The Car
1991 Mazda Miata (NA)
14 years of racing. Half a dozen engine swaps. Still fighting for podiums.
1.8L VVT
JDM BP Engine
~1,900 lbs
Race Weight
13.2 gal
Total Fuel Capacity
Since 2010
On Track
Where It Started
This car has been racing since 2010, when Harris Hill Raceway launched its Miata Challenge Series. Back then it was a 1991 Miata with a stock 1.6L engine — nothing special on paper, but it was on a racetrack and that was all that mattered.
It's been retired more times than we can count. Engines have blown. Parts have broken. Every time, we brought it back.
The Engine Swaps
The car started life with the original 1.6L. When that gave out, it got a 1.8L and moved into endurance racing. Now it's running a JDM 1.8L VVT — the third generation of powerplant in this chassis. Each swap brought the car back stronger and more competitive than before.
The current engine sits behind a standalone ECU with a fully stripped and rebuilt wiring harness. No factory compromises. Every wire in the car has a purpose.
This car has been raced and retired more times than anyone can remember. But right now, after 14 years, it's fighting for podiums and chasing a championship.
Built to Last
At ~1,900 lbs, the car is light and nimble. The Bilstein and Eibach suspension keeps it planted. The Mishimoto cooling system and Accusump oil accumulator keep it alive through 8-hour races in Texas heat. Stock Miata Sport brakes with G-Loc pads handle the stopping — simple, reliable, and easy to service in the pits.
The 6-point Spec Miata cage was built roomy on purpose — we accommodate drivers up to 6'5", because access to the seat shouldn't depend on your height. Everything safety-related is SFI or FIA rated and gets teched before every single race.
The Build Sheet
Everything on the car today.
Safety
- 6-point Spec Miata roll cage — built roomy to fit drivers up to 6'5"
- 6-point SFI/FIA-rated harness
- Onboard fire suppression — dual nozzle (driver and engine bay)
- Window net and arm restraints
- All safety equipment teched annually and before each race
Engine & Cooling
- JDM 1.8L VVT
- Standalone ECU with fully stripped and rebuilt wiring harness
- Mishimoto aluminum radiator and silicone cooling hoses
- Accusump oil accumulator for increased oil capacity and safety
Suspension & Handling
- Bilstein shocks with Eibach springs
Brakes
- Stock Miata Sport brakes with G-Loc pads
- Stainless steel braided brake lines
Electronics & Other
- AiM digital dash with full telemetry
- Quick-release steering wheel
Specifications
Engine
- Engine
- JDM 1.8L VVT
- ECU
- Standalone ECU with stripped harness
Drivetrain
- Transmission
- NB 5-speed manual
- Drive Type
- Rear-wheel drive
Chassis
- Race Weight
- ~1,900 lbs
- Wheelbase
- 89.2 in
Fuel
- Fuel Tank
- Stock 12.7 gal + 0.52 gal surge tank
Tires
- Tires
- 245/40R15 Continental ExtremeContact Force
It doesn't know it's supposed to be done. And neither do we.