We just had to do something on the Mazda Miata “Banshee” since anytime you go and jam a V8 engine in a small sports car you are going to get a major reaction from people who either love it or hate it. This example built several years ago by Gearz TV host Stacey David is truly exceptional and is worth taking a closer look at. As kit cars go, this build is at the top of the list in terms of its overall low cost =.tons of power and fun.

The Banshee is built on the platform of the Mazda MX-5, also known as Miata in North America and Eunos Roadster in Japan. Mazda first introduced the model at the 1989 Chicago Auto show as a lightweight, two seat roadster with minimal mechanical complexity. However, along with the simple mechanics of the car came a philosophical style aimed at linking modern Japanese technology with the rich history and flair of the small British and Italian roadsters of the 1960s such as; the Triumph Spitfire, MGB, Fiat 124 Sport Spider, Alfa Romeo Spider and Lotus Elan.

In addition to the Banshee kit, there are other available non kit car options out there including this video of a company in California called Monster Miata which provides customers with the option of swapping the Miata’s factory four cylinder engine for a 5.0L Ford V8.  Yes, the name Monster does do it justice as these Monster modifications transform the lady like Miata into a fire breathing track dragon.