LS swaps are common among first-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata owners, but on the other hand, it’s not that often you’ll find a Ford engine under the hood of the world’s best-selling roadster. This is one of those vehicles, packing a 408 stroker V8 built from a 351 Cleveland.
Listed for sale on Craigslist, the “1992 Monster Miata V8” can be yours for the princely sum of $20,000. The owner of the one-of-a-kind abomination has “over $25,000 in receipts for the parts alone,” and so far, the car racked up 10,000 miles since it was converted to this specification.
Described as the one-and-only MX-5 Miata with a 408 stroker V8 in the world, this fellow comes with an MSD fuel pump, aluminum RCI fuel cell, Crane Performance hydraulic camshaft, Canton oil pan, Eagle forged H-beam rods and crankshaft, and an AL9 electronic fuel injection ECU. Wiseco forged pistons, Griffin radiator, remote oil filter, custom exhaust system with Porsche 911 Carrera 4S tips, and hi-flow catalytic converters are also featured.
The build goes further than that, continuing with the Mustang 7.5-inch rear end that’s been shortened to suit the size of the MX-5 Miata. A Ford T5Z transmission, Steeda shifter, Stage 2 clutch upgrade, aluminum flywheel, and 4.0-inch aluminum driveshaft are also present.
With this kind of suck-squeeze-bang-blow, the V8-swapped Mazda also needs the braking power to suit. This is where the Goodwin rotors and Wilwood calipers enter the scene, complementing the Rota TB wheels wrapped in Toyo Proxes R888R tires.
From an aesthetic standpoint, the bulging hood and Hella headlights are the most obvious modifications, along with the spoiler lip up front and gauge cluster. The owner assures us “the car is incredibly fast and a ton of fun” but “not for the faint of heart.”
To whom it may concern, the Frankenmiata also comes with a clean title. Having said these, is there anyone out there willing to spend $20,000 on this unicorn?
After a 1:43 scale model of a Ferrari 250 GTO sparked Mircea's interest for cars when he was a kid, an early internship at Top Gear sealed his career path. He's most interested in muscle cars and American trucks, but he takes a passing interest in quirky kei cars as well. Full profile
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