LS3 Miata Build: Costs & Timeline

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thanks for watching everyone! You guys are the best!

[@Snoopmasta]

Thank you for sharing! You showed such dedication and attention to detail. You got the best stock V8 MX5 in the world. ;)

[@circle7motorsports]

I have no problem with people reading from a script

[@idriwzrd]

You're the best. I don't know anyone else who would put that much into a Miata.

[@Paul_VanGo]

I bet you got a great boost in views again this Xmas. I personally binged the build too... For at least the 5th time. It satisfies my OCD :)

[@carloscorona6112]

Tom's Turbo Garage what do you do for a living? :)

[@Boostedlifestyle]

Probably the most underrated channel

[@garagers6667]

Boosted Lifestyle definitely. I can barely watch any other car channels. He’s an actual car guy. And an OG at that. Not some guy that seeks YT fame and money.

[@StaySlyh]

Boosted Lifestyle Couldn't agree more! This channel, and project Thunderbolt specifically, is a massive inspiration. Long live the Turbo Garage!!!

[@amelb6533]

but does not upload so frequent

[@SlowGoat54]

@@amelb6533 yup! Sadly, upload frequency beats out content on youtube.

[@circle7motorsports]

why are you not working on the mustang fuckboi?

[@FrankGorilla]

Of all the engine swaps that I have seen on KZbin this was the best documented one. Being that this was pet project from a home garage. Video quality and presentation was above par. You should be proud of how you do it. Exceptional! Thank you! Project Thunderbolt and Project Binky best on KZbin .

[@Everythingisgoingtobealright]

Foguzmanfl One hell of a home garage, I can only dream of such an amazing space.

[@sijosue]

You're entitled to your opinion, but dang, "above par"?

[@Sennaxm71]

Don't forget Urchfab, he is a master welder, when i say master, I'm talking the likes of Yoda as a master ;)

[@izzyplusplusplus1004]

Full agreement with entire comment.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thanks ton for the kind words man! I appreciate your support.

[@TheCarPassionChannel]

This is a great contrast to Taylor Ray's build, showing 2 completely different ways to do an LS Miata. God I hope mine comes out to be less expensive than this 😂

[@saber0089]

You are referring to your LS3 swapped KTM?

[@TheCarPassionChannel]

@@saber0089 😂 no just my Miata that only has half of an LS in it

[@icarusflight2396]

@@TheCarPassionChannel so glad you're doing a SUMO build! Both my kids ride pit bikes (SSR) with that setup and they love them. Thinking about selling one of my motorcycles and building a 450 for myself.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Hi Greg! Great to hear from you sir! Yes I agree Taylor Ray did an excellent job. I love what you’ve done with your car and channel, keep up the great work and burn the receipts!! 🔥🔥🔥😀

[@micahhill4786]

TheCarPassionChannel are hitting at a future v8 Miata build

[@gtmike916]

I knew you were quite commited but DAMN. 43K+ and over 8 months in time + caring for your family and going to work too? Yeah you definitely should pat yourself on the back. Thank you for also proving a base line for a LS3 build too.

[@mrb2917]

He's sponsored by Summit Racing don't forget, most of this stuff was probably 'free'

[@gtmike916]

Bob Dobalina That is true as sponsors are pretty lucrative. Still such a great series, I want to see another if possible.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you for the kind words man, yeah it was quite a ride! Glad you enjoyed the videos, it was my pleasure to share the journey with everyone.

[@G029er]

If you factor in 8+ months of perfect labor, it's a $100k car. Total labor of love. Very cool.

[@LaSouthernGemini]

I'm glad you stated this b/c that is what I was thinking. My cars often take plenty of my time and the more of a perfectionist I TRY to become the more time. And if I were getting paid then it would need to be factored in. This ride is so well done and add in camera work, editing, research, keeping ones sanity....

[@johnlynch8946]

I'm a year late watching this recap video.. I don't know why it didn't pop up on my feed. I'm glad i found it. I burnt all of your thunderbolt videos to a disk.. made 2 copies in case one stopped playing lol. I'm hoping to catch you & the miata in person in Atlanta at one of the caffeine & octane car shows. Your videos have been a inspiration on helping me on my 95 miata build. Thanks for the videos and hope to meet you someday.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

You're welcome John, thank you for the kind words and support and enjoy your build!

[@randallmilton]

~$40k go have a relatively bulletproof roadster with near 50/50 weight distribution, analog feel, and all of the creature comforts sounds like a bargain to me. Plus the feeling you have knowing you did it all yourself. Great work, great channel, I’ve followed since the beginning.

[@goldenageofdinosaurs7192]

Randall Spaulding That’s what I thought too. I see people in the comments complaining about the price & I just think they don’t get it. That’s basically a brand new Miata with a corvette engine. 40 grand is a pretty good price. The satisfaction of doing a project like that by yourself is priceless.

