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Mazda Cosmo

Mazda

Mazda Cosmo: Mazda's first sports car. Cosmo Sport (1967-1972) launched the rotary era. Multiple Cosmo generations through
Photo: Mytho88 / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.0

Mazda's first sports car. Cosmo Sport (1967-1972) launched the rotary era. Multiple Cosmo generations through 1995, with the Eunos Cosmo being the apex.

The Mazda Cosmo is a luxury sport coupe across multiple generations from 1967 to 1995. The original Cosmo Sport (1967-1972) was Mazda first sports car and the world first production rotary-powered car (using the original 10A rotary engine). The Cosmo became Mazda technological showcase and the foundation for the rotary engine development that defined the brand. Notable Cosmo generations include the Cosmo Sport (1967-1972, the first generation, very rare), Cosmo AP (1975-1981, a more refined sport coupe), Cosmo HB (1981-1989, the first Cosmo with electronic fuel injection), and the Eunos Cosmo (1990-1995, the breakthrough modern Cosmo). The Eunos Cosmo (1990-1995) is the most respected Cosmo. Sold under Mazda Eunos sub-brand in Japan, the Eunos Cosmo used the 13B-REW twin-rotor turbocharged engine (similar to FD3S RX-7) or the 20B-REW three-rotor twin-turbocharged engine (the only mass-production three-rotor engine ever made). The 20B variants made 280 horsepower factory rating (likely more) and offered exceptional performance. Production was limited and the Cosmo is now a cult collector item. Mazda Cosmo production ended in 1995 with no successor. The Cosmo nameplate has not been revived. The cars remain relatively rare globally; cleanest examples are in Japan with limited availability for international import. On WhipJury, Cosmo submissions are extremely rare but always memorable. The Eunos Cosmo with the 20B-REW three-rotor is one of the most distinctive Japanese sport coupes ever produced.

The 20B-REW three-rotor

The Mazda Eunos Cosmo's 20B-REW is the only mass-production three-rotor engine ever made. Three rotors, twin sequential turbochargers, 280 horsepower factory rating. The engine is engineering remarkable; the smooth power delivery and unique character distinguish it from twin-rotor competitors. The 20B-REW has been a foundation for racing applications globally.

Cosmo on WhipJury

Cosmo submissions are rare. The Eunos Cosmo with 20B-REW is the most desirable variant. Original Cosmo Sport (1967-1972) examples are very rare and collector-tier. Modern Eunos Cosmo cars in original or restored condition reliably top voting when they appear.

Frequently asked questions about Mazda Cosmo

What is the most legendary Cosmo?
Two candidates. The original Cosmo Sport (1967-1972) launched the rotary engine in production cars and is the most historically significant. The Eunos Cosmo (1990-1995) with 20B-REW three-rotor engine is the most desirable for modern collectors. Both have devoted followings.
Was the Eunos Cosmo sold in the US?
No, JDM-only. The Eunos Cosmo (1990-1995) was sold under Mazda Eunos sub-brand in Japan only. The cars can be imported to the US under the 25-year rule (early 1990 Eunos Cosmos became eligible in 2015). The cars are rare and command significant prices.
How much does a Cosmo cost?
Original Cosmo Sport (1967-1972): Very rare, $80,000-$200,000+ at auction for clean examples. Modern Eunos Cosmo: $30,000-$70,000+ depending on condition and trim. The 20B-REW three-rotor variant is the most expensive modern Cosmo.
Are Cosmos reliable?
Mixed. The 20B-REW three-rotor is a complex engine with the same fundamental rotary issues as twin-rotors (apex seal wear, fuel/oil consumption). Three rotors add complexity; rebuilds are more expensive than two-rotor equivalents. With careful maintenance, the engine can be reliable. The platform has dedicated rotary specialists globally.
Will Mazda revive the Cosmo?
Periodic rumors. Mazda has shown various concept cars (Iconic SP) that reference the Cosmo lineage. A production Cosmo successor has not been announced. The challenges of rotary emissions compliance limit modern rotary production; whether a Cosmo successor is developed depends on Mazda strategy and engineering progress.

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