Description
26th Oct, 2024 10:00
The October 2024 Auction
1993 Mazda MX-5 1. 6 SE BBR Turbo
Rare and desirable BBR Turbo model
Estimate
£4, 500 - £5, 500
Buyer's premium: 15. 00%
Lot details
Registration: K499CUR
Chassis: JMZNA18Bthe details below
Odometer: 97, 473
Transmission: Manual
MOT: June 2025
Subject to recent bodywork restoration
Subject to a full turbo rebuild in October 2023 by Falcon Turbo Developments
22 stamps in the service history booklet
Complete with original book pack and wallet
Standard specification includes ABS, power steering, electric aerial, boot release, radio cassette, stainless steel scuff plates
Complete with hood cover
We are delighted to bring this 1993 Mazda MX-5 BBR Turbo to market. The 1st release SE model was based on a standard 1600cc MX-5. Only 200 units were made between April 1992 and August 1993 and cost £18, 686 to buy new. This special version was finished in Brilliant Black and sported 15" polished alloy wheels, low profile tyres and locking wheel nuts. The interior was nicely trimmed with tan leather seats and deep pile carpet with a wooden steering wheel, hand-brake grip and gear knob. Standard specification also included ABS, power steering, electric aerial, boot release, radio cassette, stainless steel scuff plates. The SE was a true retrospective look at the sports cars of yester-year and really caught the imagination of the public. Mazda were soon inundated with demands to continue the SE theme which inspired production of another SE (2nd Release) later the following year.
In addition to being a rare 1st release SE model, this is also a BBR Turbo. An option from the Mazda dealership for BBR to fit a turbo charger to the 1600cc engine. With 152bhp at 6500rpm, this roadster was mainly built for performance and capable of reaching 60mph in just 6. 8 seconds. BBR is an abbreviation for “Brodie Britain Racing” the company responsible for installing the turbo conversion kits which were so good that Mazda endorsed it with their own 3 year 60, 000 mile warranty.
The BBR turbo conversion kit included the following 68 parts:
A Garrett T25 Turbocharger with integral waste gate control and water cooling
Exhaust manifold cast in high temperature alloy with stainless steel heat shield
Air to Air Intercooler and associated pipe work cast to match finish of standard engine
Competition standard hoses throughout
Auxiliary engine management computer
Boost gauge fuel injection control with 3-dimensional mapping
Super and premium unleaded fuel grade switchover for optimum performance
Stainless steel exhaust down pipe
Modified sump
New induction system brace
Modified power steering, water and oil system pipework
BBR Turbo identification badges
The vendor states that this example has been subject to a bodywork restoration in recent times. There is some wear on the interior, as to be expected for a car that is 31 years old and has covered 97, 000 miles. The hood appears to be relatively new and unmarked. The alloy wheels will require refurbishment to bring the exterior up to show standard.
This MX-5 is a joy to drive, it provides endless fun flicking through the gears on the British B roads. The extra power from the turbocharger conversion is instantly noticeable, especially if you are used to driving the naturally aspirated models. It feels more torquey on the road and will propel you from 0-60 in 6. 8 seconds. This example has also evidently been well looked after throughout its life, with 22 stamps in the service history booklet, sometimes being treated to a service twice a year.
This really is a rare and collectible Japanese classic, that is plenty of fun to drive, on the button and ready to go, and well serviced. Be sure not to miss this one!