[@SloppyMechanics]

I think it’s funny that people are surprised I love toms turbo garage, I love his attention to detail and zero compromise for what he wants and what he expects, his execution and fit and finish is second to none, better than factory, this is usually the complete opposite of what I do of course but one is the biggest reasons i enjoy seeing what he does. Dare I say his super nice builds heavily influenced my recent expensive “nice” build... Thank you for what you do Tom, you’re an asset to the community with your work ethic and non click bait follow the leader car guy stuff that you put out. Firm handshakes. -the denbob

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Man, you are far too kind sir! Thank you for the gracious support. Your influence and selfless knowledge sharing has helped so many car guys. I watch my favorite KZbin channels and other related videos most nights before bed and I am constantly hearing them reference your videos, setups you've recommended, tuning tips and more. It's so dang great man and I have been reading and re-reading your wiki for some time trying to absorb as much as I can. Can't thank you enough for that! Hope to meet you and shake your hand someday sir.

[@BLKMGK4]

Been following your build CLOSE too! Badly want an FD3 or Miata with an LS but a G35 and a blown LS is high on the list too. So many options from you guys - keep it up!

[@SloppyMechanics]

of course again LMK if you are ever in this area i can make dyno access and tuning fairly easy, ethanol sensor and tuning? win win? lol

[@TomsTurboGarage]

@@SloppyMechanics 100% Will do, thank you. Gonna get my hands on a tow rig and head that way!

[@jrbay1]

Yes , one could buy a new car for $38,000 but he built a dream for that price and it is essentially a brand new car, Engine drivetrain everything is new suspension brakes tires wheels, Tom s not so crazy .

[@brucegordon9615]

Tom, thank you very much for all the effort and thought that went into your project. As a result of your video series I purchased an NB Miata and did an LS drivetrain swap on my car. Would never have done it if not for your inspiration and guidance. Also, I bought parts from your sponsors whenever practical.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Hi Bruce, great to meet you and thank you for the very kind words and support! I wish you the best of luck with your build, I still drive Thunderbolt regularly and love it to death! 👍🏻👍🏻

[@emericaman16]

I'm going to rewatch this series. It's just SO good.

[@thewakz]

I am going to rewatch it backward so the car turns into a stock NB Miata.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you Kyle, I appreciate that sir!

[@125AXer]

@@TomsTurboGarage I binge-watched all of the build episodes. Greedy, I guess. Great stuff. One of my main reasons for watching was that a friend built one from a car he had bought new, and had taken through super and turbo charged mods. His LS motor and trans came from a wrecked GTO, and the diff from a CTS-V. He posted a timeline of the build with photos, but I think it may be gone. Sadly, he passed away about a year ago, and as a young guy like yourself. I hope that his car is out there still, a testament to Mike's skill and perseverance.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

@@125AXer Thank you for checking out all of the videos and I'm glad you enjoyed them! Sorry to hear about your friend, I'm sure the car is still out there tearing up the streets.

[@Sennaxm71]

I only came across your build a few weeks ago, and thought, that looks interesting, so block watched the lot in a few days, and was very impressed with the quality of the build and your attention to detail, making it look stock is brilliant, especially when you took it to a show and seeing the people walking by and their face when they first look and think, "oh it's just an MX5" (I'm from UK, that's what we call them here ;) ), and then they see all that V8 goodness wedged in there, most can't even believe their own eyes :) I love how it sounds and for £38K you've got something that would kick most other car's ass and the best bit is, you built it, your hands created it, lovingly caressed those parts before fitting them, and hat's off to you for it running perfect since, it's a true testament to the fact that you put thought into everything that you worked on, well done chap, i can see you're proud of it, and so you should be ;)

[@jonathanguach4709]

What enjoy the most about your channel is the pride in the work, and attention to detail.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you Jonathan, I appreciate you saying that sir!

[@XBlockAcah]

Put 40k into 10k car. Non car guy won't understand why it's a normal thing to do.

[@oliverdodic756]

X Blocky tommyfyeah spent over 40 grand on his k swapped miata as well

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Haha! Very well said sir! 😀

[@w41duvernay]

Could have just brought a Vette. or DID a down payment of a Zr1 vette.

[@BigBoyLies]

@@w41duvernay but wheres the fun in that?

[@lolzlarkin3059]

w41duvernay Yeah but think how much you would end up spending on mods for that vette!

[@tiborklein5349]

Suddenly I don't feel like rebuilding any car ever.

[@tolga1cool]

That's why I like watching videos like this. I love the process and all but I'd never ever do something like this. Yes it's fun, yes it's a hobby. But financially it's shittons of money down the drain

[@touristguy87]

@@tolga1cool not really worried about the cost because you're paying for the performance...what kills me about this build is the vast amount of time and money to get a car that is maybe a second faster on a srip & he probably could have gotten comparable power levels out of the stock engine...it's like he did it just for the sound of the car or something, and obviously the "cool idea" of stuffing an LS3 small-block into a Miata (which obviously is not all that hard to do, as long as you have the time and patience and skill to do it) and you have to wonder how much of it was covered by sponsors like Summit Racing itself meaning that it was largely a sponsor-driven build. Obviously it had been done before. Plenty of times. It just seems to me that it would be a much better idea to just go buy a Vette with all the hw already built into it and put a custom body on it.

