Swap Insanity: LS3 “Habu” Conversion from Flyin’ Miata

In Japanese a “Habu” is a very small but very venomous snake – a tiny unassuming creature that packs a serious wallop. That’s exactly why Habu is a perfect name for the latest LS-power conversion from the team at Flyin’ Miata. The Habu can get to 60 MPH from a dead stop in a blistering 3.8 seconds and is just as potent as the bigger snakes – like the Cobra and the Viper.

For the Habu, Flyin’ Miata will take your MX5 Miata and equip it with an LS3 crate engine that’s been upgraded with a Chevrolet Performance Parts Hot Cam. Power output of the Miata is essentially tripled with the 480 horsepower and 475 pound feet of torque, and best of all the LS3 only adds about 200 pounds to the car and still remains a very impressive 54-percent front weight bias.

The driveline is upgraded to a T56 manual 6-speed trans, and either a Getrag or Ford Limited-Slip rear end is used out back. The engine and trans are mounted using a fabricated tubular subframe, and a few modifications have to be made to the engine bay at trans tunnel to get everything to fit.

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The exterior can be left stock, or you can opt for the upgraded fender flares and spoilers for a slightly more aggressive look for your Habu. There are also plenty of options for suspension and brake upgrades as well as a four-point roll-bar, racing harness and updated gauges in the interior. Flyin’ Miata will convert your Miata into a Habu for right around $24,000, or if you prefer to do the work yourself, they’ll ship you most of the parts you’ll need for your own conversion for about $12,000. Not bad at all if you ask us…