A German evo reader fed up with the all-round underperformance of the latest Mazda MX-5 has taken the radical step of replacing most of its underpinnings with those of the rotary-engined RX-8.

Stefan Janssen has installed the 228bhp turbocharged engine, six-speed gearbox, brakes and steering from the four-door, four-seater into the little roadster and exhibited his creation at the Essen motor show in late November.