[@tolga1cool]

@@touristguy87 it's a unique and totally awesome car. There is so much more to modifying cars then numbers. But honestly it's not for me. I'd just go out and pay half of what he put into his project and buy a decent car with similar Performance.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Haha! Yeah, it's easy to lose momentum on a big car project. My advice is like any big complicated job- just break it down into small jobs and get crackin!

[@touristguy87]

@@tolga1cool LOL yeah comparing this car to a stock Vette, Mustang, Camaro or Charger does that actually make sense? Not really if you can take 500-1000 lbs out of the car....this has to do at least one thing, inspire someone to take a stock car with a comparable drivetrain and lighten it by 1000lbs. But of course a big-bore kit and a blower, thats so common nowadays that there has to be a strong market for parts and plans to do it also. Several ways to skin this cat.

[@speedygonzales9090]

Glad to hear you like the idea. I have a "1990 Mustang GT" beefed-up and one of the items I added to it, is precisely a "chromed rolling bar" it makes the car look a lot cooler than without it and in the event of a roll over accident, it'll prevent the roof from caving in, thus injuring or worst killing me, even more reasons for you to have one in your car, since it's a convertible, without a solid roof. Again, "CONGRATULATIONS", you did a heck of a job with your Miata. Cheers !!!

[@fourseasonsandles]

Great vid. People really underestimate how much a swap like this really costs

[@skipsterz]

Tom, I just want to give you some respect and gratitude for your hard work. I know it’s not easy to be a husband and father, a “one man show”, meet your sponsorship deadline and have a well sorted, quality build and finished product to showcase. You did a fantastic job, There’s so many other channels and sponsored builders out there, that showcase unfinished and unsorted products, even though they seem to show off their struggles and mishaps just fine on their channels. I found your channel by accident, I guess you can say but have quickly become a dedicated fan. I’ll be watching. Cheers!

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Good to meet you man and thank you for the very kind words and support! I'm glad you found my channel and enjoy the videos. I hope to make videos more regularly this year so I'll see ya then! 👍🏻

[@iMann_iFail]

To be fair, I guessed around 50k. Obviously you were sponsored and supported throughout the build, so it cheaper than your given figure... but it’s awesome to know a ball park figure for those who are planning a build like this. ..and Tom superb effort, creating this content for us is amazing especially when you’re doing it all off of your own back without KZbin support, I don’t think people realise how much time it takes to film a series like this.. considering you have a family to support as well and other work commitments.

[@EldarKinSlayer]

No, he said this is straight cost using today's prices. NOT what he paid. Supply Flyin Miata with a car and they'll do it for about $50,000.

[@Turbochargedtwelve]

“Free” But he put in 40+hrs/wk for six months by the sound of it to fulfill those sponsor commitments. And I’m guessing they maybe covered half the costs of the build. In the end it wasn’t quite as free as it seems at first blush lol

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you for the kind words and support sir, you were close! I'm glad you enjoyed the videos and yes, it takes so much more time than most would expect. I love sharing the car hobby with fellow enthusiasts like yourself though, I just gotta find time to do it a little more often!

[@MrVentrilo]

Project Thunderbolt is to this day the only You Tube build I have not a singe gripe with. perfection.

[@ramakky68]

To this day that Miata build is still the best build video I have ever seen. Amazing job on every aspect. You are the most professional/experienced sounding person on KZbin.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you for the very kind words Kyle, I appreciate the support man!

[@AmplifyDIY]

I just found this series a few days ago.. binge watched the entire thing. Love the attention to detail, and the results are fantastic!

[@dadafan5921]

Tom, I told you about my dream camaro (and you gave me a red heart, thanks). What I didn't say was what he cost... To recap: 2012 Camaro SS with ALL bells and whistles, K&N intake and filter, 2 3/8 lift cams with HD valve springs, ceramicised American Racing headers, 3" 304 stainless steel crossover pipe and mandrel bent piping tig welded to fit leading to Borla racing mufflers. (Think glas-pak with no glass.)The car was then tuned on a dyno to produce 600 hp and 474 lb ft peak torque at the engine. Including labor, which I did pay for (as previously noted, I no longer could do that kind of work), total cost was a whopping $67,000. About the same price as the 2012 top end Corvette he was designed to eat for lunch. Ate them he did and had 20 more HP than the supercharged factory ZL-1 and weighed about 300 pounds less. I loved the car. The fastest he ever went was 163 mph. He still had 2500 rpm before the red line and clearly wanted to run. I feared air would get under him. [He? This was NOT a girly car.] Someone will surely ask why I didn't supercharge. This car was a modern update of my 1970's dream rebuild. Superchargers cost (in today's dollars) about $40,000 back then -- no cnc. We all knew for a shadetree rebuild a blower was not in the picture. Nevertheless, your Miata (I owned one just like yours, but a stock 2009) would likely have given it a hard time. Even guessing high on labor I think you, cash-wise, got a better deal. The other commenters are spot-on about your channel -- keep up the good work.

