The Idea
Time is Ripe
Although JNR and Progressive Automotive had discussed this Miata hybrid at various times since the mid-nineties, the tipping point came when JNR decided to mount a serious (at least, locally) effort at competing in SCCA's Solo II Street Modified class. This cause would allow us to build a single-purpose car unhindered by the comforts expected of a daily driver. For example, we were not required to utilize catalytic converters, had no intention of maintaining air conditioning, and weren't particularly concerned about interior resonance generated by the exhaust system.
Next, the rule set comprising Street Mod allows engine transplants, but, requires replacement engines to be from the same manufacturer as the make of car being prepared. Well, now -- if ever there was a siren call for the Kliata, this was it.
Configuration
So, exactly what form should the beast take? How much of the stock drivetrain should we use? What state of engine tune would we target? Well, this first project car would be built for Street Mod competition, so, jettisoning niceties like A/C, windshield washer bottles, and spare tires was in order. Next, the Miata drivetrain is plenty robust for the power we planned to generate, which meant we would retain as much of that as possible. Although forced induction is more-or-less encouraged -- both by the rules and our competitors -- we would be having none of that on this go-round; our first choice always having been more cylinders and aggressive tuning.
Hurdles
We knew what the usual engine swap issues were: transmission adapter, flywheel/clutch package, starter, engine mounts, wiring, exhaust... In addition, this particular swap carried with it several other boogeymen of varying popularity:
- How would we operate the VRIS without splicing in a KL ECU?
- Would we be able to find a transmission with which it could mate?
- Was the KL's lubrication system up to the task of a life lived in perpendicularity to the Earth's core?
- [and my personal favorite] Would we be stymied by the demands of coolant tubes and hoses?
