A U.K. company, Rocketeer, has successfully completed a striking engine swap for the Mazda Miata and is making it accessible for others interested in doing the same. Instead of simply adding a turbocharger to the standard inline-four engine found in the Miata, Rocketeer has replaced it with an engine they refer to as the MXV6, which is derived from the Jaguar 3.0-liter AJ30 V6. This engine was produced during Ford’s ownership of Jaguar and was used in several models, including the Jaguar X-Type, S-Type, XF, and Lincoln LS. In its original form, the AJ30 engine produces between 231 to 240 horsepower and 209 to 221 pound-feet of torque, depending on the vehicle it was installed in.
While the AJ30 might seem like an odd choice for an engine swap, it is effectively a specialized version of the Ford Duratec 30, which powered common vehicles like the Ford Taurus sedan, Escape SUV, and Freestyle minivan. Some may wonder why someone would want to install a modified minivan engine into a Miata.
However, the AJ30 is a solid naturally aspirated V6 designed for rear-wheel-drive vehicles. Its performance specifications may not be extraordinary, but they represent a considerable enhancement over the stock Miata engine. Additionally, it offers the reliability associated with Ford products. The intent is not to transform the Miata into the fastest car on the racetrack but rather to provide a noticeable increase in power without the complications often linked with aftermarket forced induction systems.
Rocketeer offers several kits for those looking to make the switch. The complete conversion kit comes with a variety of components, including a front subframe, mounting brackets, a full exhaust system with headers, carbon fiber intake manifolds, belts, hoses, a clutch, a custom ECU, and more. However, it does not include the engine itself, so customers must supply their own Miata and AJ30 engine. This comprehensive kit is priced at $7,995, and installation costs about $2,000.
For a more economical option, there’s the Expert Conversion Kit, which includes the essential items needed for the engine swap, such as the subframe and mounting hardware, but lacks the additional components required to enhance the engine itself. This kit costs $2,195, but customers will still need to find a Miata and AJ30 engine.
Lastly, for those who want a hassle-free experience, Rocketworks Sports Cars in Eugene, Oregon, can provide a complete turn-key solution. They will find a Miata, acquire an AJ30 engine, and handle all modifications according to the customer’s preferences. The starting cost for a fully equipped V6 Miata is approximately $20,000. While this might seem high for an older Miata, it reflects the comprehensive service being offered.
For a closer look at a Rocketeer Miata, viewers can check out a video that, although over a year old, features a prototype model. The associated swap kit is now available in the U.S. through Rocketworks Sports Cars in Eugene, Oregon.
This offering should be viewed not as the definitive engine swap for the Miata, but rather as the V6 version that Mazda never produced..
