The Rocketeer MXV6 is a high-performance restomod of the Mazda MX-5 (Miata), developed by Rocketeer Cars in the UK. It replaces the original four-cylinder engine with a Jaguar AJ30 3.0L V6, delivering a significant boost in power while maintaining the car’s renowned balance and lightweight characteristics.
- Rocketeer Cars confirms successful conclusion of its recent funding round, bringing in new Investors and Advisors.
- Investment demonstrates confidence in Rocketeer’s unique approach to delivering accessible RestoMods and sports cars.
- Funding supports the development of two new world-class RestoBuild models to be launched in 2025, including the most extreme variant to date that’s designed to appeal to an entirely new sports car buyer.
- Investment allows Rocketeer to enter the important US market to support substantial existing and growing demand.
- Rocketeer ownership available through co-curated RestoBuild vehicles, Rocketeer-built Turnkey vehicles and self-build kits, with options from 280hp to 375hp from the Rocketeer 3.0-litre V6 engine.
(Hampshire, UK. 7 May 2025). Rocketeer Cars, manufacturers of the hand-built Rocketeer MXV6 RestoBuild sports cars, has announced the successful conclusion of its recent funding round, bringing new Investors and Advisors into the business to enhance its product offering and scaling its market presence.
The investment demonstrates external validation of the company’s progress, with more than 30 Turnkey and RestoBuild vehicles delivered, and over 150 self-build kits supplied to date. The company’s new investors are automotive enthusiasts and owners of several supercars and classic cars who, like Rocketeer, recognise the appeal of an old school analogue sports car but that uses the latest technology and materials in today’s niche automotive marketplace.
Rocketeer and its MXV6 RestoBuild sports car is a reaction to today’s modern supercars that have become faster, but more anodyne to drive, and whose limits cannot be explored in normal driving conditions. The Rocketeer MXV6 delivers the purest driving experience and previously unseen levels of sports car engagement and enjoyment.
The Rocketeer MXV6 is designed and built in Hampshire, UK by automotive industry experts and is currently available for both Mk1 (NA) and Mk2 (NB) versions of the Mazda MX5, in EU and US (Miata) specification. In its standard state of tune, the Rocketeer MXV6 delivers 280hp and an addictive sonorous engine noise, while still retaining the cars’ original benchmark drivability and handling.
The new investment will fund the development and completion of two completely new RestoBuild offerings for the company, as well as expanding into new markets.
In mid-2025, the company will launch the new Rocketeer Keiryō – Japanese for Lightweight. One of Rocketeer’s most discerning clients set its Research and Development team the task to build the lightest and most powerful Rocketeer MXV6 ever created. The Rocketeer Keiryō is targeting 850kgs and 375hp to deliver 441hp per tonne – the same power to weight ratio as the legendary Ferrari F40 and recent supercars such as the Lamborghini Huracan V10 and McLaren 620R. The Rocketeer Keiryō opens up the company to a completely new demographic of enthusiast driver, and once the first car is delivered to its owner, follow on cars are already available to order, with more details and specifications to follow nearer to launch.
The investment also supports the conclusion of the Mk3 (NC) vehicle, which is in the late stages of engineering development and has already been tested on the dynameter to more than 300hp as standard. Deliveries of NC cars are expected to begin in mid-2025. Given the volume of existing Mk3 cars on the roads, NC is expected to account for a significant proportion of future builds.
With existing build partners in Germany, Netherlands and Australia, another important development for Rocketeer is the ability to deliver vehicles in the important US market. With substantial and increasing interest for Rocketeer in America, the investment allows the company to deliver Turnkey and RestoBuild cars to US-based clients.
Today, Rocketeer MXV6 ownership is available through three routes. At its pinnacle, Rocketeer co-curates’ hand-built, bespoke RestoMod vehicles for its clients that feature one-off exterior and interior colours and materials to create cars that are as unique as the owners themselves. Turnkey cars are also available, where the company’s technicians install the new 3.0-litre V6 Rocketeer developed engine. Both Turnkey and RestoBuild vehicles are adorned with Rocketeer badging, and feature on the official Rocketeer register of vehicles. An accessible and comprehensive self-build kit is also available for enthusiasts.
The Rocketeer MXV6 pays homage to the world’s best-selling and best handling small roadster by retaining the world-class weight distribution and nimble handling of the original. But the Rocketeer MXV6 removes the underpowered four-cylinder engine and employs its 3.0-litre V6, Jaguar-derived AJ30 engine that was designed by Porsche and finished by Cosworth, conveying its world-class pedigree. Thanks to its over-square design, light weight and flexibility, the Rocketeer MXV6 engine delivers a high-revving, tractable and of course, tuneful driving experience.
The standard specification delivers 280hp but Rocketeer now offers a powerplant that delivers an output in excess of 375hp and revs to 9,000rpm, in an old school, analogue sports car.
Engine Conversion & Performance
At the core of the MXV6 is the Jaguar AJ30 V6 engine, originally designed by Porsche, refined by Cosworth, and used in various Jaguar models. In its stock form, this engine produces around 240 hp, but Rocketeer’s conversions typically elevate this to approximately 270–280 hp. With further modifications, outputs can reach up to 400 hp .
Despite the increased power, the aluminum construction of the V6 ensures that the car’s weight remains comparable to the original, preserving the MX-5’s signature 50:50 weight distribution . This results in enhanced acceleration, with 0–100 km/h times dropping to around 5 seconds, all while retaining the car’s agile handling.
Build Options & Pricing
Rocketeer offers several options for enthusiasts:
- Self-Build Kit: Priced at £5,995 plus VAT, this kit includes essential components like engine mounts, exhaust systems, and a CNC-machined flywheel.
- Electronics Pack: For £1,995 plus VAT, this pack provides a pre-mapped MBE ECU, engine harness, and necessary sensors
- Rebuilt AJ30 Engine: A fully rebuilt engine is available for £5,995 plus VAT.
- Turnkey Builds: Starting at £16,995 (excluding VAT and donor car), these professionally assembled cars offer a ready-to-drive experience .
- Restomod Builds: These comprehensive builds involve stripping the car to its shell and rebuilding it with custom options, including carbon fiber panels and bespoke interiors.
Driving Experience
The MXV6 delivers a driving experience that combines the MX-5’s nimbleness with the V6’s robust power. The engine offers a broad torque band, allowing for smooth acceleration from low RPMs, and emits a distinctive exhaust note that evolves from a deep growl to a raspy roar as revs increase . The car’s handling remains sharp and responsive, thanks to the preserved weight distribution and optional chassis enhancements like reinforced rails and upgraded suspension .
Availability & Expansion
Rocketeer has completed over 30 turnkey and restomod builds and supplied more than 150 self-build kits across Europe and the US. With recent investments, the company aims to expand its offerings, including the upcoming lightweight Keiryō model, and increase its presence in international markets
To date, over 150 Rocketeer kits have been installed in cars across the globe and more than 30 Turnkey and RestoMod cars have been built.
www.rocketeercars.com