Suspension, Drivetrain & Brakes

Get the power down. Stop harder. Turn sharper.

Upgrading power means nothing if it doesn’t reach the ground, stop in time, or hold a line. Here’s how to approach suspension, drivetrain, and braking for the MX-5 NC and similar platforms.

1) Differentials

Fuji / Tochigi Fuji LSD (OEM NC)

  • Good baseline LSD, clutch-type design.
  • Prone to wear — can be rebuilt with stronger springs & plates.
  • Great for street/track mix up to ~300 hp.

Aftermarket options

  • Kaaz, Cusco, OS Giken for aggressive track or drift use.
  • Torsen/Quaife ATB = smooth, maintenance-free, but less lock under wheel lift.
Tip: Match diff setup to tire choice and use case — street tires need less lock than slicks.

2) Clutch & flywheel

Street / Stage 1

  • OEM or mild upgrade handles NA + mild cams (~220 hp).
  • Lightened flywheel (4–5 kg) improves throttle response.

Turbo / Stage 2+

  • Organic/segmented clutch disc, stronger pressure plate.
  • For 300–400 hp turbo: twin-disc or heavy-duty single-plate.
  • Consider uprated slave cylinder & braided line for feel.

Rule: Size clutch for torque, not hp. Overbuild slightly to avoid early wear.

3) Brake upgrades

Stage 1 — Fast road

  • Quality pads (Ferodo DS2500, EBC Yellowstuff).
  • Braided lines + fresh DOT 4 fluid.
  • Slotted discs optional, OEM size fine.

Stage 2 — Track days

  • High-temp pads (DS3000/CL RC6).
  • 2-piece discs (lighter, cooler).
  • High-temp DOT 4 or DOT 5.1 fluid.
Pro tip: Tire grip dictates brake needs. Don’t overspend on big brakes if tires can’t use them.

4) Suspension setup

Street comfort

  • Quality coilovers (Ohlins, KW V3, Tein Flex-Z).
  • Mild drop (~25–30 mm) for stance & roll control.
  • Alignment: -1° to -1.5° camber front, -1.5° rear.

Track / Time Attack

  • Stiffer coilovers with digressive valving.
  • Adjustable arms for camber/caster control.
  • Alignment: -2.5°+ front camber, -2°+ rear, slight toe-out front.

Corner-weighting makes the biggest difference once spring rates go up. Balance > brand.

5) Common issues

Wheel hop under boost

  • Worn bushings → upgrade to poly or spherical in rear arms.
  • Diff mounts too soft → insert or stiffer mounts.

Brake fade

  • Fluid boiling → flush with DOT 4/5.1 high-temp.
  • Pads overheated → upgrade compound.

Uneven tire wear

  • Excessive toe or camber imbalance.
  • Check alignment + bushings before blaming tires.

6) FAQ

Is the stock NC diff strong?

Yes, up to ~300 hp with good condition plates. For more torque or track abuse, rebuild or upgrade LSD.

What’s the best clutch for street turbo NC?

A heavy-duty organic single plate balances drivability and torque rating. Twin-disc is track-only comfort-wise.

Do I need big brakes?

Not always. Good pads + fluid + braided lines transform OEM brakes. Big brake kits shine with slicks and heavy track use.

Unsure what chassis mods you need? Tell us your power goals and use case — we’ll spec a drivetrain & suspension combo that works.
Ask Yiannis