This book tells the story of how one small Japanese automaker kept its independence and found fame, saved by a unique engine invented on the other side of the world. Beset by technical problems, no one else had managed to turn the rotary concept into a commercial reality. The rotary engine became the only commercially successful piston alternative, and it was Mazda that made it work. Here is the complete history of Mazda's rotary engine-powered vehicles, from the Cosmo 110S to RX-8. Detailing the challenges, sporting triumphs and critical reactions to a new wave of sports sedans, wagons, sports cars . and trucks; the development history of Mazda's rotary power plant, and the model timelines of the vehicles these engines powered, the book also explains how the rotary engine became a high performance icon and V8 alternative, and chars the racetrack achievements of Mazda rotary racers around the world. Contains over 220 colour photos, plus technical drawings and contemporary advertisements, as well as comprehensive technical information, including details about the pollution control and fuel economy challenges facing Mazda, as it strove to keep rotary engines in production to satisfy high performance fans globally. This book is a must for all rotary-engine fans.

Book jacket.