A long history of providing its owners with joyful experiences and driving pleasure. That’s Mazda! This company has crafted numerous vehicles that have become legendary in their own right. Just consider the MX-5. Yet, the company’s origins lie in a completely different narrative—something entirely unexpected, given its subsequent achievements, success, and renown.
Today, Mazda is a global leader in designing and manufacturing high-quality cars and trucks. Their products are found in over 100 countries worldwide. They are committed to innovation and quality, and their products are supported by a strong warranty and excellent customer service.
In this article, we will take a virtual tour to explore the history of one of the world’s best-known automakers, its iconic cars, and other interesting facts about its reliable Japanese engines.
Table of Contents
Overview of Mazda
In 2020, the Japanese company announced the start of production for its first electric car, the MX-30, in the city of Hiroshima. Well, you might be wondering what’s so special about that. Many companies today produce electric cars with advanced technology and luxurious features that rival gasoline-powered vehicles.
While it’s true that the MX-30 boasts a beautiful interior, the truly unique aspect is the use of cork. Sourced from cork trees, this natural material was chosen deliberately and thoughtfully.
This story highlights Mazda’s origins. The connection between the cork and Mazda reveals a significant, often overlooked chapter in the company’s history. Let’s delve into this fascinating tale. To begin, we’ll introduce the brand to those unfamiliar with it.
What is Mazda?
Mazda Motor Corporation is a multi-national automaker headquartered in Fuchu, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. With over 1.5 million vehicles produced worldwide and thousands of manufacturing plants, it has established itself as one of the world’s fifteenth-largest automakers by production volume.
What Does Mazda Mean?
The name Mazda originated with the development of the company’s first three-wheeled truck. The term “Mazda” is derived from Ahura Mazda, the ancient Persian god of harmony, intelligence, and wisdom. Ahura Mazda was a revered symbol in both Eastern and Western cultures.
Mazda’s identity is deeply influenced by its name, reflecting its innovative, spiritual, and dedicated nature. As a beacon of hope, the company believed that the name Mazda would inspire them to create vehicles that would ignite inspiration around the globe.
History of Mazda
Mazda, a global automotive powerhouse, has carved a unique niche in the industry with its innovative designs, exceptional driving dynamics, and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. Rooted in a rich history dating back to the early 20th century, it has evolved from a small tool manufacturer to a major player in the automotive world. In the following lines, we will explore the company’s journey, from its humble beginnings to its present-day status as a leader in sustainable mobility.
1920
The story began on 30 January 1920 with the establishment of Toyo Cork Kogyo Co. Ltd in Hiroshima, Japan, which specialised in manufacturing cork substitutes from native plants. At the time, there was a high demand for these materials as sealing materials. However, within a year, global markets became saturated with natural cork, negatively impacting Toyo’s position and core business value.
1921
A young entrepreneur named Jujiro Matsuda took charge of the company and shifted production to a new concept, “Far-Eastern manufacturing,” to build machinery. This led to the removal of “cork” from the company’s name, resulting in Toyo Kogyo.
1927
About seven years later, the company faced financial difficulties and reached a critical point. To avoid bankruptcy, Toyo Kogyo accepted offers from several business leaders and decided to pivot toward automobile manufacturing.
1931
The new decade marked a significant change for Toyo as they developed their first vehicle, a motorised three-wheeled truck. In 1931, the name Mazda debuted with the release of the Mazda GO series production. The name is derived from both the Persian god and the Japanese pronunciation of its founder, Matsuda.
1936
The company unveiled a new logo, which quickly proved successful. Just four years later, Mazda engineers introduced a prototype for the first passenger car, a four-seat family compact saloon. However, the outbreak of World War II forced them to halt all production, along with the rest of the world, until the global conflict ended.
1945
Despite Japan’s devastation from the war, including the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, the company found a way to rebuild. Their headquarters in Hiroshima, a city reduced to rubble, was transformed into emergency hospitals. This experience marked a turning point, not only for Japan but also for the company’s philosophy.
Inspired by the resilience of Hiroshima’s people, Mazda started from scratch, determined to persevere. The company focused on rebuilding its commercial vehicle production and began exporting three-wheeled trucks worldwide, starting with India.
1958
Japan’s economic miracle fuelled a growing demand for Mazda’s reliable and efficient vehicles. In the late 1950s, they developed a new vehicle programme, introducing over 30 models ranging from small minivans to the Mazda Romper, a classic 1-ton truck.
1960
The company introduced a new design vision, the “pyramid vision,” which led to large-scale production. In the early 1960s, the company integrated a computer system into its production operations, demonstrating its commitment to innovation.
Tsuneji Matsuda, the son of Mazda’s president, developed a plan to expand production into different market segments. In May 1960, the company debuted its first mass-produced car, the City-Coupé R360, a small and innovative vehicle.
