Here are my broad design goals:
- Use 1994 (NA) Miata (MX5) engine, transmission, and differential.
- Frame follows general Vodou layout, which is based on the Haynes design with modified diff and rear suspension mounting. See Getting Started #1 to download the Vodou files.
- Sevenesque has some great ideas on how to build your suspension. One final suggestion was a modified front suspension support system. I plan to use a variation on this idea.
- Include the Miata Power Plant Frame (PPF) in the design. I just really like how the PPF ties the transmission directly to the differential. Including this in the design means the driveshaft tunnel will intrude on the passenger. It will also mean shortening the PPF, but that has been done before.
- Include strength improvements partially based on the finite element analysis report referenced in Getting Started #1 and partly on hand calculations. Weld the floor pan, tunnel, and other sheet to the frame. Here is an image from the report. The author made changes and then compared the torsional stiffness of the chassis to the original design.
- Aftermarket engine control unit (probably a MegaSquirt).
- Include a front roll bar in design.
- Cobra Roadster 7 seats that are 400 mm (15.75″) wide.
Still undecided:
- Instrumentation, use Miata or a digital display that is part of the ECU.
- Windshield. Aero screens seem easiest since no wipers are required. The next easiest is the standard flat seven screen. Would be nice to use a modified curved MGB windshield.
Ideas that seemed good, but will not be used:
- Move scuttle back about 6 inches to make cockpit more comfortable.
