When passion meets folly, it sometimes results in totally improbable projects. Such is the case of this 2004 Mazda RX-8, currently for sale in Montague (Massachusetts), which hides a V8 engine under its hood... Maserati !
Yes, you read that right: the famous 4.2-liter V8 engine from the Maseratis of the 2000s, such as the Quattroporte and early Granturismo, has been transplanted into the Japanese sports car known for its rotary engine. The result: 400 hp and an Italian sound that's sure to turn heads at start-up.
The engine is mated to a Nissan 350Z 6-speed manual gearbox (CD009), thanks to a Speed Gems MAS101 adapter kit, specifically designed to link the Maserati/Ferrari F136 engine to the Japanese transmission.
This kit uses a Maserati flywheel, an original starter motor and a Nissan 350Z clutch, without cutting the gearbox housing. A feat of engineering by Speed Gems, which makes it possible to marry two mechanical components from totally different worlds.
The advert states that the car retains the air conditioning and all its original functions. The owner claims that it runs perfectly, although it suffers from a slight cooling problem when stationary, probably due to an undersized radiator.
Visually, this blue RX-8 remains relatively sober despite its spectacular swap, with a modified hood allowing part of the V8 to protrude and a discreet body kit. The seller, who is offering it for $20,000, points out that its history includes a front end rebuilt after a minor accident, which has since been repaired.
A totally wacky creation, half-Nipponese, half-Italian, combining the soul of a light, agile Mazda with the rage of an atmospheric Maserati V8. A blend of mechanical cultures that only the United States could dare!
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