During this time, the company faced financial challenges and formed a partnership with Ford Motor Company, which lasted until 2015. This collaboration led to joint projects and a 7% financial stake in Mazda by Ford. One of the most successful alliances in the auto industry, the partnership resulted in vehicles like the B-Series, inspired by the Ford Courier.
1962
Mazda released two small compact saloon vehicles, the Carol 360 and the Familia 800. In the mid-1960s, the company collaborated with Gruppo Bertone to design the Luce, a new saloon car aimed at attracting discerning European customers.
Mazda’s history of success is closely linked to its innovative drive technologies. The company’s philosophy is to pursue unconventional solutions and develop unique, groundbreaking products.
A key factor in the brand’s success is the rotary engine. Inspired by NSU/Wankel’s system, they obtained a licence in 1961 and established a Rotary Engine Development Centre. At the Tokyo Motor Show, the company unveiled the world’s first two-rotor rotary engine, showcasing its technological advancements.
The company introduced a new four-door sedan with a powerful front engine, manufactured and marketed in collaboration with NSU.
1967
Mazda adopted the motto “the most creative automotive company in the world”. The company released a super sports car with distinctive features, the Cosmo Sport 110 S, powered by a two-rotor rotary engine. Their rotary engines have gained worldwide recognition, with nearly two million units sold.
Today, the company continues to be the sole manufacturer of Wankel-type engines for automobiles, producing the Pro Mazda Championship line. Its creativity extends beyond rotary engines to piston engines and highly efficient diesel motors. The company’s increased production led to significant exports to Europe and North America.
1968 to 1971
Mazda’s innovative coupes with powerful engines gained popularity in global markets. The company entered the Norwegian market in 1969 and later expanded to Germany, exhibiting at the Frankfurt Auto Show. They established Mazda Canada to serve the Canadian market and subsequently entered the United States a year later.
The R100 and RX-2 were particularly successful models in North America. The company also introduced the Rotary Pickup, a unique pickup truck powered by a rotary engine. By 1971, all Mazda cars were equipped with rotary engines.
1972
On November 23, Mazda (Motors) Deutschland was founded, marking a new beginning for the Japanese manufacturer. This night was special for Managing Director Masayuki Kirihara, who was revelling in Room 323 of the Düsseldorf Hilton before taking the entry in the commercial register. This number became the company’s lucky number by introducing the 323, which became Germany’s best-selling imported model and was a significant success.
1973
The company’s sales surged with the introduction of the mid-range 616 and the RX-3 coupe, both powered by two-rotor rotary engines. The company’s reputation for powerful engines and standard features was well-received by customers and industry journalists.
However, the 1973 oil crisis, triggered by the Arab oil embargo, negatively impacted the company, whose vehicles were known for their fuel consumption. As consumers shifted toward more fuel-efficient cars, the company’s sales declined.
1974
To recover from the financial downturn, Mazda sought intervention from business leaders. The Sumitomo Keiretsu Group adopted a new strategy, focusing on updating and manufacturing piston engines and developing a wider range of four-cylinder models.
But what about rotary engines? Rotary engines were reserved for sports vehicles, leading to the development of the lightweight RX-7 in 1978 and later the RX-8. Mazda also introduced the Roadster, known as the MX-5 or Miata, yet the designers were working more on building a lightweight sports car.
The company’s efforts to produce high-quality and durable car covers contributed to increased sales. their annual production of rotary-engine sports models reached 240,000 units, solidifying their position as a top ten automotive manufacturer.
1975
Despite facing challenges from the second oil crisis, Mazda demonstrated resilience and adaptability. The company’s Phoenix Plan focused on developing more efficient drive solutions and reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.
The company released the Cosmo AP and RX-5, featuring more efficient two-rotor engines that achieved a 40% reduction in consumption. These engines were among the first to meet new US emission regulations, enabling the brand to expand its lineup.
1976 – 1977
In 1976, Mazda offered the Titan and Bongo cab-over trucks with Ford badging. During 1977, the 323 continued to be a successful model, contributing to the brand’s growth. It gained recognition as an affordable and reliable vehicle, even in East and West Germany.
1978
The company introduced the 626, a four-door family saloon and coupe with a European-inspired design. It competed successfully in the intermediate class, known for its affordability, reliability, and advanced features like 4WS all-wheel steering.
The 626 became a bestseller in Germany, with over 4.3 million units sold across five generations by 2002. This model overperformed the 323, replacing its position as the bestselling Japanese automobile in Germany
1979
The company officially announced the RX-7, a popular sports car with a distinctive wedge-shaped body and pop-up headlights. It achieved significant sales success, particularly in the German market. This model gained recognition for its performance, winning prestigious awards like the American IMSA Championships and the 24-hour Spa-Francorchamps. It is considered one of the ultimate rotary-engine supercars for street use.
