We no longer represent Mazda MX-5, a Japanese roadster that has been available in four generations since 1989, and is more appreciated than ever by “JDM” fans. Inspired by the restomods trend, an Italian company called Gorgona cars created an unprecedented first generation (“NA”) version of the MX-5: the NM-Concept.

Gorgona Cars’ NM Concept (NM stands for “naked monoposto”, or “naked single seater” in French) is a Mazda MX-5 NA converted into single seater speedsterwhich features an improved chassis and a modern SkyActiv-G engine borrowed from the fourth-generation MX-5 (“ND”).

Gorgona NM Concept: an irresistible look

At first glance, we recognize the MX-5 NA with its rounded shapes and pop-up lights, and to turn it into a single-seat tray, Gorgona Cars directly inspired by concept cars from the Japanese manufacturer: Miata M Speedster (1995), Miata Mono Posto (2000) and MX-5 Speedster (2015).

The windshield and soft top were removed, and body extensions in the same color as the rest were applied to the passenger compartment to condemn the passenger seat and refocus the model on the driver. There is a specific aerodynamic hump behind the driver’s head, and the doors have also been modified to open only at the top.

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— AutoPlus (@AutoPlusMag) September 17, 2022

Gorgon N.M. Concept: sports spirit

Finally, some tuning elements were carried over to the original Miata, such as a blade under the front bumper, darkened optics and turn signals, LED headlights for sliding windows, matte black door handles, new mirrors, as well as new 15-inch Enkei RPF1 wheels with Yokohama tires .

On board, the tube blends into the case and borrows the MX-5 ND’s dials, which are more modern and feature a digital display. A keyless start system was added, and all unnecessary upholstery and elements such as the radio or ventilation were removed in order to reduce weight as much as possible. The Momo steering wheel retains the spirit of the original MX-5, while the RCC seats appear to be covered in Alcantara with yellow topstitching, as do several interior trim pieces.

Gorgon N.M. Concept: modern mechanics

Under the hood, we find a more modern engine, namely a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated SkyActiv-G unit borrowed from the latest generation MX-5 (ND), which develops around 180 horsepower and 205 Nm of torque. Everything is sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential borrowed from the MX-5 ND.

The chassis has also received some improvements that are not necessarily noticeable to make it more rigid: there is a transverse arch, reinforced spars at the front, rear and sides or even an adjustable suspension, as well as a more powerful braking system. And even if Gorgona Cars hasn’t announced performance figures, the NM Concept should offer more thrills than the original MX-5, with its 830kg weight and 180bhp.

Contrary to what its name might suggest, the NM Concept is intended for small-scale production: Gorgona Cars really wants to approve it in order to sell it. In terms of price, turning it into an NM concept would cost around €70,000, not including the cost of the donor MX-5 NA.

Take a basic Renault 5 Turbo, make it more aggressive and powerful until you reach 400 horsepower, a successful restomod? https://t.co/Hhr4vV0OG8

— AutoPlus (@AutoPlusMag) May 8, 2022