Last updated on October 14, 2021
Today’s car is a 1994 Mazda Miata and has been restro-modded to a track capable Roadster. It is owned by Brad Abrams. I saw this car at the State of Speed cars and coffee on September 16th. It is finished in Black with a black interior. Brad, has trimmed the exterior in Carbon Fiber aftermarket pieces, 40mm fender flares, a vented hood, a 27 lb hardtop, and a rear spoiler. Carbon fiber also reveals itself in the Lotus replica seats, and under the hood as an engine timing belt cover. There is also a radical looking front splitter on the car that is functional for track duty.
The interior has been entirely updated except for the original carpets. While the hard top does come off, it’s a rare thing as its one of his favorite parts on the car. Radio and HVAC deleted. Brad has added a race car style switch panel, used for controlling power to the starter, fuel pump, and several other car functions. A roll bar, harness bar and door bars have been installed along with a harness. The steering wheel tilts forward to assist entry and exit.
The outdated 1994 systems have been uprated with more capable, more adjustable, and more modern systems, allowing the adjustment to both the feel and the performance of the car. The coilover suspension now uses remote controlled motors to adjust rebound and compression on the shocks, based on speed and G-forces in the car in real time. This is similar to the Corvette Magna-Ride system, delivering individual wheel grip improvement, keeping the car flat. The steering was converted from the factory hydraulic system to an electrical power steering system with roughly 4 times the assist torque, and it is adjustable from inside the car with the turn of a knob. The steering wheel will turn with one finger at full assist. The car is sitting 15” wheels wrapped in 245 Nitto NT01 road race tires,
It weighs 2450 pounds with Brad inside, and is powered by a modified original 1.8L DOHC engine; a supercharged four cylinder iron block. The bottom end has been built with forged pistons and rods, while the top end was built to handle 7500 rpm. The car is running an AEM Engine Management System and is tuned for 91 pump gas. An uprated clutch and lightened flywheel support 225whp, at 12psi boost, through the stock 5 speed manual transmission, driveshaft, differential, and axles. The aftermarket StopTech big brakes slow down all the go, with 11” 2pc floating front rotors and aluminum opposed piston calipers on all four corners.
I love what Brad has created with this car. This is the updated version of a old school hot rod on steroids. It caught my attention from the first time I saw it. It is a great car that makes me smile when I see it. Great for the track, cars and coffee, car shows, or just a cruise. Thanks for traveling along. Frank
