BBR Stage 2 Mazda MX-5 2.0: Spotted
How to make an MX-5 feel as exciting as a Caterham? Giving it 300hp is a decent place to start...
Hopefully it will have become clear over the past few months of running the latest soft-topand RF MX-5s that we've become rather fond of them. Principally that stems from its faithful update of Mazda's timeless formula; as more and more sports cars become complex and seemingly overwrought, so the relative simplicity and clever engineering of the ND generation appeals. As it was 25 years ago, the dinky Mazda deploys a revvy normally aspirated engine, rear-wheel drive, a simple fabric roof and compact dimensions to great effect.
Also, just like the old MX-5s, the Mk4 has responded extremely well to tuning, its rather timid stock offering easily sharpened by the aftermarket. Trouble is, tuning can get expensive, especially in relative terms given the MX-5's modest retail price. It can become difficult to justify such a significant chunk of the initial outlay on upgrading, however good the result is - particularly with the warranty being invalidated on a new car.
Far better, we'd say, to take advantage of someone else's handiwork on the secondhand market. Ideally you be after a reputable parts supplier, a sensible level of modification, and a diligent owner clearly committed to the cause - this MX-5 ticks all those boxes. And then some.
Once a Mk3.5 2.0-litre Venture, this MX-5 has been treated to BBR's Stage 2 turbo upgrade, providing it with just over 300hp. The current owner's original intention was to create a liveable companion to their Seven, and there's no way that was going to happen with a measly 160hp and more than a tonne to lug around. In theory this sort of power should give performance in the R300/310S region, which ought to be sufficient for most.
BBR's forced induction kits are known for retaining the standard engine's effervescent character; its chassis work is similar, in that the modified cars still feel like MX-5s. Only much, much better ones, the limits higher yet communicated to the driver more clearly, making them simpler to exploit. This MX-5 has been treated to the spring and damper kit, adjustable anti-roll bars front and rear, EBC grooved discs and pads plus a set of Goodyear Eagle F1 tyres.
Does it work? The owner certainly vouches for it, the enthusiasm for its dynamic ability and performance clear to anyone reading the advert. That there's this much written, with so many details and lots of handy information, is very encouraging for any prospective owner to see. That it's only being sold because a Lotus Exige covers both the bases that previously required two cars is yet more good news.
£14k puts this car as one of the more expensive Mk3 MX-5s out there, which is understandable given the spec and the low mileage of 32,000. Interestingly there are other BBR conversions available for less money, though they are older cars with more miles. And, well, the wheels aren't as cool on those ones. Plus, as mentioned earlier and stated in the ad, it's going to cost you a heck of a lot more than £14k to build something similar from a 30,000-mile MX-5 - this one is £10,000 to start with.
All things considered, then, it's hard not to be won over. There are all the benefits of tuning - this being surely one of the fastest and best-to-drive MX-5s out there - but with someone else having spent the vast chunk of cash. And not having used it a great deal. With spring having very much sprung, what better way to welcome in the warmer months?
SPECIFICATION - MAZDA MX-5 BBR STAGE 2
Engine: 1,999cc, 4-cyl turbo
Transmission: 6-speed manual, rear-wheel drive
Power (hp): 268@7,350rpm
Torque (lb ft): 227@5,100rpm
MPG: 36.2 (standard car, NEDC combined)
CO2: 181 (standard car)
First registered: 2012
Recorded mileage: 32,685
Price new: £29,995 (GT270)
Yours for: £13,995
(Power spec for MX-5 GT270)
Sure, mx5s suffer from "the big R" word (does that count as mentioning it??
), but having a mk2.5 of my own that's been converted to turbo (with a more modest 220bhp), that just becomes part of the attachment to the car and looking after it. The Exige is by all accounts a great car, but on the roads will it be as usable and rewarding?
FI MX5s are pretty quick & great fun, Mk3s are a bit of a blunt instrument though compared to earlier/later versions. The extra 100kgs makes itself felt in a lightweight car- 10% more. Having said that, someone has spent a lot of cash to get this car to work well. The silver one mentioned as an alternative represents better value IMHO.
By all means, play to the strengths of an MX5 and "add lightness" maybe help a NA engine breathe and make a little more noise.
I get that.
Some handling and braking too - if you must.
But at 300bhp you cannot now reasonably use the performance on the road?
The whole point of the MX5 is an ability to get close to the performance envelope at speeds that don't put you at risk of being sent down.
I'd find this amount of power, in this car, self-defeating.
It's no coincidence that PH love the low-power Mk4
In stock form (or with stage1/2, so up to 200bhp), it is very fun but you know that the chassis can handle more. I think that this MX5 could be the definitive one, I am evalutating to do a conversion turbo on mine, sadly it's not so cheap as on mk1/2s.
The rust is a contention in certain areas even with the NC's.
But brutally the biggest issue that the turbo conversions faced on the MZR was that the manifolds warped due to lack of enough securing points...hence why the supercharger conversions can be more reliable...
I did see this car for sale before and commented on the optimistic price tag. However if someone wants to buy my '61 plate Sport Tech (with BBR 185 GT upgrade) or a p/x ...
In stock form (or with stage1/2, so up to 200bhp), it is very fun but you know that the chassis can handle more. I think that this MX5 could be the definitive one, I am evalutating to do a conversion turbo on mine, sadly it's not so cheap as on mk1/2s.
That being said, it's up to individual what the owner wants from their car, so if they want that massive rush this car will no doubt give, good on 'em. It certainly reads as well executed example, though one with a complete character transplant.
My mk3 has 190bhp it is a nice amount, out on track alone against the clock, it is quicker than many things it shouldn’t be but once traffic is involved it’s a pain, I think no one wants to let the MX5 past as it is seen as an insult to their manliness
The solution is boost…one day I will have some in my 5
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