The remarkable history of Mazda spans a period from machine tools to the "Zoom-Zoom" advertising campaign and beyond. Mazda is a Japanese automaker that has captured the imaginations of driving enthusiasts around the world with its stylish, innovative, and fun-to-drive vehicles. But Mazda's history stretches back even further than its modern "zoom-zoom" image. Let's take a look at the fascinating story of how Mazda grew from its humble beginnings into a major global car brand.
The Early Days of Mazda
Mazda's roots go back to 1920, when the Toyo Cork Kogyo Co., Ltd was founded in Hiroshima, Japan. The company originally produced machine tools, but in 1931 it introduced the famous Mazda-Go autorickshaw, a three-wheeled motorcycle taxi. That represented Toyo Kogyo's first foray into the automotive industry.
In the 1960s, Mazda began exporting its vehicles to the massive North American automotive market. The first Mazda car sold in the United States was the R360 coupe. Batavia, OH, an inviting city in Clermont County, Ohio, was one of the first American communities to welcome these innovative Japanese vehicles.
Wankel Rotary Engines and the RX-7
Mazda made history in 1967 when it introduced the Cosmo Sport 110S, the world's first production car powered by a rotary engine. Mazda would become known as a leader in this unique engine technology. Mazda lovers in Florence, OH were enthusiastic fans of Mazda's rotary-powered sports cars.
Perhaps the most iconic Mazda rotary car was the RX-7, introduced in 1978. The RX-7 was a sleek, lightweight sports car that won acclaim for its exceptional handling and performance. Over three generations, the RX-7 remained a favorite of driving enthusiasts and a symbol of Mazda's engineering capability. Collectors in Milford, OH still seek out pristine examples of the RX-7 today.
Navigating Transitions and Challenges
Like most automakers, Mazda has weathered some difficult times in its history. The 1970s oil crisis hit the company hard, and it formed a partnership with Ford to stay afloat. This alliance brought Mazda increased international exposure and helped it establish a stronger foothold in the American market. Car buyers in Georgetown, OH responded positively to the wider range of Mazda vehicles that emerged from the Ford partnership.
The 1990s were a challenging decade for the Japanese economy, but Mazda persevered. It continued to innovate with new technologies like Miller Cycle engines to deliver improved efficiency. Mazda also expanded its manufacturing presence in the United States, opening a plant in Flat Rock, MI. Drivers in Cincinnati, OH appreciated the opportunity to buy American-made Mazdas.
The Modern Mazda Lineup
In recent years, Mazda has undergone a product renaissance, introducing stylish and critically acclaimed models like the Mazda3 and CX-5. With the launch of its SKYACTIV™ technologies in 2011, Mazda ushered in a new era of fuel-efficient, low-emission vehicles that don't sacrifice performance. Motorists in Hillsboro, OH have been impressed by the combination of quality and value offered by the latest Mazda cars and crossovers.
Today's Mazda lineup has something for everyone, from the iconic MX-5 Miata roadster to the family-friendly CX-9 three-row crossover. While Mazda's latest vehicles come with cutting-edge technology and attractive design, they remain true to the brand's core values of driving enjoyment and quality craftsmanship.
Experience Mazda History at Jeff Wyler Mazda
If you'd like to experience a piece of Mazda's rich history for yourself, we invite you to visit Jeff Wyler Mazda in Batavia, OH. Our knowledgeable sales staff would be happy to guide you through Mazda's current lineup and set you up with a test drive in the Mazda of your choice. At our dealership, you'll discover how Mazda's remarkable past has paved the way for an exciting future. Stop by our showroom in Batavia, OH today and become part of the continuing story of Mazda innovation.
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