1990 MAZDA MX-5 BBR TURBO ANNIVERSARY

This Mazda MX-5 BBR Turbo is a rare and thrilling version of the first generation ‘NA’ model, modified by a renowned tuner, and presented in superb condition. It is powered by a 1.6-litre B6ZE(RS) engine, which has been turbocharged to produce 221bhp, coupled to a five-speed manual transmission. The odometer shows 92,403 miles from new, but it has covered only 10,000 miles since a comprehensive rebuild by BBR GTi.

To mark 20 years of their original MX-5 BBR Turbo model, the UK-based tuning company released a ‘20th Anniversary’ special edition in December 2010, and this white car was the demonstrator for that programme. It was acquired by Neil McKay of BBR GTi in August that year, and was subjected to a comprehensive rebuild and upgrade. The car was re-registered as ‘G5 BBR’ and featured in numerous magazine articles between 2010 and 2013.

It was equipped with a bigger front-mounted intercooler, a Garrett GT25 turbocharger, a new ECU and larger injectors, cast alloy exhaust manifold and split downpipe, and a full stainless steel exhaust system. A BBR Stage One clutch kit was installed, along with bespoke suspension comprising adjustable Spax dampers and stiffer coil springs than the original 1990 BBR specification. The car has the taller final drive ratio from the later MX-5, as well as a Torsen limited-slip differential with uprated propshaft and driveshafts.

Uprated brake discs and larger calipers were fitted, as well as 16-inch alloy wheels. The body was enhanced with a front lip spoiler and rear wing that were finished in gloss black to match the wing mirrors. BBR also re-trimmed the interior in black leather, and installed a black mohair soft top. To have BBR GTi recreate the same car today would result in a spend of more than £12,000 in conversions costs alone. The dynamometer report from the 2010 build confirmed peak output of 221.8bhp, and the car weighs just 971kg. It is therefore capable of 0-60mph in less than six seconds and has a top speed of around 140mph.

The log book shows six previous registered keepers, and the current owner has compiled a comprehensive spreadsheet that documents ownership, servicing, maintenance, and MOT tests through the car’s life. It was acquired by the seller directly from Neil McKay in 2015, and he has since enjoyed around 7,000 mostly dry miles behind the wheel.

Today, the bodywork presents in excellent condition, with impressive shut lines and panel gaps. Prior to the BBR GTi rebuild, it evidently had attention to the underside to eliminate common rust issues. Its pearlescent white paint presents superbly, with only minor stone chips to the nose and minor scratches on the lip spoiler, as well as small blemishes on parts of the sills. The mohair hood with glass rear window takes slightly more time to stow away, but is an appealing upgrade over the vinyl item. The car rides on 16-inch alloy wheels, which are finished in gloss black and remain in very good order.

In the cabin, the black leather seats are in great shape, with no rips or tears, and only minimal signs of wear. The seller reports that there are some scratches on the centre armrest, and a hairline crack on the centre console below the radio, which are all shown in the photo gallery. There is also some wear to the gear knob and handbrake lever. An OMP Superleggero steering wheel is fitted, trimmed in black suede, as well as an aftermarket Sony stereo head unit, with CD player and USB and aux-in connectivity. A plaque on the dashboard confirms the car is ‘0001’ of the 20th Anniversary models built.

The car is fresh from a service carried out on 1 June 2020 at specialist MX5 Works in Leighton Buzzard. This consisted of an engine oil and oil filter change, as well as a full set of new brake discs and pads all round, and one new caliper. Its engine bay presents in superb condition, which is a reflection of its impressive mechanical health.

Prior to this, it was also seen by the same specialist in June 2019, which included renewal of the spark plugs, gearbox oil, differential oil, and brake and clutch fluid. In May 2019 it received a new battery and main fuse. It has always been serviced annually during the seller’s ownership. The camshaft timing belt was replaced during the rebuild in 2010, so should probably be changed again soon based on age rather than mileage.

The most recent MOT test was carried out on 1 June 2020, which resulted in a clean pass with no advisories (the MOT expiry date is now 27 Jun 2021). In the last 10 years, covering some 10,000 miles on the road, it has always passed first time. Other than one note about rear brake pad wear in 2019 - rectified by the fresh brake pads - it has never had any other advisories in this period either.

The wheels are fitted with Dunlop SP Sport 9000 tyres in size 205/50 R16 all round. They are date-coded to 2003, but remain in very good condition with no signs of cracking or perishing, and with 4-5mm of tread remaining.

Accompanying the car are all of the original books, as well as lots of receipts for servicing and maintenance work, and old MOT certificates. The summary below details full service visits, though the spreadsheet compiled by the owner also documents other maintenance and repair work. A custom car cover is included, as well as a spare steering wheel originally fitted by BBR, the locking wheel nut key, and two keys and remote fobs. Scans of various magazine articles are also in the history file.

The car was driven by John Simister in the December 2010 issue of Evo magazine, where it was awarded the full five stars. Simister concluded: “Blazing through Northamptonshire lanes, top down, heater blasting, catching each torque induced tail-flick with a quick counter-steer, is riotous entertainment. I’m having one of the best drives I’ve had all year”.

This Mazda MX-5 BBR Turbo 20th Anniversary is a tastefully upgraded example of one of the most popular sports cars. It boasts superb provenance, and as the original 2010 demonstrator model for BBR, benefits from the full suite of modifications that transform the performance of this first generation roadster. Presented in superb cosmetic and mechanical condition throughout, it is a unique car that delivers a seriously impressive driving experience.

Summary of service history:

  • 25 Sep 1990 - 752 miles
  • 6 Dec 1990 - 3,357 miles
  • 30 Jul 1991 - 6,406 miles
  • 3 Nov 1992 - 9,098 miles
  • 14 Mar 1994 - 11,667 miles
  • 8 Jun 1995 - 15,501 miles
  • 4 May 1996 - 18,589 miles
  • 30 Sep 1998 - 24,170 miles
  • 9 Feb 2000 - 35,996 miles
  • 18 Aug 2000 - 41,872 miles
  • 27 Apr 2001 - 47,346 miles
  • 6 Nov 2003 - 61,566 miles
  • 21 Jan 2005 - 65,961 miles
  • Dec 2010 - ~82,000 miles (BBR rebuild)
  • 22 Jun 2016 - 86,121 miles
  • 28 Jun 2017 - 89,958 miles
  • 28 Jun 2018 - 91,201 miles
  • 27 Jun 2019 - 91,980 miles
  • 1 Jun 2020 - 92,400 miles

Car Overview

  • 92,403 miles
  • manual
  • RHD
  • Pearlescent White
  • Black leather
  • 1.6L


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Lot Overview

  • Lot #00606
  • private Sale
  • Teddington, Middlesex, United Kingdom

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1990 MAZDA MX-5 BBR TURBO ANNIVERSARY1990 MAZDA MX-5 BBR TURBO ANNIVERSARY1990 MAZDA MX-5 BBR TURBO ANNIVERSARY1990 MAZDA MX-5 BBR TURBO ANNIVERSARY1990 MAZDA MX-5 BBR TURBO ANNIVERSARY1990 MAZDA MX-5 BBR TURBO ANNIVERSARY1990 MAZDA MX-5 BBR TURBO ANNIVERSARY1990 MAZDA MX-5 BBR TURBO ANNIVERSARY
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