A unique automotive “cosplayer” has appeared on the auction site Bring a Trailer, offering enthusiasts a chance to own a piece of rolling eccentricity. This custom roadster, built on the chassis of a third-generation Mazda MX-5, has been meticulously rebodied to mimic the elegant, exotic lines of an Aston Martin.
The Art of the Tribute
While it may look like a high-end British exotic, this vehicle is far from a high-maintenance rarity. Underneath its bespoke exterior lies the reliable heart of a Mazda, meaning it can be serviced at any standard dealership.
This specific build was crafted by Simpson Design, a boutique coachbuilder based in Washington State. Much like the Japanese firm Mitsuoka—known for dressing up economy cars in classic, retro styling—Jim Simpson specializes in creating European-inspired bodies for the MX-5 platform.
The result is a “best of both worlds” scenario:
– Exotic Aesthetics: A coachbuilt body that captures the essence of classic grand tourers.
– Daily Reliability: The mechanical simplicity and parts availability of a Mazda.
– Rarity: This is reportedly one of only two such builds, with the other version being a coupe.
Performance and Specifications
Despite its sophisticated look, the car remains a lightweight, approachable driver. It is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 166 horsepower—a specification that provides plenty of pep for spirited driving on winding back roads.
The vehicle features several premium touches designed to enhance its “gentleman racer” persona:
– 16-inch wire wheels with classic knock-off hubs.
– A versatile setup including both a removable hardtop and a convertible soft top.
– A six-speed automatic transmission, prioritizing ease of use over the aggressive shifting of a manual.
Why This Matters: The Appeal of “Coachbuilt” Quirks
In an era where most cars are mass-produced by robots in massive factories, there is a growing niche market for coachbuilt oddballs. These vehicles appeal to collectors who want something that stands out from the crowd but lacks the astronomical maintenance costs and fragility of a true vintage supercar.
This Miata offers a nod to cinematic history—evoking the spirit of the Toyota 2000GT seen in the 1967 James Bond film You Only Live Twice —without the impossible price tag of a genuine Bond car. It is a playful, high-quality tribute to style and personality.
This car isn’t trying to be a perfect forgery; it is a dash of Aston Martin flavor wrapped in a reliable, everyday machine.
The auction for this unique roadster is scheduled to conclude on April 28.
Conclusion: This Simpson Design Miata represents a rare intersection of boutique craftsmanship and mass-market reliability, offering collectors a stylish, “budget Bond” alternative to traditional exotic cars.
