Mazda MX-5 Gets a Surprising Ford V6 Engine Swap
British firm Rocketeer has fitted a Ford-sourced 3.0-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine into a Mazda MX-5, delivering 304 hp and 265 lb-ft.
Key Takeaways
- Rocketeer has fitted a Ford-sourced 3.0-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine into a Mazda MX-5.
- The engine delivers 304 hp and 265 lb-ft.
- Prices for this radical engine swap start at $33,400.
- The MX-5 retains its original 50-50 weight distribution despite the new engine.
- The engine swap includes individual throttle bodies, a carbon fiber intake, and a new exhaust.
What’s Behind the Unlikely Engine Swap?
Rocketeer’s decision to use a Ford-sourced V6 engine in the Mazda MX-5 may seem unusual, but it’s a deliberate choice. The engine has been used in several Jaguar models, including the S-Type and X-Type, and is known for its performance capabilities.
The use of a V6 engine in the MX-5 is a significant departure from the car’s traditional inline-four engine. However, Rocketeer’s modifications, including the fitment of individual throttle bodies and a carbon fiber intake, have optimized the engine’s performance.
How Does the V6 Engine Affect the MX-5’s Handling?
Despite the significant change to the engine, the MX-5 retains its original 50-50 weight distribution. This is a testament to Rocketeer’s engineering expertise, as the new engine could have easily disrupted the car’s balance.
The V6 engine’s added power and torque will likely affect the MX-5’s handling, but the car’s weight distribution remains unchanged. This suggests that the MX-5’s agility and responsiveness will be preserved, even with the more powerful engine.
What’s the Cost of This Radical Engine Swap?
The price of the V6 engine swap from Rocketeer is $33,400, excluding VAT. This is a significant investment, but it’s a unique opportunity for MX-5 owners to upgrade their car’s performance.
It’s worth noting that the cost of the donor car is not included in this price. Owners will need to factor in the cost of sourcing a suitable car for the engine swap.
Is This Engine Swap Worth the Cost?
The V6 engine swap is a significant upgrade for the MX-5, but it’s not without its drawbacks. The cost is substantial, and owners will need to weigh the benefits of the increased performance against the expense.
However, for those who are willing to invest in their MX-5, the V6 engine swap offers a unique opportunity to enhance their car’s capabilities. The engine’s added power and torque will likely make the MX-5 a more engaging and exciting drive.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine | Ford-sourced 3.0-liter naturally aspirated V6 |
| Power | 304 hp |
| Torque | 265 lb-ft |
| Weight Distribution | 50-50 |
| Price | $33,400 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What engine is used in the V6 engine swap?
The engine used in the V6 engine swap is a Ford-sourced 3.0-liter naturally aspirated V6.
Q: How much power does the V6 engine produce?
The V6 engine produces 304 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque.
Q: Is the V6 engine swap available for all MX-5 models?
The V6 engine swap is available for the NC generation of the MX-5, which was produced from 2005 to 2015.
