The 1990 Mazda Miata Dragster is a Pocket Sized Rocket

When it comes to drag racing, most people imagine those sleek and elongated Funny Cars that can blaze past the quarter-mile mark in no time, leaving behind a trail of flames from their exhausts. However, a first-generation (NA) Mazda Miata is probably the last car that comes to mind when you think of drag racing. That’s what makes this 1990 Miata drag racer for sale on Facebook Marketplace so unique and intriguing. Despite the incongruity, I find myself drawn to it.

It’s difficult not to chuckle when you come across a tiny Mazda Miata with a massive dragster scoop on its hood, a wheelie bar, and Hoosier drag radials. It’s almost like seeing Danny Devito in football pads – objectively funny. But the hilarity doesn’t stop there. Pop open the hood, and you’ll find a massive Kaiser racing engine that’s sure to impress any gearhead. Currently, the car is being sold as a roller without the engine or transmission for $22,000. However, if you’re looking for a complete, running car, the seller is willing to part with it for $39,000.

If the Miata drag racer isn’t enough to pique your interest, the engine that powers it certainly will. The 322-cubic-inch (5.2-liter) Kaiser racing engine is a beastly piece of machinery that’s based on a Chevy V8 and features an Aurora short-deck block, Bryant crankshaft, Jesel Keyed lifters, and many other high-performance parts. With a staggering 855 horsepower, it’s almost comical to imagine what this engine could do in a stripped-out Miata body. If you’re interested in the engine itself, it’s also available for sale separately.

If you’re not interested in the complete car or engine, there’s still plenty to admire about this Miata dragster. The Chromoly 8.50 certified roll cage provides a sturdy framework for the car, while the custom-fabricated Chromoly four-link rear end with Strange Engineering double-adjustable coilovers, 40-spline aluminum differential, carbon fiber driveshaft, Hoosier slicks wrapped around beadlock wheels, wheelie bar, and new parachute are all top-quality components that are sure to impress any racing enthusiast. Even without a powertrain, this Miata dragster is a serious machine that’s ready to hit the track and leave the competition in the dust.

From the looks of it, this Miata dragster has been built with great attention to detail and top-notch components. While it’s always difficult to judge build quality without seeing a car in person, it certainly passes the eye test and looks like a well-crafted machine. If you’re in the market for a fun and unique pint-sized drag racer, this Miata is definitely worth considering. What’s more, you have the option to purchase it with or without the powertrain, giving you the flexibility to choose your own engine. Personally, I’ve never seen a Miata drag racer before, but after seeing this one, I’m itching to see more.

Photo Source: Mazda Newsroom