1980
Mazda agreed to supply manual transaxles to Ford, and the Familia platform was used in Ford models like the Laser and Escort. This allowed Ford to increase its financial stake in Mazda to 20% during the 1980s.
1984
Toyo Kogyo was renamed Mazda Motor Corporation. The first fundamental form of today’s logo was introduced in 1997; however, it has been modified over time. It symbolises the company’s forward-thinking and agile nature.
1987
This Japanese company opened a new factory in Flat Rock, Michigan, to produce the 626 sedans and the MX-6 sports coupe. Mazda and Ford continued to collaborate, with the 121 being a Mazda-updated version of the Ford Fiesta. Mazda attempted to introduce some Ford vehicles to the Japanese market through its dealer, Autorama.
1989
Mazda introduced the MX-5, a groundbreaking sports car that became a benchmark in the industry. The MX-5, also known as the Miata, was a two-seater roadster with rear-wheel drive and a front engine. It achieved significant sales success, setting a record in the Guinness Book of Records as the best-selling sports car for many years.
The MX-5’s development was a collaboration between Mazda’s Head of Development, Kenichi Yamamoto, and the American Motor Journalist, Bob Hall. Their vision of creating a desirable, affordable, and reliable sports car led to the MX-5’s success. With over one million units sold, the MX-5 became an iconic roadster and demonstrated the brand’s ability to turn dreams into reality.
1990
Knowledge is the only way to improve, and the company was aware of that. So, in 1990, they opened the European Mazda Research & Development Centre in Frankfurt am Main, Germany, to focus on technical innovation and cater to the European market.
1991
The racing industry was one of Mszda’s dreams; they wanted to break records and be a competitor to giants. In 1991, they achieved a significant milestone in motorsport by winning the 24-hour Le Mans race, becoming the first Japanese automaker to do so.
The 787B, powered by a four-rotor rotary engine, demonstrated exceptional performance. While the Navajo did not meet expectations, Mazda’s collaboration with Ford on the Explorer was successful. That drove Mazda to build its B-series trucks based on Ford’s Ranger pickup trucks from 1994 to 2010.
1995
Mazda was working on something special to prove its technology leadership. They introduced the Millenia luxury sedan, featuring the first Miller cycle engine. Although the Miller cycle engine was discontinued in 2002, the company’s innovation in this area was noteworthy.
1996
Despite facing challenges from currency fluctuations, Mazda’s sales improved in the domestic market thanks to revised distribution networks. In June, Henry Wallace, the new president, focused on restructuring the company and integrating it more closely with Ford. He aimed to streamline the operations by taking control of distributors, dealerships, and manufacturing facilities.
The company introduced the Xedos 6 and Xedos 9, targeting the premium segment in Germany. This period witnessed stiff competition with other brands causing problems in distribution. However, the company succeeded in getting back on track and returning to the core brand through its close financial partnership with Ford. During this period, Ford increased its equity stake to 33.4%.
1997
The development plan did not progress as expected, leading to the replacement of Henry Wallace with James Miller. Mark Fields, a Ford executive, became the head of the company.
2002
Ford increased its stake in Mazda by an additional 5%. As a result, Ford-badged Mazda cars replaced many of Mazda’s original models in Asian markets. The Telstar and Laser were sold along with other Mazda vehicles with the original brand badge.
Mazda closed its assembly plant in New Zealand and formed a joint venture with Ford New Zealand, VANZ. During this period, they adopted a new motto, “Zoom-Zoom,” representing the emotion of motion and symbolising a new era.
Mazda’s new concept, embodied by the Mazda3 and Mazda6, was a significant step forward. The company became a highly aspirational automotive brand, known for its innovative and exciting models. They introduced the Mazda6, Mazda5, CX-7, RX-8, and MX-5, showcasing its diverse product lineup. The Mazda6, a new intermediate model, was well-received and won several comparison tests.
2003
The company launched the Mazda3, a completely new model inspired by the Zoom-Zoom style. This model achieved significant sales success, with over 800,000 units sold in Germany alone. Owners praised it for its fresh feel, efficiency, and dynamic performance. It continues to be a popular model, with Mazda currently producing its third generation.
2006
The Mazda6 MPS, equipped with a powerful 191 kW/260 HP turbocharged petrol engine, showcased the company’s performance capabilities. It achieved a significant milestone, reaching one million units produced. Despite its high price, this model attracted customers who appreciated its luxury features and performance.
2007
Growing concerns about climate change and the need to reduce emissions led the brand to develop a sustainable vision, the “Sustainable Zoom-Zoom” Programme. The goal was to reduce fuel consumption for their vehicles by 30% by 2008.
