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A third-generation (NC/Mk3) Mazda MX-5 Miata has been re-engineered by UK specialist Rocketeer Cars to use a Jaguar AJ30 3.0-liter V6. Rocketeer’s standard specification is advertised at a claimed 300 bhp and 265 lb ft, while retaining the MX-5’s original subframe and near-50:50 weight distribution.
What engine is in the Rocketeer NC Miata?
The conversion uses a post-2003 Jaguar AJ30 3.0-liter V6. This is not an NA or NB Miata swap: the donor car is the NC, Mazda’s third-generation MX-5 sold from 2005 to 2015 in many markets.
Rocketeer re-engineers the AJ30 rather than installing an untouched production engine. The package includes bespoke cylinder-head work, a carbon-fibre intake system, CNC throttle bodies, a new exhaust, and dedicated clutch and flywheel components. Independent launch coverage from Octane, Top Gear and Evo describes the standard output as 300 bhp and 265 lb ft. Those figures are the stated specification, not an independently verified dyno result.
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Rocketeer says the engine’s revised cylinder-head design allows the V6 to fit without modifying the bulkhead. The front subframe and underlying chassis structure remain unchanged, according to the launch reports. That matters because the conversion is intended to add power without turning the NC into a heavily altered tube-frame project.
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The company also says the finished car keeps weight distribution close to 50:50. The published material does not establish a complete converted-vehicle curb weight, corner-weight report, suspension specification or tire setup, so the handling claim should be read as a design target rather than proof of identical road behavior in every build.
Stock NC versus the 300-bhp V6 conversion
| Item | Stock NC MX-5 | Rocketeer V6 NC |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Mazda four-cylinder, model-dependent | Re-engineered post-2003 Jaguar AJ30 3.0-liter V6 |
| Power | Varies by market and engine version; not stated in the conversion reports | Claimed 300 bhp standard specification |
| Torque | Varies by market and engine version; not stated in the conversion reports | Claimed 265 lb ft |
| Chassis and subframe | Original NC structure | Rocketeer says the subframe and underlying structure remain unchanged |
| Weight distribution | Original NC balance | Rocketeer says it remains near 50:50 |
| Induction and exhaust | Factory Mazda systems | Carbon-fibre induction plenums, CNC throttle bodies and a bespoke complete exhaust |
The V6’s naturally aspirated response is central to the project. There is no turbocharger in the published specification, so throttle response and power delivery should remain immediate in character, although exact output curves and acceleration times have not been published.
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What parts are included in the self-build kit?
Rocketeer’s self-build route is more than an engine-only sale. The listed kit can include:
- Fabricated steel front subframe and engine-mount brackets
- Alternator, power-assisted-steering and throttle brackets
- Complete exhaust system
- CNC aluminium adapter plate and flywheel
- Pulley adapter and oil-system hardware
- Cast-aluminium baffled sump
- Carbon-fibre induction plenums and CNC throttle bodies
- Clutch assembly, filters, electronic water pump, belts and hoses
- MBE ECU and electronics pack
Rocketeer lists the self-build kit and electronics pack from £9,995, depending on specification. A listed rebuilt AJ30 engine is £6,495. The company states that prices exclude 20% VAT, so the advertised starting figures are not the final consumer totals for a UK buyer.
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Turnkey conversion versus self-build
| Consideration | Turnkey conversion | Self-build route |
|---|---|---|
| Published starting price | £25,000 plus VAT in UK launch coverage | Kit and electronics from £9,995 plus VAT; rebuilt AJ30 listed at £6,495 plus VAT |
| Installation | Rocketeer or an approved specialist completes the conversion | Owner or chosen workshop performs the mechanical and electrical installation |
| Parts scope | Complete conversion package, subject to the selected specification | Rocketeer’s listed conversion hardware, electronics and optional engine assembled by the buyer |
| Geographic support | Rocketeer’s UK facility plus reported partners in North America, Germany and Australia | Support depends on the builder, local workshop capability and Rocketeer’s arrangements |
| Warranty and servicing | Specific terms were not established in the published launch reports; confirm them in writing | Warranty coverage and responsibility depend on the parts purchased and installer; confirm before ordering |
| Lead time | Octane reported 2027 build slots being finalized | Timing depends on parts availability, engine specification and the builder’s workshop schedule |
Independent coverage also reports a US-dollar starting figure around $33,000, depending on specification. That is a secondary, geography-specific report; the builder and UK launch reports quote pounds plus VAT.
How the project was developed
Rocketeer says the conversion was developed over an 18-month engineering program. The stated goal was to work through the engine, induction, exhaust, drivetrain and mounting systems without losing the character of the original roadster. The unchanged structural components and near-50:50 balance are part of that approach.
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- White base paint with black and red racing accents for an authentic motorsport look
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- Black performance wheels with fine rim design for an aggressive stand
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What is still unknown before you buy or build
- No independent dyno test confirming the 300-bhp figure has been published in the supplied coverage.
- No verified 0–60-mph or other acceleration time is established.
- Long-term reliability, service intervals and a complete warranty policy are not documented in those reports.
- US registration, emissions and inspection requirements vary by state and require local verification.
- Final pricing changes with engine condition, specification, labor, shipping, VAT and local taxes.
Before committing, ask Rocketeer or the installing partner for the exact engine specification, final parts list, cooling and ECU calibration details, installation responsibility, warranty wording, service plan, delivery schedule and legal documentation for your jurisdiction.
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The turnkey car is aimed at an owner who wants a professionally integrated, naturally aspirated V6 roadster and is prepared for a specialist-car budget. The self-build path suits an experienced fabricator or workshop that can manage engine preparation, wiring, ECU configuration, cooling, exhaust fitment and final commissioning. It is not presented as a simple bolt-in weekend upgrade.
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In short, the Rocketeer NC is a third-generation MX-5 with a re-engineered Jaguar V6, a claimed 300 bhp and 265 lb ft, and a conversion designed to preserve the stock chassis architecture. The headline numbers are compelling, but buyers should treat them as stated specifications and obtain build-specific technical, warranty and legal details before ordering.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
