The history of Mazda Motor Corporation, though rooted in the 1920s, didn’t witness the mass production of passenger cars until the 1960s. However, once Mazda ventured into this arena, it quickly made its mark with innovative designs and groundbreaking technology. One such example is the Mazda Cosmo, a pioneering vehicle that showcased Mazda’s commitment to engineering excellence and innovation.
In 1960, Mazda made a significant leap by securing the rights to manufacture rotary engines designed by NSU’s Wankel. This move laid the foundation for Mazda’s foray into the world of rotary-powered vehicles, setting the stage for the development of the Cosmo.
The Mazda Cosmo made its debut in 1966 as Mazda’s inaugural rotary-powered vehicle. With its sleek and elegant two-seater coupe design, the Cosmo immediately captured the imagination of automotive enthusiasts around the world. At its heart was a twin-rotor engine with a displacement of 982cc, delivering an impressive output of 110 horsepower. This powerplant propelled the Cosmo to a top speed of 185km/h (110mph), showcasing the performance potential of rotary engines.
The engineering prowess of the Mazda Cosmo extended beyond its powertrain. The front suspension featured ‘A’ arms and coil springs, providing a balanced and responsive driving experience. At the rear, a leaf-sprung De Dion axle, held in place by trailing arms, ensured stability and control, even at high speeds. The Cosmo was equipped with disc brakes in the front and drum brakes in the rear, delivering reliable stopping power.
In July 1968, Mazda introduced the Cosmo Sport Series 2 Coupe, further refining and enhancing the original design. The Series 2 boasted a more potent engine, generating 128 horsepower, and a top speed of 193km/h. Additionally, Mazda extended the wheelbase of the Series 2, enhancing stability and ride comfort.
Despite its technological advancements and performance capabilities, the Mazda Cosmo remained a limited-edition masterpiece. Production of the Series 1 Cosmo was limited to just 343 units, highlighting its exclusivity and rarity. The subsequent Series 2 model saw a slightly higher production run, with 1,176 units built. However, both variants of the Cosmo are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike, representing a pivotal moment in Japanese automotive history.
In the realm of collectible Japanese automobiles, the Mazda Cosmo holds a special place alongside iconic models like the Toyota 2000 GT and the Nissan Skyline GT-R. Its groundbreaking rotary engine technology, coupled with its elegant design and impressive performance, solidify its status as an automotive legend.
