Mazda
The Rebel of Japan: Rotary Engines, Race Wins, and the Soul of Motion
Introduction
Mazda’s story is one of defiant innovation. While other Japanese automakers followed proven paths, Mazda carved its own with a relentless focus on driving joy and engineering creativity. From becoming the only manufacturer to successfully mass-produce the complex Wankel rotary engine to being the first—and only—Japanese brand to outright win the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Mazda has always dared to be different.
| Detail | Information |
| Founded | 1920 (as Toyo Cork Kogyo Co., Ltd.) |
| HeadQuarters | Hiroshima, Japan |
| First Vehicle | Mazda R360 Coupe (1960) |
| Philosophy | Jinba Ittai ( horse and rider as one ) |
| Key Innovation | Wankel Rotary Engine |
| Legendary Achievement | 1991 24 Hours of Le Mans Overall Winner |
Iconic Mazda Engines
- 13B-REW: 1.3L Twin-Rotor Twin-Turbo Rotary (RX-7 FD). The heart of the iconic FD. Smooth, high-revving, and compact, producing incredible power for its size.
- R26B: 2.6L 4-Rotor Rotary (Mazda 787B). The engine that won Le Mans. A legendary, naturally-aspirated race engine with an unforgettable scream.
- 13B-MSP Renesis: 1.3L Twin-Rotor Naturally Aspirated Rotary (RX-8). A modernized, more efficient rotary designed to meet emissions standards.
- MZR / K-series: 2.3L DISI Turbo I4 (Mazdaspeed3, Mazdaspeed6). A potent, front-wheel-drive wrecking ball of a turbocharged engine.
- SkyActiv-G 2.5T: 2.5L Turbo I4 (Mazda CX and modern models). A modern turbo engine combining efficiency with Mazda’s signature responsive driving feel.
Legendary Mazda Models
- Mazda RX-7 (SA, FC, FD) (1978-2002): The quintessential Japanese rotary sports car. The FD generation is a design and engineering icon.
- Mazda RX-8 (2003-2012): The innovative, four-door, four-seater rotary sports car with freestyle doors.
- Mazda 787B (1991): The only Japanese car to ever win the 24 Hours of Le Mans overall. It won with a rotary engine.
- Mazda MX-5 Miata (NA, NB, NC, ND) (1989-Present): The world’s best-selling two-seater roadster. A masterpiece of lightweight, simple, rear-wheel-drive fun.
- Mazdaspeed3 / Mazdaspeed6 (2000s): Turbocharged, hot hatchback and sedan heroes that offered incredible performance for their time.
- Mazda Cosmo (1967-1996): The first production car with a twin-rotor rotary engine. A luxury GT that launched the rotary era.
- Mazda RX-2/RX-3 (1970s): The rotary-powered coupes and sedans that established Mazda’s performance reputation in its early days.
The Rotary Revolution
Mazda’s commitment to the Wankel rotary engine defined the brand for decades. Despite its challenges with fuel consumption and emissions, the rotary’s smoothness, compact size, and high power output became a symbol of Mazda’s technical ambition. This dedication culminated in the unbelievable 1991 Le Mans victory with the 787B, a triumph that forced a rule change banning rotary engines—a true testament to its dominance.