So I have the chance to get a new rear end for my 93. I can get a rear subframe that's been modified for the Cobra 8.8 diff. It also comes with the custom axles to go into the stock Miata rear hubs, but the only part I need to get is a new rear driveshaft.

Should I go for this thing? It's just a little bit more than a standard 1.8 Torsen swap ... except this swap doesn't include the driveshaft.

 

Plus you'll need a replacement setup for the PPF. And it'll shake your *** off with the lack of rubber mounts. Trust me. I have one sitting in my garage...

-Aaron

 

Sounds like a pita to me. Especially considering the ease and strength of a simple 1.8 swap.

 

1.8 isn't as strong as everyone makes it out to be if your going to drag race.

That said, I have no input on the 8.8

 

that's laughable unless you're shooting for over 600whp.

 

if its going to be more of a drag car.id say go for it.

 

There is nothing wrong with over engineering. Go for it if it's in the budget. You'll also have to add a cross member for the trans since you'll lose the PPF.

 

The 8.8 is a good dif and if the subframe etc is setup like in a monster miata kit then the ppf should still work i think that peice and rear is like 2K+ new so it is a good deal in the torsen swap range. But unless you plan on ditching you 15g and running slicks. Cuase you would need 300+ lb/ft to endanger the 1.8 dif. And the 8.8 will be good even after you tub the car and get a powerglide etc.

 

stick with the rx7 or 1.8, over kill and its not over engineered it would be poorly engineered

 

there's a guy making ford 8.8 subframes for the FD

 

What sort of diff is it, open or lsd? Also, what is the gear ratio?

I'd look into how much different rear gears cost and what is available. If you see yourself swapping gear sets to optimize your set-up and the things are cheap it might make sense to do it.

 

But he has them mounted with the rubber pieces. The one for the Miata are not.

 

how much is he asking for it?

 

depending on your budget, i would do it.. that's a pretty much bullet proof setup for a miata.

 

It's for a ford, I would bet gears are dirt cheap..

 

last i checked v8 gears of most any sort are 200 or so new yeah i doubt he has a problem specing his desired ratio.

 

My 8.8 IRS setup is for sale if any one wants it. PM me for price.
-Aaron

 

you'll probably lose 15-20 rwhp with that 8.8 rear. good thing is no mazda engine can make enough torque to break it.

 

Overengineered is not always good. If you don't need the strength of the 8.8, why bother with the PITA factor, cost, labor, weight penalty, and additional parasitic drag.

 

Uh rotary etc i am sure there is a 3 port out there that could do it.