Description
The Mazda RX-4 Luce Sedan was one of the defining rotary-powered grand-touring sedans of the 1970s, combining the smooth performance of Mazda’s twin-rotor engine with a larger, more luxurious body than earlier rotary models such as the RX-2 and RX-3. Introduced in 1972 as part of the second-generation Luce lineup, the RX-4 was designed to move Mazda upmarket, offering a refined rotary alternative to six-cylinder rivals from Japan, Europe and the United States. With its distinctive styling, smooth rotary power and comfortable ride quality, the RX-4 Luce Sedan quickly became a flagship model for Mazda’s growing rotary portfolio.
Power came from Mazda’s 12A twin-rotor engine in early models, later supplemented by the larger 13B in some markets. The 12A typically produced around 120 horsepower in period trim — impressive for the time, especially given the engine’s compact size and smooth, vibration-free character. The rotary delivered a linear, turbine-like surge of power and was capable of high revs without mechanical harshness, giving the RX-4 a refined, effortless performance feel. A four-speed manual gearbox was standard, with a three-speed automatic offered to emphasise the car’s luxury orientation. The automatic version in particular highlighted the rotary’s smoothness, making the RX-4 one of the most refined Japanese sedans of the era.
The chassis was engineered for comfort and stability, reflecting the RX-4’s grand-touring role. Independent front suspension with MacPherson struts and a well-located rear axle created predictable, relaxed handling rather than sportiness. The rotary engine’s light weight contributed to balanced steering and good front-end response, while the longer wheelbase of the Luce Sedan provided a calm, settled ride at speed. Mazda tuned the RX-4 for confident long-distance cruising, and it felt composed on motorways in a way earlier rotary sedans had not. Front disc brakes were standard on most versions, helping the car manage its higher performance.
Styling was one of the RX-4 Luce Sedan’s strongest attributes. Mazda gave it a bold and distinctive design, marked by a long bonnet, broad stance and crisp body lines that blended Japanese modernism with subtle American influences. The frontal treatment featured a deep grille, quad round headlamps and a strong horizontal theme that projected presence and maturity. The body sides were clean and taut, and the overall look was more substantial and upscale than the smaller RX-2 and RX-3 models. The Luce Sedan conveyed an air of refinement, helping position Mazda as a brand capable of producing stylish, internationally competitive cars.
Inside, the RX-4 Luce Sedan offered a comfortable and well-finished cabin. The dashboard design emphasised clarity, with large instruments and well-placed controls. Many versions featured a wood-tone centre panel, high-quality fabrics and additional chrome or brightwork to reinforce the premium character. The seats were wide and well padded, ideal for long-distance travel, and the extended wheelbase translated into generous rear legroom. Overall cabin refinement was a step above earlier rotary models, making the RX-4 feel genuinely luxurious for its class and era.
On the road the RX-4 Luce Sedan delivered a smooth, composed and quietly powerful driving experience. The rotary engine provided effortless acceleration free from vibration, while the chassis prioritised comfort and stability. The car was not aimed at enthusiastic cornering — Mazda reserved that role for the RX-3 and, later, the RX-7 — but instead excelled at long-distance cruising, where its refinement came to the forefront. Its quietness, supple ride and relaxed nature made it one of the most comfortable rotary-powered cars Mazda would build during the 1970s.
The RX-4 Luce Sedan played an important role in Mazda’s rotary strategy. It helped broaden the appeal of the rotary beyond small coupés and compact sedans, demonstrating that the Wankel engine could be smooth, luxurious and suitable for larger, more sophisticated cars. The model served as a precursor to Mazda’s later luxury rotaries, including the 929-based Luce models and the 1980s Cosmo.
Today the Mazda RX-4 Luce Sedan is highly prized among rotary enthusiasts and collectors of early Japanese classics. It is admired for its distinctive styling, smooth rotary performance and its importance as one of Mazda’s most refined early rotary sedans. Surviving examples are increasingly rare, and the RX-4 Luce stands as a key chapter in Mazda’s history — a stylish, comfortable and technically advanced sedan that helped define the company’s rotary identity during the 1970s.