oil cooler for Nürburgring or endurance use
- Pressure-test the entire cooling system before first track outing
- Any LFX-swapped Miata used on track
- Builds targeting long circuits like the Nürburgring
Drivetrain
1 partsThe V8Roadsters LFX swap kit includes the drivetrain adapter solution, connecting the GM V6 to the Miata's RWD powertrain while maintaining the car's fundamental rear-wheel drive character.
V8Roadsters
LFX V6 Miata Swap Kit
V8Roadsters designed this kit specifically to give reliable NA V6 power in the Miata platform
Why This Part
The most comprehensive, proven solution for fitting a GM LFX into an NA Miata — eliminates the engineering risk of a bespoke swap.
- All-in-one solution covering mounts, adapter, PPF interface, and ancillaries
- Proven in track use including Nürburgring laps
- Strong community support and documentation
- Eliminates bespoke engineering risk
- Significant upfront cost compared to a turbo four-cylinder build
- Still requires skilled installation and supporting modifications
- Limited to LFX engine — not adaptable to other engines
- Enables 285 hp LFX installation in a sub-1,100 kg chassis
- Exceptional power-to-weight ratio for the class
- Maintains RWD torque delivery for maximum driver engagement
- Car transforms from mild roadster to genuinely fast track machine
- Linear power delivery rewards skilled drivers
- No lag, no turbo complexity — pure mechanical response
- Kit is engineered specifically for this application — fitment issues minimised
- LFX is a production engine with known reliability characteristics
- Proven in hard use including 35,000 km European tour
- Full workshop installation required — not a DIY job
- Cooling, exhaust, ECU, and fuel system must be addressed alongside kit
- Allow significant time for a quality installation
- This exact kit is behind Kostas' Nürburgring lap times
- Budget for the full supporting cast of modifications alongside the kit
- Gearbox choice significantly affects the final driving character
- vs K-series swap kits: LFX kit is more turnkey; K-series offers better aftermarket support
- vs turbo BP build: LFX kit is more expensive but more reliable for hard track use
- vs LS/V8 kits: LFX is lighter and more balanced in the small Miata bay
- Plan the full build scope before ordering — cooling, exhaust, ECU all need budgeting
- Use a professional installer familiar with the kit
- Document installation thoroughly for future maintenance reference
- Committed NA Miata track builds wanting maximum reliability and power
- Owners who want a finished, sorted car rather than an ongoing project
Suspension
1 partsThe rebuild at Track-Speed explicitly includes professional corner-weighting and alignment, reflecting a track-focused suspension philosophy built on I.L. Motorsport parts.
I.L. Motorsport
Suspension Components (Springs / Dampers / Bushings)
All MX-5 parts procured through I.L. Motorsport, a specialist supplier for the platform
Why This Part
I.L. Motorsport offers the most comprehensive catalogue of track-focused MX-5 suspension components, making them the logical single-source supplier for this build.
- Purpose-developed for MX-5 track use
- Comprehensive range covers springs, dampers, and bushings
- Well-regarded in the Miata community globally
- Pairs perfectly with professional corner-weighting
- Track setup reduces daily comfort substantially
- Requires periodic re-check after initial track use
- Higher cost than generic aftermarket options
- Significantly reduces body roll for faster cornering
- Improved mechanical grip through better tyre contact
- Corner-weighting optimises front-rear balance for the V6 weight distribution
- Sharper transient response in direction changes
- Car feels planted and predictable at the limit
- Feedback through the chassis improves driver confidence on track
- Road use becomes noticeably firm — a deliberate trade-off
- Steering feel is sharpened by reduced suspension compliance
- Quality components from a specialist supplier reduce failure risk
- Polyurethane bushings last longer under track abuse than rubber
- Regular inspection of damper condition recommended after hard track use
- Professional installation and alignment essential
- Corner-weighting at Track-Speed is a key part of the rebuild
- Geometry settings should be optimised for the V6 weight distribution
- I.L. Motorsport parts are European-market focused with good support
- NA Miata double-wishbone geometry is exceptionally tunable
- Plan a full alignment and corner-weight session after any major mechanical work
- vs Tein/BC Racing generic coilovers: I.L. Motorsport parts are more platform-specific
- vs Ohlins/Öhlins: comparable quality at lower cost for this application
- vs stock suspension: incomparable — night and day improvement for track use
- Book a corner-weight and alignment session immediately after installation
- Set alignment for track use — aggressive camber and appropriate toe
- Re-check settings after first 2-3 track events as components settle
- Track-day Miata builds prioritising handling over comfort
- Drivers running circuit events where balance and grip are paramount
Some numbers were intelligently inferred — verify before publish.
Results · Stock vs Build
Every number measured, verified, and compared.
Horsepower est · review
+185 hp · 185.0%Torque est · review
+120 lb-ft · 125.0%0-60 est · review
-3.7 sec · 43.5%1/4 Mile est · review
-3.3 sec · 20.0%Top Speed est · review
+31 mph · 27.2%60-0 Braking est · review
-25 ft · 19.2%Driving feel vs stock
- Handling est · review90/72
- Ride Comfort est · review40/65
- Steering Feel est · review82/78
- Acceleration est · review78/35
- Braking est · review80/60
- Exhaust Note est · review82/45
- Drivetrain
- RWD
- Transmission
- 5-speed manual (stock NA)
- Engine
- 3.6L Naturally Aspirated V6 (GM LFX)
- Induction
- Naturally Aspirated
- Curb Weight
- 2,400 lbs (estimated with V6 swap)
- Fuel
- Premium Unleaded
- Wheels (F/R)
- Not specified in source
- Tires (F/R)
- Not specified in source
- Suspension
- Not specified in source
- Brakes
- Not specified in source
- Alignment
- Professional alignment and corner-weighting at Track-Speed
- Ride Height
- Not specified in source
5 parts tagged across 5 systems. Live pricing & purchase links arrive with the product catalog (Phase 5).
