Mitsuoka LA1 Revealed: Corvette Styling on MX-5 Base

Mitsuoka has published renderings of the LA1, a coachbuilt roadster that mimics the 1950s C1 Chevrolet Corvette while riding on the Mazda ND-generation MX-5 Miata platform. The company released images ahead of a full presentation scheduled for November 26, 2026.

Corvette-inspired coachbuilt body

The LA1 applies Mitsuoka's signature retro reinterpretation to a modern roadster chassis, producing a classic C1 Corvette silhouette adapted to a two-seat roadster layout. Japanese designer Takaori Aoki, who styled Mitsuoka's 2018 Rock Star conversion, is credited with the LA1 design.

• Quad-headlight arrangement above a chrome bumper
• Front splitter and vented hood
• Extended front and rear overhangs and custom rear fenders for a wider stance
• Elongated taillights set into the rear quarter panels and a custom trunk lid
• Split rear bumper with space for the licence plate

Underpinnings and likely mechanicals

Mitsuoka confirms the LA1 is built on the ND Mazda MX-5 platform and retains the Miata's rear-wheel-drive architecture. The car keeps the MX-5's A-pillars and convertible soft-top; Mitsuoka indicates the dashboard layout, including the infotainment display and instrument cluster, is expected to be carried over.

The company has not disclosed official powertrain specifications. Because Mitsuoka's conversions typically do not alter the donor car's engines, the LA1 is likely to use the ND Miata's available units: a 1.5-liter producing 130 horsepower (132 metric horsepower) or a 2.0-liter producing 181 horsepower (184 metric horsepower). The ND MX-5 can be specified with a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic, with drive sent to the rear wheels.

Timing, availability and pricing history

For now Mitsuoka has released only a photo gallery. The manufacturer plans a full public presentation on November 26, 2026, with order books opening November 27, 2026. Mitsuoka has not released pricing or production-volume details for the LA1.

As a point of reference, Mitsuoka sold the 2018 Rock Star conversion on the MX-5 with a manual transmission at a starting price of 4,688,200 Japanese yen. A Rock Star fitted with the S Special Package and an automatic transmission was priced at 5,183,600 Japanese yen.