[@petertwiss356]

hands-down the best car build video series I have seen on youtube.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you for saying that, I appreciate your support!

[@TheToycloser]

You are so close to blowing up this KZbin channel and not needing to go to work. 1 major build and you'll be at 1 million subs.

[@izzyplusplusplus1004]

That's what I think too!

[@ouroborosrecords]

You get about 1/4 of a cent per view, so while a million subs may seem like a lot, its not like you can kick back and retire from day to day work

[@bryanleverett2830]

Ken Gendron like $7,000 per million views. I stopped watching after the.... (being nice) little uninteresting car showed up. But wow, I really loved the Miata and VR4 builds. I totally agree. Fox body mustangs with turbo LS swaps are so common, but I bet something common, but done the super OCD turbo Tom way would just sky rocket the viewers. Kind of an opposite of sloppy mechanics (which I love too ).

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you for saying that Ken, I definitely love sharing the car hobby with folks like yourself. Thank you for the great support sir!

[@TheToycloser]

@@ouroborosrecords you're not paying close attention to KZbin creators nor the money they are making. Yes, they get money per click but they also receive sponsorships and sell merchandise. Then there is Patreon...

[@JoseMartinez-zi6md]

I've seen the entire series in 1 week and I have to say yo I'm astonished with the care, respect, quality and obssession with detail you showed us. You end up with a car witch could not be best taste for everyone, but it is trully a masterpiece. I hope you enjoy your monster during years and years to come. Yo have done a mindblowing job. My deepest congrats.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you for the kind words and support, I'm glad you enjoyed the series!

[@rhilton1881]

Tom, thanks for the information and a glimpse of what you went through building your V8 Miata. I watched every episode and was sorry to see them end! And, I often considered and thought about the effort to produce your interesting videos and was concerned that you were in danger of burning yourself out making these very interesting clips for us to enjoy. Yep, I knew, or at least suspected, that making the car of my dreams wasn't going to be cheap, but I salute you for doing the job right and I admire your organization skills and the workman manner that you went about the job. Thanks again for doing this project and best of all, including a detailed video log of your progress. The end result justifies the cost and effort. You have a very special car that's the envy of anyone that loves cars.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Hi Rick, always great to hear from you sir! You've always been so supportive and positive and I thank you for that. This project could be done for much less if the parts list was altered a little and you'd still have a super fun car. Thanks again and I appreciate the support over the years.

[@dkhallal]

I just binged this entire project over the last few days. I just want to say I am a KZbin junky and watch way too much. This is by far one of the best projects on every aspect; production (even the music chosen and short fun stuff was all done with class), camera prescience, education value, and subject interest. Your meticulous methodology and the fact you used only the special tools when absolutely necessary made it look doable. Heck, I’m just a oil change and brake job kind of mechanic but am seriously thinking, no, knowing, that I will do this someday. Well done dude, love how it turned out and yes, that sound is intoxicating! Happy driving.

[@infamousjdp]

Seriously one of the best automotive channels. Great content Tom!

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you sir, glad you enjoy it!

[@ssplintergirl]

Not going to lie, you have inspired me to make stuff "the right way". What I mean is your shop is organized, your work is full assed, and every i is dotted and every t is crossed, I really admire your work.

[@nbowling10trio]

Sounds expensive but it's basically a brand new supercar. It's much less expensive than most almost new supercars. I'm a big guy and I couldn't live with a miata, I've driven them and could not get comfortable for more than a few minutes so my build would start with a larger car. 350Z,370Z,G35 or G37 would be my dream build with the drivetrain you used. The miata likely faster due to weight but I'm six three and two twenty five. Two xl shirts and thirty four waist. Size thirteen shoes need room under the dash. Great build, I been following you many years and your one of my favorites!

[@QuickQuips]

Nick Bowling Maybe an RCF would be in your range. They are quite unpopular so they are good values used.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Hi Nick, thanks for the perspective and yeah a Miata is definitely too cramped for big dudes. Any of those you listed would make for a real beast and the dangerous part is that there are great companies that make all of the conversion parts you need. Hide the credit cards! 😀

[@johnbarnard4303]

Your dedication to the project was inspiring. Thank you. I mean, it's just another car and, no, you were the star, not the car.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you for the kind words sir, very glad to hear that you enjoyed the series!

