Mazda Motorsport Data

Mazda's motorsport legacy is uniquely defined by its unwavering commitment to the rotary engine, a technology it championed against all odds. The pinnacle of this endeavor came in 1991, when the iconic, screaming orange-and-green Mazda 787B, powered by a four-rotor engine, achieved a historic overall victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. This monumental achievement made Mazda the first and, to date, only Japanese manufacturer to win the prestigious event, and the only one to do so with a non-piston engine. Beyond this singular triumph, the brand built a formidable reputation in North American sports car racing, particularly in the IMSA GT Championship, where rotary-powered RX-7s secured numerous class championships and over 100 victories throughout the 1980s. However, Mazda's racing spirit extends far beyond professional circuits. Its influence is perhaps most profoundly felt at the grassroots level, where the Mazda MX-5 Miata has become the best-selling and most-raced roadster in history, dominating club racing grids worldwide. This dual focus on both ultimate technological challenges and accessible, pure driving fun cements Mazda’s identity as a true enthusiast's brand, embodying its 'Never Stop Challenging' spirit.