Rocketeer Cars, a bespoke British automotive tuner, has redefined the Mazda MX-5 Miata's performance capabilities with their audacious new creation, the 'Keiryo'. This specialized variant of the beloved roadster is not merely an enhancement; it's a complete transformation designed to rival the power-to-weight prowess of iconic supercars like the Ferrari F40. With a meticulously upgraded engine and a focus on extreme lightness, Rocketeer is setting a new benchmark for what a Miata can achieve.
UK Specialist Unleashes Ultra-Lightweight 375-HP Miata
In a bold move that has automotive enthusiasts buzzing, UK-based Rocketeer Cars officially announced its most ambitious project to date: the 'Keiryo' Miata. Translating to 'lightweight' in Japanese, this exclusive model pushes the boundaries of the Mazda MX-5, boasting a staggering 375 horsepower and an astonishing curb weight of just 1,874 pounds (850 kilograms). This impressive combination results in a power-to-weight ratio of 441 horsepower per ton, placing it in the elite company of high-performance vehicles such as the Lamborghini Huracan V-10 and McLaren 620R. The heart of this beast is an extensively modified 3.0-liter V6 engine, originally sourced from Jaguar, which Rocketeer meticulously rebuilds and fortifies to achieve its formidable output. While the precise methods for its remarkable weight reduction remain a closely guarded secret, the first Keiryo is already in production, with deliveries expected early next year. Rocketeer plans to build a mere ten units of this extreme machine, ensuring its exclusivity. For those desiring a blend of performance and everyday usability, a 'Touring' version will also be offered, reintroducing certain comfort features that the hardcore Keiryo eschews. Furthermore, the company is actively developing an Mk3 NC version of its acclaimed RestoMod, featuring a revised V6 engine delivering 300 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque, with its inaugural build anticipated for completion in early 2026. Despite being a relatively small operation, Rocketeer Cars has cultivated a global following over its decade-long existence, delivering hundreds of custom vehicles and self-build kits to enthusiasts as far-flung as Antigua, Brazil, and the United States, demonstrating the enduring versatility and appeal of the Mazda Miata platform.
The Keiryo Miata serves as a testament to innovation, proving that with vision and expertise, a beloved classic can be reimagined to compete with the giants of the automotive world. It inspires not only a deeper appreciation for the Miata's adaptable design but also highlights the passion and skill of specialist tuners like Rocketeer, who continue to push the boundaries of performance and engineering.