The Mazda Miata, being the best-selling roadster in the world, has earned immense popularity in the modified car scene. Thanks to extensive aftermarket support, enthusiasts can find virtually any modification to suit their taste.
While it’s not uncommon to see these cars with questionable and even tacky upgrades, some builds achieve a truly high level of style and sophistication. This feature is dedicated to one of the best modified Mazda MX-5 Miata NB builds, showcasing jaw-dropping retro JDM aesthetics, tasteful customizations and a vintage roadster vibe. Read on to learn more!
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The Origin
A nimble two-seater rear-wheel-drive roadster is a quintessence of the British sport car traditions that originated in the middle of the XX century, by the ending of WWII. The affordable compact cars, with an accent on driving pleasure and performance, quickly gained popularity among motoring enthusiasts around the country.
Many American soldiers who happened to get acquainted with these cars back in the UK were eager to import them to the US because at the time there weren’t alternatives to them in the New World that could come close in terms of handling, speed, and overall driving enjoyment.
Such iconic cars as the AC Cobra, Jaguar E-Type, and Triumph TR6 have taken this concept to the next level by utilizing high-output engines and more complex tech, but this move drove their cost all the way up, making these cars only available for wealthy drivers.
“Today Mazda MX5 Miata with its four generations is considered to be the most popular convertible sports car ever created”
Mazda MX5
Today Mazda MX5 Miata with its four generations is considered to be the most popular convertible sports car ever produced.
The success of this model lays in the good old British sports car formula: low weight, 2-seater interior, RWD layout, Removable soft top, naturally-aspirated small-displacement engine, sporty handling, and affordable cost. While there are many faster cars with bigger engines, it’s really hard to beat the golden ratio of Miata’s driving characteristics.
The Build
Thanks to the unbelievable popularity of this model, the aftermarket support for it is pretty extensive. You can choose literally any style to build your dream car using model-specific parts and upgrades, without needing to custom fab stuff. This British Racing Green Miata that you see in the pictures is owned by Adam Long from Louisville, Kentucky and it changed styling directions at least three times throughout the time of ownership.
Retro Theme
It’s hard to disagree that the current retro-inspired theme makes the Miata look exceptionally clean and stylish with Low track stance, Whistler KR1 classic deep-dish chrome wheels, and GJR Racing Keeni Top. We reached out to Adam to talk about his project and he was kind enough to provide a detailed insight into the specs and mods done to his car as well as the background of the build.
Interview with the owner
Why have you decided to buy a convertible?
– I didn’t really consider it for the convertible aspect once I was in the market, but it ended up being one of my favorite things about the car!
“I didn’t really consider it for the convertible aspect once I was in the market, but its ended up being one of my favorite things about the car!”
Why did you choose a Mazda Miata?
– Back when Need for Speed: Underground came out, my dad and I would always play it together, and one of the cars you could drive was the NB1 Miata, which I would always play as!
What inspired you to bring it to the current state?
– I’ve gone through about 3 different styles on it, but by the second one I felt burnt out on what style I was going for. I felt lost with the build and considered selling it. I came across older/vintage styling and decided it would be perfect for the car, as the car was British-inspired when it first came out. I was set on getting the car back to a form that I could enjoy, so that’s what I did!
– I decided to modify this car because Miatas have TONS of mod variety! You can truly make these cars whatever you want for not an expensive cost. For my high school self, this was a perfect route to start on my passion.
What challenges did you face while putting it together?
– Since I got the car when I was in high school, the build route didn’t always consist of the most quality mods, and my styles on the car changed heavily as I grew more into it. Switching it up was hard because it meant a lot had to change, including stuff that required work on the body of the car. Back in high school, I put a huge wing on it, as a high schooler would, but the bolt holes on the trunk remain from it. It’s all part of the game, I suppose!
“the build route didn’t always consist of the most quality mods, and my styles on the car changed heavily as I grew more into it”
What do you love about your car?
– I love that it isn’t truly like many other Miata builds today. I didn’t want to go with the average route. I wanted a certain style to be presented, and I was able to achieve that.
