Mazda is looking into building a 205bhp version of its rear-wheel-drive MX-5 sports car, almost certainly as a reaction to the immediate success of the Toyota GT-86 and Subaru BRZ.

Mazda’s success in GT racing lends itself to a motorsport-inspired version of the ever-popular MX-5, and the company will be gauging customer reaction when it’s presented at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Built by racing experts Jota Sport, the concept car’s 205bhp comes from a naturally-aspirated 2.0-litre engine, while power is delivered to the wheels through the same slick six-speed gearbox as in the standard MX-5.

A sports exhaust looks and sounds the part, with two central tailpipes and a raspier engine note. Recaro seats give comfort and support, while the interior is splashed liberally with carbon fibre to lower weight.

It’s also track-ready, with road-legal semi-slick tyres fitted to its alloy wheels, and fully-functional roll-hoops behind the seats.

The road-legal concept will take part in the ‘First Glance’ category of the famous event’s hillclimb, as well as being on display for the rest of the event. Many enthusiasts might ask why Mazda didn’t build it five years ago, and reaction to the car is likely to be extremely positive.