[@davebigelow5952]

you forgot the hood latches......😂

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Rats!!! Good eye sir, how the heck did I miss that?! Ok, add $140 to the bottom line please 😀👍🏻

[@xXClassifiediLINKXx]

was looking at that myself as was over your shoulder, then come down to comments to say the same thing.. otherwise, great job dude, looks great and sounds sweeter...@@TomsTurboGarage

[@dangs4m230]

@@TomsTurboGarage Why did you add those latches instead of keeping it stock?

[@carbonarne675]

@@dangs4m230 needed additional fixing for trackdays

[@assaultinhell]

the airintake is the reason,look the build Videos and you will see ;)

[@BernardLSmith]

My name is Bernie Smith. I have built a 2007 MX-5 with the 6.2L, 520 HP drive train out of a 2015 SS Camaro. It took me 4 years to complete the build. It took me nearly 2 years to make a wide body on the rear. I am running 10" wide tires/wheels on the rear, so, I had to widen the rear fender wells 6" out side to outside. The front wheels are 9 ". I made up ultra light rotors F&R and am running Wilwood 6 piston front calipers and I designed and manufactured a pinion mounted parking brake to lighten the unsprung wheel weight. I am also running a carbon fiber drive shaft in order to cut vehicle weight, as well as a carbon fiber custom hood and trunk lid. I viewed and used your videos as an inspiration and for your experiences to enlighten me to help me do the necessary work. I have worked on domestic cars and trucks an dirt track cars for 60+ years, but never on a Miata. I was even an auto mechanics Instructor for 12 years. So, you see, I was very happy to watch your video series to give me tips and pointers as I proceeded On my build. Thank you very much Tom! Bernie Smith😁😁😃😃

[@JK-co6wk]

So for about the same price as a low mileage 2014-15 Z51 Corvette with the same drivetrain in it. If I had the support system and finances I'd have done it too. I've gotta say, what surprised me the most was how clean you were able to keep that garage during the whole process. Your garage was spotless the whole time.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thanks man, glad you enjoyed the videos! I have an attic storage space in the garage, which is how I can keep the main level from getting cluttered.

[@MattsAwesomeStuff]

I just discovered this and binge watched it. I feel the same way that people who discover Project Binky in another year or two will feel. I'm sure I just don't appreciate how nice it is to watch the whole series and not have to wait 4 years :P

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thanks for checking out the videos man, glad you enjoyed em!

[@ALAPINO]

Quite frankly, because of your obvious discipline and planned approach to this build: your $43K would have been far inflated. Cheaper options: sure, but I would much prefer to have an 'easy' done right than 'easy' done poorly with likely issues cropping up to completely negate any cost savings. Thanks so much for sharing, it's been a fantastic ride!!!! Cheers!

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you for saying that sir, I appreciate it. Glad you enjoy the videos, it's fun sharing them with fellow enthusiasts!

[@ALAPINO]

You're most welcome! I'm so very happy to see a channel like yours, with all your hard work, grow. Keep it up, good sir!

[@jacquescourteau4366]

I haven’t watched very many car build videos, but this one was the most informative, best laid out one and really gave a good idea of just how many things and how much work is involved. Thank you very much for this!

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you for the kind words sir! Glad you enjoyed the videos.

[@ukaszCelinskiDrozd]

Great project. Lot of work not only with a car but making a video. Respect man. This price for me is out my reach but this project is so inspiring. I'm collecting cash for my first miata and maybe some day I would start my own project. Keep up good work man.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you man, I appreciate the support! Good luck on saving for your Miata, even a bone stock one is about as much fun as you can have for the money. 👍🏻

[@LeninVera]

By far one of the best most detailed and complete build series on KZbin so underrated such a fan love it keep it up Tom

[@LOLHICRONO]

I honestly thought it would be way more expensive, because the end-product really does look like it. Great job. :)

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you sir! 👍🏻

[@FLEXCopMNPD]

Literally binge watched this while laid up in bed with the flu. Definitely made me feel better :) Tom, you did an amazing job. Your attention to detail is second to none. Well done. Really enjoyed this series. Thank you very much.

[@jonnygg6594]

You did an awesome job on this car Tom!! Very good series. I binge watched the series on Halloween 2016 when i discovered your channel.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you for the kind words sir and I appreciate you checking out the videos!

[@dadmezz4024]

Had a Sunbeam Alpine and dreamt about a tiger. Dream never came true. Thank you for a wonderful build series and can appreciate your hard work to bring this beautiful Car to regality. When you totally dismantled the Miata, I was in awh, until I saw you put it all back together....awesome and cool. Love that Miata is still around for the future fun for the following generations to play with....quality shows in its longevity. Excellent project and presentation. Thank you for sharing it.

[@krulzs]

😢 i would love to see a 2008 Mazda Rx 8 with all the goods That you've done to the miata, but just in my dreams. Love your channel!!

[@sevenmileshome]

I've been looking into this. I've always liked the way the RX-8 looks, just the motor is not so great.