– I love that I have been able to grow with my car in a way. Our styles changed over time, and it helped keep things new and engaging with the car.
Is it your daily or a weekend ride?
– It has been my daily for a while but I’ve decided to put it away this winter for a new daily I have.
How often do you drive with the top down?
– If the temperature is above 47°(per owner’s manual instructions), you can certainly find me with the top down. My heat works and if I put the windows up with the Keeni top still on, it doesn’t get very cold anyways, which is perfect!
List of Modifications
Engine
- Standard 1.8 VVT
Suspension
- Tein Street Basis Z Coilovers
Wheels
- 16×8 +20 Whistler KR1 with 5mm spacers all around
Exterior
- OEM+ Big kit skirts & mud skirts
- MagicDrift paint matched front lip
- MossMiata clear side markers
- MossMiata Vintage side mirrors
- MossMiata Vintage trunk rack
- GJR Racing Keeni Top
- Carbonmiata Vintage LED taillights
- Mutazu Axle Back exhaust
Interior
- Fatal Flaw floor mats
- Carbon Fiber NRG quick-release wheel hub
- Personal Manta steering wheel
- Weighted shift knob
- Stitch Boots shift boot
- JDMTsurikawa pink heart tsurikawa
- Extended rearview mirror
- Chrome style bar
- Junction Produce white pretzel tassel
- Vertex turn signal extension
- CarbonMiata Diamond Stitch seat covers
- DivineMedia waving air freshener
What are your future plans for this car?
– The car is pretty much complete as it sits besides minor accessories here and there, I would like to focus on my next build but I will definitely be keeping the Miata around.
Anything else you would like to share about your car or about convertibles in general?
– I feel like convertibles almost give the same feel that motorcyclists emphasize: The openness of the ride.
This openness makes a drive so much more enjoyable to me. You don’t feel enclosed in the car, and you can see and take in everything around you.
Watch the progress and find out more about this Mazda Miata project by visiting the Instagram profile of the owner: @greydecades!
Conclusion
Creating a truly remarkable Miata build requires more than just deep pockets and a parts catalog – it demands vision, patience, and a good eye. Adam’s journey through various styling phases ultimately led to this sophisticated masterpiece which perfectly captures the essence of both classic British roadsters and Japanese tuning culture. The carefully curated modifications work in perfect harmony with the NB’s original lines, creating what might just be the most elegantly executed Miata build to date.
| Parts Category | Difficulty Rating* |
|---|---|
| Suspension Mods: | 6/10 |
| Performance Mods: | 1.5/10 |
| Exterior Mods: | 8/10 |
| Interior Mods: | 8/10 |
* Based on our build difficulty evaluation system ⓘ
Masterfully combining classic British roadster heritage with modern JDM flair, this build flexes its strongest game in the interior department, scoring 6 points with those exquisite diamond-stitched seats and Personal wheel setup. Equally impressive is the suspension, matching 6 points with its Tein coilovers that give the car that perfect stance, while the exterior’s thoughtful mix of vintage-inspired elements nets 4 points. The modest 1.5-point performance score underscores that this build was never about raw power – it’s about making a statement through refined aesthetics.
Mods Advice
Our team has put together a list of cool exterior mods that can help spice up the look of any Miata NB. Whether you’re looking to make minor tweaks or dramatically transform the appearance of your ride, here are some options to consider:
Sidemarkers
- iJDMTOY JDM Clear/White Side Marker Lens – Miata NB
Cargo Rack
- Trunk-mount Cargo Rack for Miata NB – Size 42.6 x 22 x 6.5 inches
Soft top
- Auto Berry Replacement Convertible Top – Tan (Miata NA and NB)
Steering Wheel
- Nardi Classi Steering Wheel (Mahogany) – 340mm (13.39 inches)
Roll Bar
- AJP Distributors Chrome JDM Roll Bar – Good For Miata NA and NB
*We advise double checking that all parts and accessories are compatible with your specific vehicle before placing an order. Consult with a qualified mechanic or the seller to confirm proper fitment.
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