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LS Swap Mazda Miata Looks Like a Nose Horned Viper, V8 Penetrates Hood

As the V8 fanatics among you might recall, we've recently discussed a Hellcat-swapped Mazda Miata, with the NB-generation model having been auctioned off for a hefty $36,300. However, there's a problem with that MX-5, at least for those enjoying their OCD.
LS Swap Mazda Miata rendering 1 photo
Photo: jota_automotive/instagram
I'm referring to the lack of symmetry displayed by the new packaging. Sure, the supercharged HEMI was shoehorned into the 1999 chassis, but the air intake and other bits sat right in front of the driver (admittedly, the blower only protruded through the middle section of the hood).

I've been thinking about the said issue ever since and I've now come across something that could perhaps make things right. This would be the rendering starting at us from behind the screen.

The pixel play we have here portrays the latest ND-gen Miata, with the nose of the Mazda now accommodating an LS motor.

It looks like the engine penetrates the hood just enough to make us aware of its presence and I can only imagine the driving experience delivered by this mechanical melange.

Of course, there are LS V8s that fit under the hood of the ND Mazda MX-5, as we wrote back in 2016.

So, for instance, if you're looking to grab an LS3 from the 2015 Camaro SS (remember when this Chevy had a sweet-looking front fascia?), which means you'll get to enjoy 430 ponies, be prepared to pay $49,995.

Nevertheless, the said price only covers the engine and the conversion, so if we add the (roughly) $25,000 price of the Miata, we end up with a $75,000 bill. Even with the two-year warranty of the motor, that's still a big ouch!

In fact, with the Miata feeling as fresh as ever, we might just get to enjoy new projects of the sort in less than one month from now, when SEMA kicks off in Vegas.

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About the author: Andrei Tutu
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In his quest to bring you the most impressive automotive creations, Andrei relies on learning as a superpower. There's quite a bit of room in the garage that is this aficionado's heart, so factory-condition classics and widebody contraptions with turbos poking through the hood can peacefully coexist.
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