Wololo gives abandoned Mazda Miata a stunning new lease on life

Content creator Julius Wololo has given a forgotten 1989 Mazda Miata a dramatic new lease on life, transforming the abandoned roadster into a sleek vintage machine that has caught the attention of fans and car enthusiasts online.

Wololo, popularly known as King Julius, unveiled the restored car on social media as part of a project he has dubbed ‘GoldyMiata’. The transformation has seen the once-neglected vehicle emerge with a striking new look, breathing fresh life into a classic that had seemingly been left behind.

The restoration quickly drew praise from his followers, with many impressed by the outcome.

“One of the best Mazda Miata restorations I have seen. Such an amazing outcome to this project,” said Elijah Mwangi Snr.

Another follower, Kevo Maziwa, wrote: “Bazengaaa! Way to go! Excited to see this to the end. This is a good find.”

Kevyn Ynaena also praised the project, writing: “Once in a while, you get to see a man happy as he drives his dope toy towards the horizon.”

For Wololo, however, the project represents more than another eye-catching addition to his social media presence. The car has become another marker of his journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of Kenya’s recognisable digital entertainers.

In 2024, Wololo made headlines after buying his first car, describing the milestone as a reflection of how far he had come in his career. The restoration of the Miata now adds another chapter to that journey.

The Mazda Miata, also known as the NA, was unveiled at the 1989 Chicago Auto Show. It was designed around Mazda’s Jinba-ittai philosophy, which emphasises a sense of unity between the driver and the car.

The lightweight, rear-wheel-drive roadster came with a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine and the now-iconic pop-up headlights. Rather than chasing outright speed, the Miata focused on simplicity, balance and driving enjoyment, helping revive the traditional lightweight roadster concept.

Wololo’s decision to restore an abandoned example has given the classic a fresh lease on life while highlighting the appeal of car restoration.

What was once neglected has now become a head-turner. And if the reaction online is anything to go by, GoldyMiata’s second chapter may prove far more glamorous than its first.