[@tomtruesdale6901]

You did an outstanding job on the car and I you came in under what I was expecting the cost to be. Car is beautiful and I bet it is a blast to drive.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you for the kind words sir! It's so fun to drive, surprisingly docile but really rips when you need an eye opener. 😀

[@tomtruesdale6901]

@@TomsTurboGarage You car is pretty much a true "Sleeper" in that it just appears to be "just an older Miata with loud pipes" . Bet you can give most of the newer cars a run for their money so to speak.

[@fernanaquino2482]

I died on the cross eye lol

[@TomsTurboGarage]

🤪

[@Snicker60515]

I'm finally gonna comment here after binging the series between yesterday and today. This was an inspired series and it brought back memories of Power Block TV and those great shows from TNN. You too Mitch must remember those since we're about the same age(40?). Anyway, this series blew away those shows only because of the follow-up with the car. Usually these things are finished, we get a brief look and on to the next project, but not here. Series like these also remind me that I made some iffy choices back when deciding on a career and I really should have gone into the automotive industry instead of college, oh well! That said, you truly shined during this project and even though I'll never have the means to do anything like this, I can look back on all my little car projects and know I always had the potential to do something like this. Hopefully the young among us can see this series or ones like this and get inspired to go into the automotive industry because men like you are a dying breed. Now, about the car. I can understand why you chose the '04 as it's analog enough to not give you problems like the new Miata does with this exact build. Not a single code thrown is a testament to how good cars used to be and how with a little help, this project resembles something built in a factory and not a garage. Cheers to you Mitch for this incredible accomplishment! Now get out there and drive!

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you for the extremely kind words sir, I appreciate it very much! Oh yeah, I grew up watching all of those old car shows on TNN and then later on Spike TV. It always made me insane how poorly they "paid off" some of their season-long projects. Who let that happen?! It still makes no sense to me. Thanks again!

[@flybywire5866]

I would have thought it to be significantly more expensive. Of course the labour would raise the price tag a lot.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Given the bevy of new parts, I think the costs are in line too. Thanks for checking out the videos!

[@numinous4789]

I love Thunderbolt - absolute cleanest LS-swapped Miata I've seen. You started with such an great-shape Mazdaspeed Miata, and your work/build concept turned out a factory-fresh looking end-product. Amazing!

[@Emilthehun]

I don't think you could go out to a dealer and buy a new car that matches the performance or fun factor of this car for that money. So from that perspective, you done well. Oh and YOU DID IT YOUR SELF! Good job sir!!

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you for saying that sir, I'm glad you enjoyed the videos!

[@Emilthehun]

@@TomsTurboGarage yes I did sir! Thank you for sharing this Journey !

[@1957robertjohnson]

This was absolutely the most professional build I've seen. Actually I wonder if I could count on a professional to be so meticulous about the details. I know you must have heard it thousands of times already. But great job.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you for the kind words Robert!

[@EldarKinSlayer]

I absolutely loved this series. The only question I have is, when will it be made to fit Tom's TURBO Garage?

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you sir! Haha, that's a fair point. 🤔

[@brettwhitla4425]

Excellent build Tom. Great to see you got what you were working for..... Ever considered having multiple, switchable maps on the ECU? Have different modes for Daily/Normal, Wet/Winter and Track/Race.. Might reduce that white knuckle driving experience in the rain, have a good fuel economy with the option to let the horses out with the flick of a switch.:)

[@bandicoot543]

Yay thunderbolt!

[@TheFringes.]

Thanks for being transparent with your viewers, many other youtubers wouldn’t discuss things like this

[@TomsTurboGarage]

You're welcome sir, glad you enjoyed the video.

[@keithhamm6012]

I enjoyed this video series very much and look forward to meeting you and the car at MATG 2019. I must say though, I could almost read the cue cards in your sunglasses. 😂 Regardless, you did what you needed to make sure this series looked great and it definitely shows. I wish I had to time/money to do a project of this size. Great job sir! 👍

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you for the super kind words sir! I definitely look forward to meeting you and MATG! Haha and yeah, I had some notes stuck to the old tripod there- I didn’t want to forget anything 😀😀

[@leevongyang9458]

This got to be one of the best swap series that I had ever watched. Just finished watching the videos in one day. Great Work Tom!!

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you for the kind words and support!

[@terrancebarrett727]

Damn! Your crazy Tom! But I love it!

[@TomsTurboGarage]

🤪😀👍🏻

[@lkibbler]

I just finished watching the entire series from beginning to end and want to say thank you for all the work you put in on the car and all of the work you must have spent making the videos. You and your Thunderbolt are both awesome and I thoroughly enjoyed the journey. I have to say it makes me miss my 2008 Corvette coupe with its amazing LS3.

[@suddendilemma5137]

Being that the car is so well done and if you factor in performance for the money 40k is really not that bad. Is there anything out there that could match its performance and quality for the money. 🤔 a mid/high spec brand new Honda odyssey is going to run you the same price. Albeit would make the wife a whole lot happier.

