Mazda 787B
“The engine was absolutely fantastic, silky smooth and totally reliable”
RACING HERITAGE - STREET LEGEND
FROM TRACK TO STREET
787B: Le Mans Legend
In 1991, the Mazda 787B became the first—and only—rotary-powered car to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Its four-rotor R26B delivered relentless pace with remarkable reliability and fuel efficiency, screaming to over 9,000 rpm while sipping fuel compared to rivals. The victory etched Mazda into endurance racing lore and ignited a culture around the rotary’s otherworldly sound and tuning potential.
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Why it was a beast
- Lightweight R26B (~700 hp) with explosive throttle response.
- Exceptional reliability and fuel strategy over 24 hours.
- Advanced aero and brakes for the era, rock-solid pace at night.
Culture impact
The 787B’s victory amplified rotary mystique—its piercing exhaust note became an icon. From the RX-7’s dominance in the tuner scene to Mazda’s reputation for daring engineering, the rotary spirit shaped street culture and inspired generations of enthusiasts.
Mazda's racing DNA flows from the legendary 787B's Le Mans victory straight to the streets. The rotary engine's unique sound and performance characteristics made Mazda cars legendary in street racing culture. From the RX-7's dominance in underground circuits to the MX-5's precision handling, Mazda vehicles carry the spirit of champions - both on the track and in the urban racing scene.