Paco's Off-Road Miata: A Tiny Sports Car Tackles the Trail

Daily Car

18/05/2026

Paco Motorsports has transformed the nimble Mazda MX-5 Miata into an unexpected off-road machine. Taking inspiration from their previous NA Miata builds, they've now applied their rugged modifications to the current ND generation, creating vehicles that can handle terrain far beyond the pavement. These custom Miatas, dubbed the Beachster and Simba, boast significant suspension upgrades and a host of off-road enhancements.

Key Takeaways

Paco Motorsports modifies the Mazda MX-5 ND for off-road use.
Builds feature long-travel suspension, all-terrain tires, and custom bodywork.
Two notable examples are the "Beachster" and "Simba."
Modifications include steel flares, tubular bumpers, and increased ground clearance.
Despite the rugged appearance, the core powertrain remains largely stock.

Off-Road Transformation

Paco Motorsports has taken the Mazda MX-5 ND, a car renowned for its on-road agility, and given it a second life off the beaten path. Following their success with lifting an NA-generation Miata, they've now applied similar principles to the current ND model. This transformation began with the "Beachster," a raised ND built for a customer in the U.S. Virgin Islands, followed by "Simba," destined for Tanzania as a desert daily driver.

From NA inspiration to ND off-road builds

Earlier NA build

Paco Motorsports first proved the idea by lifting the older NA-generation Miata for off-road use.

Beachster arrives

The first raised ND, called the Beachster, was built for a customer in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Simba follows

A second ND named Simba was then prepared for Tanzania, where it would serve as a desert daily driver.

Hardware Built For The Rough Stuff

To equip these Miatas for challenging terrain, Paco Motorsports has fitted them with robust components. Both vehicles feature hand-crafted steel fender flares, tubular bumpers equipped with recovery hooks, and additional LED lighting at the front. Side skirts have been designed to function as rock sliders, and a custom rear rack adds practicality. Sportier aesthetic touches include a vented hood, a subtle lip spoiler, mesh detailing between the taillights, and a twin center-exit exhaust system.

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What changed underneath

The biggest off-road gains come from suspension, tires, and chassis-related changes rather than a full powertrain overhaul.

Long-travel suspension

FOX shocks and a custom spring setup maximize suspension travel and raise ground clearance.

All-terrain grip

Chunky all-terrain tires replace the standard MX-5 rubber for better traction on loose surfaces.

Beachster-specific change

The Beachster adds a lengthened wheelbase so it can run a staggered rear tire setup.

Performance and Compromises

While these modified Miatas are significantly more capable off-road than many conventional SUVs, there are predictable compromises. Drivers can expect more body roll, a reduction in acceleration, and a decrease in fuel economy compared to a stock ND Miata. However, the naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine remains, albeit retuned for sharper throttle response. Paco also incorporated the limited-slip differential from the Fiat 124 Abarth, which features a shorter final drive ratio than the Mazda unit.

The Donor Car and Pricing

Both the "Beachster" and "Simba" are based on the MX-5 RF model, retaining its folding hardtop. The primary differences between them lie in their interior finishes, with the "Beachster" featuring a black interior and the "Simba" sporting tan trim. Pricing for these bespoke builds has not been disclosed. However, Paco's previous NA Miata off-road kits offer a glimpse into the potential costs, with the "Offroadster" kit starting at $4,999 and the more comprehensive "Conqueror" kit at $7,999, not including the cost of the donor vehicle.

Beachster, Simba, and reference kit pricing

Build or kit	Key distinction	Price
Beachster	Black interior, MX-5 RF donor, bespoke raised ND build	Not disclosed
Simba	Tan interior, MX-5 RF donor, bespoke raised ND build	Not disclosed
Offroadster kit	Previous NA Miata off-road kit	$4,999
Conqueror kit	More comprehensive NA Miata package	$7,999