- Rocketeer has fitted a Ford-sourced 3.0-liter naturally aspirated V6.
- The engine has been tuned and now delivers 304 hp and 265 lb-ft.
- Prices for this radical engine swap start at a hefty $33,400.
For years, British firm Rocketeer has offered V6 swaps for the NA and NB generations of Mazda MX-5. It’s now turned its attention to the NC (2005-2015), unveiling a special six-cylinder version of the iconic Japanese sports car that may have done the impossible – improved on perfection.
While Rocketeer could have used plenty of V6 engines for its model, it picked something out of left-field. Now positioned under the MX-5’s hood is a 3.0-liter naturally aspirated Ford V6 used in cars like the Mondeo, as well as several Jaguar models including the S-Type and X-Type.
Read: Miata’s Still The Answer, Now With A V6 And No Apologies
Rocketeer has made a few tweaks, including the fitment of individual throttle bodies, a carbon fiber intake, a tweaked cylinder head, and a new exhaust. All up, the V6 delivers 304 hp and 265 lb-ft (359 Nm). While the standard manual transmission remains, it does now include a stronger clutch and a lighter flywheel.
Perhaps more impressive than the fact that Rocketeer has wedged a V6 under the MX-5’s hood is the fact that it’s done so without messing with the car’s bulkhead and subframe. As a result, it retains the NC’s original 50-50 weight distribution.
From the outside, there’s absolutely no way of knowing this NC has two extra cylinders. In fact, with the exception of the aftermarket wheels and the new tailpipes of this particular car, it looks like any other NC, albeit one that has been extremely well cared for.
One thing that may dissuade MX-5 owners from turning to Rocketeer to V6 swap their cars is the price. A complete V6 engine swap from the company will set you back £25,000 ($33,400), excluding VAT, and that excludes the cost of the donor car. Those on a budget would probably be wise to try an engine swap in their garage, if they have the necessary skills to do so, of course.
