A rotary engine is an engine with a unique structure that uses the rotational motion of a triangular rotor to generate power. The first Mazda equipped with a rotary engine was the Mazda Cosmo Sport (Mazda 110S) launched in 1967. Since then, Mazda has continued to refine the capabilities of its rotary engines, making improvements in output, fuel economy and durability, and maintaining its position as the only global automaker to mass-produce rotary engines for many years.
Mazda resumed production after 11 years after discontinuing the Mazda RX-8 in 2012. In June this year, Mazda’s 12th rotary engine car: MX-30 e-SKYACTIV R-EV began mass production in June 2023. Sales will begin in November 2023.
Mazda Director and Senior Managing Executive Officer Takeshi Mukai issued the following statement regarding total production reaching 2 million vehicles.
“The rotary engine is a special part of Mazda’s history and represents our ‘never-ending spirit of challenge.’ The rotary engine is loved by customers around the world, and we are excited to resume production and see it make a comeback. I would like to take this opportunity A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported us on this journey, especially the many customers who have purchased rotary engine vehicles, our rotary engine fans and all business partners involved in development and production. Going forward, we will continue to carry this legacy forward “The spirit of non-stop challenge” to provide attractive vehicles that provide our customers with an exciting driving experience even in the era of electrification.”
Mazda will continue to put people first as its core value, pursue the joy of driving, and deliver the joy of life by creating touching experiences in customers’ daily lives.
Extended reading: Rotary engine opens a new chapter! Mazda officially launches MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV
Mazda rotary engine schedule
Technical cooperation with Novosibirsk State University (NSU) and Wankel in July 1961
In May 1967, the rotary engine was announced to be completed and Mazda Cosmo Sport (Mazda 110S) was launched.
Mazda Familia Rotary coupe (Mazda R100 coupe) launched in July 1968
Mazda Luce Rotary coupe (Mazda R130 coupe) launched in October 1969
May 1970 Mazda Capella Rotary series (Mazda RX-2) launched
Mazda Savanna (Mazda RX-3) launched in September 1971
The second generation Mazda Luce Rotary series (Mazda RX-4) was launched in November 1972.
Total production of rotary engine vehicles reached 500,000 units in June 1973
The second generation Mazda Capella (Mazda RX-2) was launched in February 1974.
In April 1974, Mazda Rotary Pickup (REPU) was launched in North America.
Mazda Parkway Rotary 26 launched in July 1974
Mazda Roadpacer AP launched in April 1975
The second generation Mazda Cosmo AP (Mazda RX-5) was launched in October 1975.
The third generation Mazda Luce (Mazda 929L) was launched in October 1977
The first generation Mazda Savanna RX-7 was launched in March 1978.
Total production of rotary engine vehicles reached 1 million units in November 1978
In November 1981, the third generation Mazda Cosmo and the fourth generation Luce Roround series (Mazda 929) were launched.
The second generation Mazda Savanna RX-7 was launched in October 1985.
Total rotary engine vehicle production reached 1.5 million units in April 1986
The fifth generation Mazda Luce (Mazda 929) was launched in September 1986.
The fourth-generation Mazda Cosmo (Eunos Cosmo) was launched in April 1990, equipped with a three-rotor engine.
In June 1991, Mazda 787B won the 59th Le Mans 24 Hours Endurance Race.
The third generation Mazda RX-7 (ɛfini RX-7) was launched in December 1991
In April 2002, the last Mazda RX-7 limited edition model, the Spirit R series, was launched.
Mazda RX-8 launched in April 2003
The last Mazda RX-8 special edition model, the Spirit R, was launched in November 2011
Mazda RX-8 discontinued in June 2012
Mazda MX-30 e-SKYACTIV R-EV to be put into production in June 2023
Total rotary engine vehicle production will reach 2 million units in October 2023