The company also collaborated with other automakers to achieve a collective 30% reduction in fuel consumption by 2015. They focused on developing new engines and vehicle generations to support its sustainability goals.
2008
Ford sold nearly 20% of its shares in Mazda, reducing its stake to 11% due to the financial crisis. Mazda repurchased 6.8% of its shares and sold the remaining Ford shares to other partners. Takashi Yamanouchi was appointed as the CEO.
To address production costs, Ford and Mazda implemented a new strategy to reduce the local assembly of vehicles in countries like Australia. As a result, the 323 and the 626 were fully imported; however, the only models collected locally were Telstar and Laser.
Mazda also focused on developing a new, ecologically sustainable drive system, the RENESIS hydrogen rotary motor. They optimised fuel cell technology, using hydrogen and oxygen to power an electric motor. Their research into hydrogen fuel technology began in the 1990s. This technology was the basis of the RX-8 Hydrogen RE, a vehicle powered by a petrol and hydrogen-compatible rotary engine introduced in 2008.
2010
Ford further reduced its stake to 3% to explore other opportunities in new emerging markets. Mazda introduced SKYACTIV drive technology, a revolutionary package of innovative transmissions, safety devices, efficient engines, and lightweight construction.
SKYACTIV aimed to combine low power consumption, minimal emissions, and outstanding performance. This technology was used to develop the engine, chassis, body, and gearbox.
2012
Mazda introduced the new-generation CX-5, their first design to incorporate the “KODO: Soul of Motion” language. It showcased the complete SKYACTIV technology package. Inspired by the beauty of natural movements and the power of animals, the KODO design reflected their unique philosophy.
Within two years, one million SKYACTIV models, including the CX-5, Mazda3, and Mazda6, were on the road. The company also launched the Mazda3 SKYACTIV HYBRID in Japan, combining petrol and electric propulsion.
2015
Ford reduced its stake to 2.1%, but the companies remained strategic partners. Their joint projects continued to help each other develop. Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group became Mazda’s largest shareholder.
After parting ways with Ford, Mazda faced a significant loss and needed to raise capital through a share sale, quoted for more than USD 1.9 billion. A portion of the raised capital was used to establish a new plant in Mexico, a joint venture with Sumitomo Corporation. Then, Mazda formed a partnership with Toyota, exchanging SkyActiv engine technology for Toyota’s hydrogen fuel cell systems.
2016
Mazda celebrated its anniversary with the MX-5, the fourth generation of this iconic roadster. The release of a new splendid design, the RX-Vision concept car showcased the SKYACTIV-R rotary engine, a new development for the brand. The RX-Vision embodied Mazda’s technology, driving pleasure, and design concepts.
People Behind Mazda: Jujiro Matsuda
Jujiro Matsuda, the founder of Mazda, grew up in a humble fishing family in Hiroshima, Japan. Despite his challenging upbringing, Matsuda’s passion for manufacturing drove him forward. In the following lines, we will explore his life, philosophy, and legacy, which shaped the brand’s DNA.
His Early Life
Born in 1875, Jujiro Matsuda was the youngest of twelve siblings. Growing up during a time of economic hardship and societal changes, Matsuda had a limited education and helped his family with their fishing business.
Despite these challenges, Matsuda developed a strong interest in blacksmithing and machinery. With his father’s support, he pursued blacksmithing and opened his own forge at the age of 20. Unfortunately, his business struggled, and he was forced to work for others.
Career
Despite setbacks, Matsuda remained determined and continued to explore manufacturing. In 1906, he invented a unique pump and reopened his business, but it faced challenges. Undeterred, Matsuda joined a steel mill and focused on learning about manufacturing processes. At age 31, he founded Matsuda Seisakusho in Osaka, focusing on producing high-quality machines.
In 1918, he returned to Hiroshima and established Hiroshima Matsuda Seisakusho. His determination led him to join Toyo Cork Kogyo Co., Ltd and start a new chapter in his life. Matsuda faced challenges after a fire destroyed this factory but remained committed to his vision. He shifted the company’s focus to the machine industry and began producing three-wheeled trucks until 1939.
The End
During World War II, the company’s production was halted to support the Japanese military. After the war, Matsuda resumed vehicle production and contributed to rebuilding his community to improve their life quality after the atomic bomb. In 1951, he stepped down from the company’s management but remained chairman, and his son-in-law was leading the company. Jujiro Matsuda passed away in 1952.
Conclusion
Time and again, Mazda has proven its status as a major player in the automotive industry. They have built a legacy of exceptional vehicles that have delighted drivers worldwide. Their rich history is evident in every car they produce, showcasing their commitment to creating masterpieces.
