Mazda aficionados, especially those interested in tuning upgrades, are more than likely aware of BBR (Brodie Britain Racing), which has been tinkering MX-5 roadsters for quite some time now.
The UK-based company has added two new versions for the 2005-onwards MX-5s, aka Mk3/3.5, with 1.8- and 2.0-liter engines.
BBR has been developing its Cosworth-based supercharger for the past 12 months in order to perfect the upgrade kit for all different variants of the third-generation MX-5. In addition, BBR has also replaced the “piggy back” Interceptor engine control unit with a Starchip-developed remap.
The tuner’s offerings start with the Stage One kit that includes, among other things, an Eaton 4th generation MP62 Supercharger, an intercooler, StarChip ECU, high flow calibrated injectors and replacement air box.
It brings the 1.8-liter engine’s output to 217 bhp and its torque to 176 lb-ft (238 Nm), an increase of 93 bhp and 53 lb-ft (72 Nm) respectively compared to the stock Mazda engine.
The 2.0-liter unit gains 77 bhp in Mk3 and 83 bhp in the higher-revving Mk3.5 models, as well as 51 lb-ft (69 Nm) increase in both models, bringing output to 235 bhp and 241 bhp respectively.
MX-5 owners looking for more performance can opt for the Stage Two conversion, which in addition to the parts mentioned above, includes a new exhaust system, a performance air filter and a more aggressive tune for the ECU.
With the Stage 2 kit, output climbs by an impressive 107 bhp in the 1.8-liter engine, to 231 bhp and by 94 and 100 bhp in the 2.0-liter Mk3 and Mk3.5 versions, to 252 and 258 bhp respectively. Torque increases by 67 and 69 lb-ft (91 and 93 Nm) for the 1.8 and 2.0 engines.
The BBR-Cosworth upgrades are readily available with the Stage One kit priced at £4,995 (US$8,005) excluding VAT and the export DIY kit at £4,295 (US$6,884).
Stage Two costs £6,395 (US$10,250) excluding VAT, when fitted at the tuner’s UK factory, while the export kit is more affordable at £5,455 (US$8,743).
By Andrew Tsaousis
PHOTO GALLERY