Mazda’s First-Gen Miata Is Getting Jaguar Power with Ferrari-Fighting Numbers

Having gotten its start contracting, consulting and selling Miata conversion kits part-time back in 2013, UK-based Rocketeer has since developed quite the reputation for its ludicrous MX-5 builds.

For good reason. With over 150 custom creations to its name between kits and full vehicles, the outfit has proven that it’s capable of transforming the little Japanese droptop into everything from hardcore track weapons to reliable daily drivers.

Rocketeer

Now, however, Rocketeer has announced what is easily its most ambitious project yet. As an even more performance-oriented take on the first-generation NA, it brings a power-to-weight ratio comparable to that of a Ferrari F40.

Lighter than lightweight

They’re calling it Keiryo, which translates to ‘Lightweight’ in Japanese. It’s a fitting name — even though Mazda’s roadster is already known for its svelte qualities, Rocketeer is targeting a curb weight of just 850 kilograms (1,874 lbs). That works out to a decrease of roughly 400 lbs from the stock figure.

Rocketeer

Moreover, like other Rocketeer builds, Keiryo will also be ditching its factory four-pot in favor of a Jaguar-derived AJ30 3.0-liter V6. Seeing as the engine was originally designed by Porsche and finished by Cosworth, it brings some true performance pedigree.

And once Rocketeer works its magic, the V6 delivers some serious power, too. While the AJ30 was rated for around 240 ponies in production form, Rocketeer has managed to massage output such that it’s now up to an authoritative 375 horsepower.

Rocketeer

On the road, this results in a power-to-weight ratio of 441 horsepower per tonne, putting the modified Miata on par with everything from a Ferrari F40 to a Lamborghini Huracan V10 and a McLaren 620R.

And here’s the thing — even though Rockeeter’s Keiryo project will be packing that kind of power, the outfit has confirmed that it will also be offering a “touring-style” version that adds “creature comforts” and “dial[s] back slightly from the full-blooded Keiryo specification.”

Rocketeer

Miata is always the answer

As if the hardcore Keiryo wasn’t enough, Rocketeer has also announced a few other updates that will surely be exciting news for Mazda MX-5 fans.

For one, the outfit will be expanding its Miata portfolio to include the third-generation NC version.

Rocketeer

Compared to the Keiryo, it’ll come in a little milder at 300 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. However, even with the gentler tune to its V6, Rocketeer says that this means that it’ll make more torque per tonne than Porsche’s 718 Cayman R.

What’s more, Rocketeer has also launched an online shop to provide a direct source for its in-house parts and upgrades.

For the time being, it contains the full range of parts used on Mk1 and Mk2 conversions, though the catalog will continue to grow with further models. Whether you’re looking for a replacement for an existing Rockeeter build or sourcing an engine to do your own DIY swap, the brand is making it easier than ever to create and maintain the Miata of your dreams.

Rocketeer

Pricing and availability

At this stage, Rocketeer hasn’t announced pricing for its Keiryo or NC cars. However, the brand is nearing completion of each initial build, and delivery is expected to begin in 2026.

In the case of the former, Rocketeer will be converting just 10 examples to Keiryo spec. By contrast, the latter is “expected to account for a significant proportion of future builds.”

If you’d like to learn more, head on over to Rocketeer and you can check out its restomods, turnkey options and parts website.

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