[@stevecroes1]

Thanks for the series! I enjoyed watching everyone of them! It’s definitely a great build! And thanks Summit Racing and all the others for helping to sponsor this project! Five *s!

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you for the kind words Steve! Glad you enjoyed the videos.

[@Revo900]

This should race TommyFyeah

[@micahhill4786]

Revo900 he doesn’t want to race

[@SlickRick214]

tommyfyeah is f boy okay

[@micahhill4786]

Rick Rocha he doesn’t want to race because that how people get killed or get seriously hurt from stupid roll racing

[@Revo900]

Micah Hill I didn’t say roll or street race. They can do it at a track with safety gear and what not.

[@blindabinda1234]

I line Tommys cars and content and all but that car is gutless

[@spoogle621]

of all the build channels you've always been at the top of my list, it all began when you built your VR4(my dream car, was never released in my country only a GTi) . great content as always.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you for telling me that, I appreciate the support and motivation!

[@kinslayergaming3159]

Tom be honest the sunglasses are to keep sunscreen from getting in your eyes 😂😂

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Haha! That’s a deep cut from the Galant series! Nice man!! 😁😁😁

[@kinslayergaming3159]

@@TomsTurboGarage 😂😂 I can't wait for the next AZ1 video

[@TomsTurboGarage]

@@kinslayergaming3159 Got some fun stuff to look at in the next one! 👍🏻

[@DMoots]

Thanks for sharing this usually private information, you don't get it a lot. Also thanks for all the time you put in to make the series, you're very modest about the effort you put into this.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

You're welcome and thank you for the kind support!

[@The305Garage]

Love your work Tom. I watched the entire series back then and really enjoyed it, as well as your GN work. I'm still sad you sold your GN. I'm never selling mine. I'm in the middle of rebuilding an LS Swapped Porsche 911 now. Hope to see more content, builds from you in the future. I'd love to do some collaboration work with you one day. Love your standards!

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you for the kind words sir! Yeah, I still miss the GN but it needed a full exterior restoration. I'm always casually looking 🧐 I just subscribed to your channel, you've done great work on there!! Good luck with your LS Porsche, I can't wait to check out the videos! Oh and a collaboration would be awesome, are you ever in Tennessee by any chance?

[@The305Garage]

@@TomsTurboGarage Not too often, once in a while I take a trip to TN. Hopefully we can figure something out. You ever come to Miami, FL?

[@The305Garage]

@@TomsTurboGarage Thanks for the sub man, I appreciate that! I've seen all of your videos, LOL.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

@@The305Garage You're welcome sir, I'm always looking for good car videos like you're making from independent folks and sadly KZbin has no interest in reccomending them to me. I used to live in Florida but haven't been to the Miami area in some time. I'll definitely be in touch if I'm down that way!

[@xcharles1]

Well done, Tom. I’m a few years late to this series, it I’ve watched it all over one day. Great result, and the series and production filmed is of very high quality. Thank you!

[@1800saulm]

Are you coopers dad?

[@izzyplusplusplus1004]

Hahaha! He looks like he might be related!

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Maybe? 🤨

[@BKHD8]

I watched the series twice so far from start to finish. It was so well done I plan on watching it many more times. Keep up the good work.

[@Jsbs1991f]

How many people have you torn to shreds with this car?

[@TomsTurboGarage]

🤫

[@joshuaashcroft6674]

I have always wanted to build a Miata like this and you have just given me the knowledge of parts and prices for me to better understand what goes into something like this.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Glad I could help man, good luck if you end up building one!

[@upfreaks]

*We can see the script in your sunglasses..* 😎

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Oh yeah, I gotta have my notes, I had one shot to get all of this right and didn't want to forget anything.

[@THEALKYL]

And some people complain about the cost of the turn-key Flying Miata V8 ND. Tom, your build was done so professionally, so clean, truly awesome!

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you sir!

[@marcosaruca5283]

How much of these costs where covered by sponsors and youtube

[@CharlieBrown-pb9xn]

Nearly all

[@maticusgfunk]

So glad I found this now as everything was finished and I could just binge the hell out of it lol. Great job Tom's Turbo Garage! what an awesome car man. One of a kind!

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you for the kind words and I’m glad you enjoyed the videos! 👍🏻

[@nbrowser]

"Dear god I hope my wife never sees this" yep, some women never understand the power of the car.

[@VS666]

i understand the joke but in all reality i'm sure Tom provides a very well living for his family so what does she care. it's 2019 as well, im sure she helps just as much as he does. judging by his demeanor i am guessing she's a pretty cool cat

[@TomsTurboGarage]

😀

[@cliffwill]

them womens don't need to know everything....

[@ImBarryScottCSS]

What you don't realise is most women are pretty happy about it and it's kind of a "it keeps him out of trouble (read: other women)" mentality.

[@rover213]

4:30 AM damn thats way to early

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Yeah, that's true!

