You may recall Mitsuoka as the oddball Japanese coachbuilder that takes the odd Nissan sedan and turns its front end into something reminiscent of a 1940’s Jaguar Mk. II. Their unique coachwork extends towards other weird models like the Silvia-based Le Seyde and the infamous Orochi midship sports car. For the Miata, Mitsuoka used to offer the Himiko, a conversion that takes the third-gen (NC) roadster towards the aesthetic of a Jaguar XK120. With the current gen MX-5, Mitsuoka have used an entirely different inspiration than what we’re used to – and dare we say it looks good.

Dubbed the ‘Rock Star’ by Mitsuoka, we can clearly see the shape and silhouette of a second generation (C2) Corvette Stingray as the inspiration of this new model. From what we can see with the few catalog photos, it appears Mitsuoka have converted the ND’s entire body with all panels being modified save for the doors and windscreen. The proportions of the Rock Star appear to mimic the bulges and trim of the original C2 Corvette, but that’s not to say Mitsuoka haven’t done any clever thinking to adapt as well. For example, instead of the C2’s flip up lamps, the Rock Star uses small projector lights underneath the front cowl to minimize disruption of the bodyline and overall profile.

Color choices will be limited to six american-inspired shades, namely Los Angeles Blue, Chicago Red, New York Black, Cisco Orange, Washington White, and Arizona Yellow. Specs and technical details appear to be lifted straight out of the Mazda MX-5 sheets, meaning the car is still very much factory stock underneath.

The Rock Star will supposedly be a commemorative model for Mitsuoka’s 50th anniversary, that means only 50 units will be made for now. So, what do you think of Mitsuoka’s latest creation? Have they redeemed themselves for bringing us the Orochi?