MX-5 Miata

Make
Mazda
Segment
Compact

The Mazda MX-5 is one of the most fun cars you can buy, but even after a recent horsepower upgrade, it isn't the most powerful sports car out there. The latest ND2 generation Miata produces 181 horsepower and 151 pound-feet of torque using its 2.0-liter SkyActiv-G engine, which is an increase of 26 hp and 3 lb-ft of torque over the previous model. Compared to a Camaro or Mustang, the Miata's output may seem lackluster but trust us, it is enough to have fun.

But if you simply can't live without more power, there are plenty of options on the aftermarket. You could go the extreme route by shoving a V8 under the hood, or make the more conventional move and turbocharge or supercharge your Miata. These methods are effective but they do change the Miata's playful, normally aspirated character. But now there's a UK-based tuner called BBR that will build you a faster Miata while preserving the car's normally aspirated layout.

BBR has announced two new tuning packages for the 2019 Miata called the Super 200 and the Super 220. The tuner says both tunes will retain all of Mazda's safety features and pass MOT emissions rules in the UK. You can have BBR perform the upgrades for you if you live in the UK, but the tuner also sells it as a do-it-yourself kit for other markets. "This is the first time that over 100 bhp per liter has been achievable from a normally aspirated Mazda MX-5 motor without internal modifications. It's an amazing accomplishment for a predominately standard engine," says BBR Managing Director Neil Mckay.

The Super 200 Package focuses mostly on breathing improvements, such as BBR's custom four-into-one tuned stainless steel exhaust manifold. This package also includes a BBR cold air intake system, K&N high flow air filter, and Custom StarChip ECU remap. With the Super 200 Package, the Miata produces 202 hp at 7,300 rpm (an increase of 18 hp) and 165 lb-ft of torque at just 3,950 rpm (an increase of 10 lb-ft).

If the Super 200 Package sounds like enough for you, it is now available for £1,445 (around $1,823) including installation and a dyno test. BBR even offers 12 to 36-month extendable warranty packages. If you want even more power, the Super 220 Package adds high-performance camshafts, valve springs, and retainers to make for a total output of 221 hp. This package is more expensive - coming out to £2,895 (around $3,654) installed - but it's a great way to make the Miata even more fun to drive.