A unique automotive hybrid is currently making waves in the auction circuit: a 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata that has been meticulously transformed to resemble a classic Aston Martin.
Currently listed on Bring a Trailer, the vehicle offers a high-end aesthetic for a fraction of the price of a British grand tourer. With five days remaining in the auction, the current bid stands at $20,500.
The Transformation: From Mazda to “Aston”
The car is a custom creation by Simpson Design, based in Clinton, Washington. While the core chassis and door skins remain those of a third-generation (NC) Mazda Miata, the exterior has undergone a radical visual overhaul designed to mimic the elegance of an Aston Martin, perhaps even hinting at a collaboration with the Italian design house Zagato.
Key modifications include:
– A complete front-end redesign: Featuring a signature Aston-style grille, custom headlights, and fender vents.
– Custom detailing: The addition of a hood scoop and specialized badging.
– Period-correct touches: 16-inch knock-off wheels and door handles sourced from a Lancia Flavia.
– Revised rear styling: A restyled rear end to complement the new front profile.
A Sophisticated Interior
The metamorphosis extends into the cabin, where the “budget” feel of a standard Miata has been replaced with classic luxury elements. The interior features:
– A wood-rimmed Nardi steering wheel adorned with the Aston Martin logo.
– Wood trim applied to the dashboard and center console.
– Fixed-back vinyl bucket seats that lean into a more vintage, bespoke feel.
Performance and Specifications
Beneath the custom bodywork, the mechanical heart remains purely Mazda. This provides a reliable, lightweight driving experience that belies its sophisticated exterior.
- Engine: 2.0-liter MZR inline-four
- Output: 166 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque
- Transmission: Six-speed automatic
- Mileage: 26,000 miles
Why This Matters: The “NC Miata” Context
To understand the appeal of this build, one must understand the reputation of the third-generation (NC) MX-5. In the enthusiast community, the NC generation is often viewed as the “black sheep” of the Miata family. It is larger, heavier, and possesses a more “joyful” or bubbly design language compared to the minimalist, lightweight perfection of the first (NA) and second (NB) generations.
By applying an Aston Martin aesthetic to an NC Miata, the designer has addressed the primary criticism of the model: its visual identity. This build allows a driver to enjoy the proven, stellar handling characteristics of a Miata while masking the car’s more common appearance with a layer of high-class sophistication.
This project represents a clever niche in the custom car world—using high-end design language to elevate a widely available platform into something that feels exclusive and rare.
The auction continues for five more days, offering a chance for a collector to own a “boutique” grand tourer built on a dependable Japanese foundation.