[@wernwerks819]

I have a feeling that in the end, even with the initial cost being higher, the long term cost/time is lower using the new parts vs. sourcing exclusively used engines and components to get the car together

[@griftereck]

Enzo Ferrari always wore sunglasses. Did he ever put an LS engine in one of his cars?

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Haha! Fair point.

[@airgliderz]

He should have, makes a Ferrari a better more reliable cheaper to be a fix car.

[@olddogg60]

What a great series! I don't consider you a craftsman but more of an artist. Amazing work!

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you for saying that, I'm glad you enjoyed the videos and end result!

[@AdamBath]

My wife asked me how much my V8 E30 has cost so far... I told her I stopped counting, don't ask. Somehow, that was good enough for her :)

[@perrychamp3816]

I have a 1955 Ford Thunderbird I started restoring and keeping accurate records on. At one point I didn't want to know, I just wanted to restore the car and enjoy it. I didn't want to be reminded how much money had gone into the car. Perhaps for insurance reasons I should have kept the records, but thankfully Hagerty Insurance has agreed value.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Wow Adam, you pulled some kinda Jedi mind trick there. 😀

[@johnspecht72]

Tom your efforts paid off in the form of a professional series! Your attention to detail and execution are impressive. Your levity ads a nice touch as well.

[@c0c0asauce]

Sitting in my $300 Miata my eyes are now bigger than my headlights....

[@fleeroybrown]

I remember waiting every other friday for Project Thunderbolt videos to come out, I was in the middle of my own miata project. Man, it seems like it was so long ago. Good times! Always my favorite channel to watch

[@briangreen6602]

More Thunderbolt is most welcome !

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thanks Brian! Glad you enjoy the videos!

[@Mr572u]

I sat down this morning and watched the whole thing. It's 2:30 pm! I couldn't not watch this!

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you for checking out the series, glad you enjoyed it 👍🏻👍🏻

[@muhammadfatihazhar8470]

Tom why you not turbo ls miata

[@tiborklein5349]

There's no room left in the engine bay. And it's already ridiculously fast.

[@muhammadfatihazhar8470]

What about rear mount turbo

[@tiborklein5349]

@@muhammadfatihazhar8470 www.carthrottle.com/post/the-advantages-and-disadvantages-of-rear-mounted-turbos/

[@Sennaxm71]

Because they bend con rods, we did it, although with new forged rods, it's now super fast again :)

[@muhammadfatihazhar8470]

Should Tom get ls stroker kit

[@christopherrto]

This has been a fantastic series. I don't think a whole lot of channels can claim 100x or more the likes as dislikes. Your editing, on screen presence, and overall style is very professional, fun, and enjoyable. Congratulations not only on an awesome build, but on such a high-quality video product.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you for the very kind words Christopher, I'm glad you enjoyed the build and the end result! 👍🏻

[@canabox7112]

Less than I thought

[@Everythingisgoingtobealright]

Cana box Hell yeah brother!

[@RODZILLA65]

Thanks for the cost out video. I would easily add another $15k if not more, for you labor. Thunderbolt is so well put together, and looks like it should have came this way from Mazda. Awesome build.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you for the kind words Rodney, glad you enjoyed the build!

[@notetoselves]

$38,410 after sold parts.

[@Gawain7826]

The best ever one man youtube channel! Tom does such high quality work it's unbelievable.

[@davewhitegt]

Cool project, but for that money I’m buying a C6 Z06. Great channel though.

[@dilsher12]

C6 Z06 Z07 package = track monster.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you David, I totally understand that sentiment. Even a base C6 is a ton of car for the money,

[@mattbarrett41]

Thank you for the honesty of this video. It’s an accurate representation of the cost, and time needed to do a project like this. I love the car, but like any real custom car, I wouldn’t own it because I couldn’t sell it or insure it for what it’s worth. I’m glad you could get the sponsorship to help with it.

[@Phil8719]

Fantastic series, I just finished watching all of it. What you've built here is the perfect driver's car, and I hope you enjoy driving it for many years to come.

[@TomsTurboGarage]

Thank you for the kind words and well wishes sir! Glad you enjoyed the videos.

[@FabioKastro]

Had to watch the whole series before watching this one. There goes my afternoon. Thanks ALOT!

[@livingstonbarrie]

When I first saw this build I was asking why did he pull the dash to replace the motor? Then I got to the end and then I New why he did what he did. He did not cut corners at all. This is a body off frame restoration. Very good work.

[@thevuntzer]

Just watched every Thunderbolt video one after another. Great series.

[@snafuops8682]

Just binge watched your build series. Always wanted to do the same thing with a Miata. Superb build, and attention to details! Great job! Dispite my background in automotive repair and service, having seen what needed to be done, convinced me to buy a turnkey. Lol, thanks for sharing your build with us!

[@TomsTurboGarage]

You’re welcome sir, thank you for the kind words and I’m glad you enjoyed the series