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Just joined the site after lurking for awhile. Figured I'd take advantage of some of the good discussion on suspension and brake upgrades I'm reading up on.
Finished an LS1 swapped 99 Miata in the last month, after a year long build (documented on v8miata.net).
It's an LS1 (5.7L aluminum block V8 from a 98 Camaro) with an upgraded, but oem intake, but little else in terms of modifications. A very optimistic dyno thinks it makes 412 pounds of torque at the wheels. Sounds ridiculous, especially since I think it could be a bit faster. Attached to a GM T56 6 speed transmission found in Camaros, Firebirds, GTOs, CTS-Vs and such across many years. After that, you start adding custom parts and parts from other makes entirely. The differential is a 8" from a Ford Cobra Mustang. Axles, driveshaft, engine subframe, etc. are all custom made, along with the exhaust and any fuel systems, pumps, filters, etc.
Some cutting and welding was required to fit the engine, and also adapt said differential to the Miata subframe, which works great in this application.
Other than the LS swap, I have Flyin Miata VMaxx coilovers which I'm starting to like more as I'm driving the car. Also stock brakes with EBC Red pads. We'll see how they hold up when I hopefully make it to the last track day of the year in my area (Philadelphia, Pa suburbs) in mid-November. My guess is the brakes will need some work - thinking Wilwood with larger rotors.
Just enjoying the car now in the Fall weather, and making every excuse to drive it while my E36 (1998) M3 sits lonely waiting for me to put winter tires on it. Funny enough, the front swaybar in the Miata is from an E36 M3, since it has a bend in it to clear the engine. Used the one out of my own car to test fit, and then bought a used one from a local junkyard.
Here are some more pics, let me know if you have other questions. I couldn't find any engine shots in my disorganized imgur album, I'll have to find a recent one....
I know you! I bought my diff and a few other parts from you if I'm not mistaken.
Post pics of your bimmer too pleaseeeee. That car is gorgeous too.
I'm so stoked you're done with this. Crazy that it's been a year already!
Yes, that was me.. and looking at your build thread.. that was you as well - lol. Poked around your build thread a bit, glad the parts are working well for you. I've got a bunch of other random stuff for sale on craigslist now if you're ever in the area again. A free ride in the Miata with every purchase! I will need to grab some video of the Miata making V8 noises this weekend, too busy driving it around...
Sadly, the best picture I have of the M3 is it sitting in the previous owner's driveway... sigh. Still a lovely car, only difference is it's sitting on the original wheels now which make it look perfect.
Hearing that exhaust before the car comes on screen and then seeing a Miata is somewhat confusing in a cool way and makes me smile. Looks (and sounds) great!!!