The Rorschach test allows psychologists to test the emotional functioning and personality characteristics of a subject. Psychologists do this by showing subjects inkblot cards and asking them what they see. This 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata on Autotrader (via Reddit) is the automotive equivalent of a Rorschach test.
Take a quick look at the vehicle. What do you see? Clearly, it’s a Ford Mustang from the ‘60s, right? Maybe not the best looking example, but it definitely looks like a ’65 Mustang. Others, though, will look at the wheels, the headrests, and wooden steering wheel and figure out that, in reality, this is a Mazda MX-5.
Well, the truth is that the car’s owner decided to take a 1997 Miata and transform it into a Mustang. We’ve seen a lot of things in the past, like V8-powered Miatas and Miatas that have been transformed into other classic machines, but this example is just confusing.
This isn’t the first time we’ve seen a Miata posing as a ‘Stang, though, as Mustang enthusiast and custom car builder Bill Carnes completed a similar build back in 2007. And while we can laugh at the idea of this Frankencar, the idea is to give enthusiasts the opportunity to have the classic look without breaking the bank.
While the exterior is pure Mustang, the engine is from a NA Miata; more specifically, a 130-hp 1.8-liter four-cylinder. So, there’s none of the V8 growl that you get with classic pony cars.
The interior is also unchanged from a regular Miata, besides some ill-fitting leather covers for the seats. The roll bars and soft-top are also Miata specific, and the tiny tires are also more fitting of a Miata than a classic Mustang.
With 94,595 miles on the clock, the powertrain has definitely being exercised. Plus, the body looks like it’s seen better days as well. Still, for a Mustang enthusiast out there that doesn’t have the funds to afford a true example, this copycat costs just $9,800.
So, in case you’re interested, we suggest you get some dark-tinted windows, so no one can look inside, and you just might be able to fool people into thinking you’re actually driving a classic Mustang.