Safari-Style 2005 Mazda Miata

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

Classic Motorsports and Grassroots Motorsports have been the go-to source for classic car and racing news, restoration stories and car video content for sports car owners and fans alike. Both publications have featured project cars series where audiences are treated to how-to restoration videos and guides, customization content, and everything else we dream about in our own garages. Like every good story, this selection of cars from the publisher’s personal collection are now ready for their next chapter.

Ever since Mazda’s first-generation model hit our shores in 1989, Miata has been the answer for enthusiasts yearning for a modern, rear-wheel drive, two-seater sports car. And when the second-generation Miata bowed in 1999, it had been further refined: improved dampers, springs, control arm pivot points and tie rods resulted in even more heavenly handling. A satisfying switchgear pleased drivers who put the manual transmission through its paces. And an overachieving, 1.8-liter inline four-cylinder cranked out 142 horsepower at a screaming 7000 rpm. It all added up to huge entertainment from a 2,440-pound car.

With perfect weight balance, a sublime powertrain, and a comfortable, driver-focused interior, the NB Miata was just as comfortable on-track as it was on the street. And because it was so user-friendly, enthusiasts loved to push the envelope to see how far the mighty Miata could go.

This safari-build 2005 Miata started life as a turbo-equipped Mazdaspeed model, before undergoing an engine swap and extensive off-road modifications. Its bona fides are many, include participating in Gambler 500 races and rallycross events.

Highlights 

• Offered from The Publisher's Collection 

• Miata custom built to be off-road-ready  

• 1.8-liter inline four cylinder rated at 142 horsepower

• Six-speed manual transmission 

• Finished in black with removable white stripes, with black interior 

• Functional soft top 

Features 

• Off-road modifications include: 

  • Paco Motorsports 3-inch lift kit 

  • 15x6-inch wheels with BFGoodrich Mud-Terrain T/A 215/75R15 tires 

  • Trunk lid-mounted spare tire 

  • Fender flares 

  • Locked rear differential with spare axle mounted securely in trunk  

  • Hard Dog roll bar 

  • Stainless steel protective plates on driver and passenger floor 

  • Fire extinguisher  

  • Badland 5000 winch and light bar on nose 

  • Engine air intake snorkel

Known Imperfections 

• Was damaged on left side before this safari build 

Included 

• Keys 

Ownership History

Publisher Emeritus Tim Suddard states, “I built this 2005 Mazdaspeed Miata for the Gambler 500 event in Florida, and also for rallycross. We bought the car half-finished from Treasure Coast Miata and then built it into what you see here. Depending on the state it is registered in, you may need to prove to the DMV that the car was repaired properly before registering it. The original turbo was removed and presumably sold. It does have a late NB engine and what appears to be the original six-speed transmission. If you are looking for an insanely competent, easy to drive, cheap, fun car for rallycross or Gambler 500 events, you will be exceedingly happy with this car.”

Additional Notes

Please note that this Miata is on a rebuilt title.

A Broad Arrow Auctions Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner of this vehicle. Broad Arrow Auctions is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hagerty.    

Contact: Cason Vogel   Phone: 904.504.7848   email: cvogel@hagerty.com  

Sales Tax Notice to Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia Bidders: Because this car is located in Florida, Hagerty Marketplace may be required to collect and remit Florida sales tax on your purchase, even if you plan to register it outside of Florida. Unlike most other states, the states of Arkansas, Mississippi, and West Virginia may not provide a full credit against sales taxes paid to Florida. For additional information, please consult this publication and your own tax advisor regarding sales taxes applicable to cars located in Florida that are sold to residents of another state.