Classic Car Wiki

Introduction to Mazda

Mazda Motor Corporation is a Japanese automotive manufacturer globally renowned for its engineering innovation, particularly in rotary engine technology, and its commitment to building vehicles that deliver an engaging driving experience. From its humble beginnings as a cork manufacturer to becoming one of Japan’s most respected car brands, Mazda has carved out a distinctive identity in the automotive world.

Founding and Early Years (1920–1940)

Mazda was founded on January 30, 1920, in Hiroshima, Japan, as the Toyo Cork Kogyo Co., Ltd. The company initially produced cork products. In 1927, it changed its name to Toyo Kogyo Co., Ltd., and shifted toward industrial manufacturing, eventually entering the vehicle industry.

First Vehicle: Mazda-Go

In 1931, Toyo Kogyo launched the “Mazda-Go,” a three-wheeled open truck powered by a motorcycle engine. It was the company’s first foray into motor vehicles and bore the name “Mazda,” derived from Ahura Mazda, the god of wisdom, intelligence, and harmony in early Asian cultures. The name also echoed the name of company founder Jujiro Matsuda.

World War II and Post-War Recovery

During World War II, Mazda, like many Japanese manufacturers, produced weapons and military equipment. After the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in 1945, Mazda played a crucial role in rebuilding the local economy. In the late 1940s and 1950s, Mazda resumed vehicle production, focusing on three-wheeled trucks and small commercial vehicles.

Entering the Passenger Car Market (1960s)

Mazda made its passenger car debut in 1960 with the R360 Coupe, a compact two-door microcar aimed at Japan’s burgeoning kei car market. This was followed by the larger Mazda Carol in 1962, which cemented the company’s ability to manufacture reliable and affordable vehicles.

Adoption of Rotary Engine Technology

A major turning point came in 1961 when Mazda acquired a license to use the Wankel rotary engine developed by NSU in Germany. Mazda engineers, led by Kenichi Yamamoto, began extensive development to make the engine viable for mass production. This technology would become central to Mazda’s identity.

Rotary Engine Era and Global Expansion (1967–1980s)

In 1967, Mazda launched the Cosmo Sport (110S), the world’s first twin-rotor rotary-powered production car. It was a futuristic, stylish coupe that attracted global attention and established Mazda as a serious technological innovator.

Rotary-Powered Lineup

Throughout the 1970s, Mazda produced a variety of rotary-powered models, including the RX-2, RX-3, RX-4, and the RX-7, the latter becoming an icon in sports car history. These vehicles offered lightweight performance and smooth high-revving engines, appealing to driving enthusiasts worldwide.

Entry into the U.S. Market

Mazda entered the American market in 1970, quickly gaining popularity for its unique rotary-powered offerings. The RX series became especially successful in North America. Mazda established its U.S. headquarters in California, further expanding its global footprint.

Fuel Crisis and Strategic Shift

The oil crisis of the 1970s created challenges for rotary engines due to their relatively poor fuel efficiency. Mazda responded by refocusing on piston engine technology while continuing to refine its rotary engines for performance models.

Mazda Familia and GLC

Mazda expanded its conventional piston-engine lineup with practical models like the Familia (known as the GLC in North America), which provided economical and reliable transportation during an era of rising fuel prices.

1980s Innovation and the Miata Revolution

The 1980s marked a decade of growth and innovation. Mazda diversified its offerings with the launch of the Capella (626), Luce (929), and the B-series pickup trucks. However, the most iconic launch came at the end of the decade.

Mazda MX-5 Miata (1989)

In 1989, Mazda launched the MX-5 Miata, a lightweight two-seater convertible inspired by classic British roadsters. Combining affordability, reliability, and pure driving joy, the Miata became the world’s best-selling roadster and remains a core part of Mazda’s brand identity today.

Peak Rotary Performance and Motorsports (1990s)

The 1990s saw Mazda at the peak of its rotary achievements. The third-generation RX-7, launched in 1992, featured a twin-turbocharged rotary engine and was praised for its agility and performance.

Le Mans Victory (1991)

Mazda achieved a historic milestone in 1991 by becoming the first—and to date, only—Japanese manufacturer to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans overall. The winning car, the Mazda 787B, was powered by a four-rotor rotary engine and is still revered in motorsport history.

Financial Struggles and Ford Partnership

Despite engineering success, Mazda struggled financially during the 1990s economic downturn. To stay afloat, the company deepened its partnership with the Ford Motor Company, which began in the 1970s. Ford eventually acquired a controlling interest (33.4%) and influenced Mazda’s product planning and platform sharing.

Platform Sharing and Global Models

Under Ford’s guidance, Mazda co-developed vehicles such as the Mazda Tribute (a sibling of the Ford Escape), the Ford Probe (based on the Mazda MX-6), and shared platforms for midsize sedans and trucks. While this strategy improved efficiency, some critics felt it diluted Mazda’s distinctiveness.

Return to Independence and “Zoom-Zoom” Philosophy (2000s)

Mazda began to reassert its independence in the early 2000s, launching a new generation of stylish, driver-focused vehicles under the “Zoom-Zoom” global brand campaign. Models like the Mazda3, Mazda6, and RX-8 reflected the company’s renewed focus on performance and design.

RX-8 and Rotary Evolution

The RX-8, launched in 2003, was the last mass-produced rotary-powered car. Featuring suicide-style rear doors and a 1.3L Renesis rotary engine, it won praise for its innovation and handling, though it faced reliability issues over time.

SKYACTIV and Sustainable Innovation (2010s)

With the end of Ford’s controlling interest (reduced to zero by 2015), Mazda fully regained independence and embarked on a bold new engineering path. The “SKYACTIV” technology suite aimed to dramatically improve fuel efficiency, emissions, and performance without compromising the driving experience.

SKYACTIV Engines and Lightweight Design

Mazda’s SKYACTIV engines, transmissions, and chassis systems gained global recognition for combining efficiency with engaging performance. The Mazda3 and Mazda6 led the charge, offering class-leading fuel economy and sharp handling.

KODO Design Philosophy

Introduced in the 2010s, Mazda’s “KODO – Soul of Motion” design language emphasized dynamic, elegant styling with sculpted bodywork and a focus on harmony between car and driver. KODO design helped distinguish Mazda in a crowded global marketplace.

Modern Era and Electrification (2020s)

As the automotive industry moves toward electrification, Mazda has committed to developing hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric vehicles. The Mazda MX-30, released in 2020, is the company’s first mass-market EV, with more electrified models planned under the “Sustainable Zoom-Zoom 2030” vision.

Premium Shift

In recent years, Mazda has begun positioning itself as a premium brand, offering upscale interiors, refined driving dynamics, and technology features on par with luxury marques. This is evident in newer models such as the CX-50, CX-60, and the upcoming CX-90.

Legacy and Enthusiast Culture

Mazda enjoys a devoted global following among enthusiasts who admire its commitment to innovation, lightweight engineering, and driving fun. The Miata remains the quintessential example of accessible sports car joy, while rotary-powered RX models continue to be treasured by collectors.

Conclusion

Mazda’s journey from a cork factory in Hiroshima to a globally admired automotive brand is a testament to resilience, creativity, and engineering passion. Whether through its rotary engine legacy, its sports car prowess, or its pursuit of efficient innovation, Mazda has consistently defied expectations. As the company looks to the future with electrification and continued focus on driving pleasure, its spirit of “Zoom-Zoom” lives on.