When it comes to modifications by customers, we are very often asked for our opinion. Questions like "What is the right wheel-tire combination for the racetrack?" or "Which suspension do you recommend for fast road use?" are standard questions for us. As with the MX-5 NA, here is a guide to which components we recommend for which use. For this it should be mentioned that one always assumes a vehicle in good condition as a basis. That means without rusted body parts or rusted bushings.
As with the MX-5 NA, we give you the choice between a road car, which can also be used very well for touring on the weekend, or alternatively the perfect Tracktool.
So let´s start off with the perfect road modifications:
Stage 1:
In Stage 1, we first take care of the suspension and wheel-tire combination. In terms of suspension, we rely on Silver's Neomax-N coilovers, which has a very good set-up for road use. Here, the remaining comfort is equally important, as is cornering stability and preventing the vehicle from tilting and nodding.
For the wheel-tire combination, we recommend a Nankang NS-2R in 205/50R15 on an 8x15 offset 25 rim. When it comes to rim design, of course, it depends on your taste, which is why we do not explicitly specify a rim for you here.
Stage 2:
The second stage is then about minimizing your braking time. For this we use StopTech brake discs for the front axle on the left and right, as well as suitable brake pads on the front axle. This should make fading a thing of the past when touring on the road, without unpleasant squeaking noises when parking in case you want to take a break from touring.
Stage 3:
Then we can take care of the interior of our MX-5 and make it safer at the same time. A roll bar, a seat package and a new steering wheel including a steering wheel hub are on the agenda for this. As a roll bar, we recommend a Track XL roll bar, as this is compatible with all types of softtops that are originally sold as well as the original hardtop. For the seat package, we rely on the package with Corbeau LE standard seats, as these do not represent an obstacle to getting in and out of the vehicle during daily use. However, you should always pay attention to whether your stature actually fits the chosen seat. If you need advice at this point, you are welcome to comment on this blog post or, alternatively, write us an email. When it comes to the steering wheel, it depends again on your personal taste. In our steering wheel category you can use the filter function to find exactly the steering wheel that suits you and your stature.
Stage 4:
The fourth stage is then about increasing the performance of your MX-5. You are welcome to take a look at our performance parts package here. With the performance part packages, you always get all the parts you need to safely prepare your MX-5 for the corresponding performance. The respective Stage 1 turbo package is ideal for use on the road.
If you want to use the MX-5 primarily on the racetrack, you will now get the guide to the optimal tracktool.
Stage 1:
In the first stage, we take care of the optimal grip level on the racetrack. For this we use a Silver's Neomax-R coilover in combination with a race track suitable wheel-tire combination. A Nankang AR-1 in 205/50R15 on an 8x15 offset 25 rim is then used as the wheel of your choice. When it comes to rim design, your creativity and taste are required. However, you should note that if you want to change to a bigger stage later, the brake system should fit the selected rim.
Stage 2:
As already mentioned, the brake system of the front axle is then completely replaced in the second stage. For this we use the StopTech brake system in 280mm suitable for MX-5 NA/NB/NBFL. This means that the braking system should then be prepared for use on the racetrack and not fail so quickly.
Stage 3:
After upgrading the brake system we look further with the interior of your MX-5. For customer inquiries for tracktools, we always recommend a bolt on cage of the Track variant, as well as Schroth looped harnesses for left and right. In addition, depending on the customer's stature, we use bucket seats. If you need help with the selection, please do not hesitate to contact us. To round off the interior, the OEM steering wheel should be replaced by a new steering wheel with a matching steering wheel hub. You should then be perfectly prepared for the next level in terms of passenger safety.
Stage 4:
In Stage 4, the increase in performance then finds its way into the MX-5. As already mentioned above, you should always stick to our performance parts packages. With the performance parts packages, you not only get all the parts to increase the performance of your MX-5, but also all the additional components you need so that the respective components are stable and you not only have short-term fun with the new performance. For track tools, we also recommend the Stage 1 turbo package suitable for the respective variant of your MX-5.
At which stage are you currently with your modifications? Are you rebuilding your MX-5 according to other priorities? Give us your current status in the comments! As always, if you have any questions on the topic, feel free to write a comment below this post or send an email.
Your SPS Motorsport Team