VILLIERS V10 MAZDA MX5 CONVERSION
Villiers is developing an installation and conversion kit to equip a Mk1–Mk2 Mazda MX-5 with its 2-litre V10 engine. The development of the kit, together with the installation of the new engine, will be documented by motoring journalist and online presenter Michael Fernie, and released as a multi-part series next year.
Michael Fernie commented:
“I’m confident and excited that this will be a very special content series, both for BDI and for my new channel.
As I’ve mentioned previously, I envisage a three-part series: episode one covering the restoration, episode two focusing on the engine installation, and episode three completing the build and undertaking the road test.”
Following the initial trial-fit of the V10 block in the MX-5’s engine bay, it appears almost purpose-designed for the car. The photographs below show that the narrow-angle V10 provides ample clearance, even with the exhaust headers fitted, and mates directly to the stock bellhousing via an adaptor plate.
Villiers intends to offer the V10 engine and complete conversion kit for sale next year, following comprehensive testing.
The engine is expected to rev to 10,000 rpm and produce approximately 200 bhp in mild tune.
Villiers recently displayed their test car at the Classic Car Show at the NEC in Birmingham in November 2025 on Michael Fernie,s stand. The engine on display is the new iteration of the V10 incorporating new design revisions which include a new one piece crank, revised split block design, revised oiling system, and a number of other detail changes intended to improve reliability, cost of manufacture and performance.
