Retro-inspired cars have become one of Mitsuoka’s trademarks, and the Japanese coachbuilder appears ready to unveil another nostalgic creation. Based on teaser images shared by Mitsuoka on X, the company’s latest project transforms what appears to be a Mazda MX-5 Miata into a roadster heavily inspired by the first-generation Chevrolet Corvette.
Although Mitsuoka has not officially confirmed the donor car or revealed the model’s name, the proportions leave little doubt that Mazda’s lightweight sports car is hiding underneath the custom bodywork. The transformation looks set to trade the Miata’s modern styling for unmistakable 1950s American design cues.
The latest teaser focuses on the rear three-quarter view, revealing a dramatic two-tone paint scheme, upright taillights, and sculpted bodywork that closely echoes the iconic C1 Corvette. Earlier preview images also hinted at a classic front end featuring round headlights and a prominent grille.
Mitsuoka plans to continue teasing the car before its full debut later this year. If the finished product matches the preview images, it could become one of the company’s most distinctive Miata-based creations yet.
Classic Corvette Inspiration Is Impossible To Miss
新型車の第3弾ティザー画像を公開 #ミツオカ pic.twitter.com/uZafxSI2if
— 光岡自動車 (@mitsuokamotorjp) August 6, 2026
The strongest design influence comes from Chevrolet’s original Corvette, produced between 1953 and 1962. Mitsuoka has not copied a single model year, instead borrowing styling elements from across the C1’s production run.
A contrasting white side cove stretches along the body, recalling the signature treatment introduced on later C1 Corvettes. Combined with the deep red paint, the color combination immediately evokes 1950s American sports cars.
The rear styling follows a similar philosophy. The upright taillights resemble early Corvettes in their placement, while their chrome surrounds appear to reference later versions of the C1, creating a blend of classic Corvette details rather than an exact replica.
The bumper also features two vertical openings that appear designed to accommodate integrated exhaust outlets. That detail further reinforces the connection to Chevrolet’s pioneering sports car.
The Miata Foundation Appears To Remain
Mitsuoka has yet to confirm what sits beneath the redesigned body, but several details strongly suggest the current ND-generation Mazda MX-5 Miata. The windshield frame, rollover hoops, and door openings all closely resemble Mazda’s compact roadster.
That approach would be entirely consistent with Mitsuoka’s history. Rather than engineering completely new vehicles, the company typically takes existing production models and gives them dramatically different exterior styling.
The strategy has already produced several memorable creations. The Buddy reimagines the Toyota RAV4 with styling inspired by classic American SUVs, while the Viewt transforms the Toyota Yaris into something resembling a vintage Jaguar Mk2.
Mitsuoka has also worked with the Miata before. Its Rock Star borrowed the Mazda’s platform while drawing inspiration from the second-generation Corvette, making this latest project feel like a natural evolution that simply turns the clock back another decade.
Familiar Performance Could Continue
If the car is indeed based on the current MX-5 Miata, buyers can likely expect the familiar naturally aspirated four-cylinder engines already offered with Mazda’s roadster. Depending on the market, that could mean either a 1.5-liter or 2.0-liter engine paired with a six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
Performance has never been the primary goal of Mitsuoka’s projects. The appeal instead comes from combining proven modern mechanicals with styling that stands apart from virtually everything else on today’s roads.
Retaining the Miata platform would also preserve the lightweight handling and balanced driving characteristics that have made Mazda’s roadster a favorite among enthusiasts for decades.
Full Reveal Is Still A Few Months Away
Mitsuoka says another teaser will arrive in September before the finished car makes its official debut in November. The company has not yet released interior images or announced technical specifications, pricing, or production plans.
Whether it ultimately carries Miata underpinnings or surprises everyone with something else, the styling already suggests another unmistakably Mitsuoka creation. It blends Japanese craftsmanship with classic American design in a way few manufacturers would even consider attempting.
Would you rather own this retro-inspired Miata or a standard Mazda MX-5? Do you think Mitsuoka successfully captured the spirit of the C1 Corvette? Let us know in the comments.