I recently had the opportunity to write an article for Hagerty Media about my experience in the Mazda 787 Prototype, which I drove at the Monterey Motorsport Reunion last summer. I discussed the differences between driving a modern-era prototype racecar and the original GTP cars of the 1980s and 90s. (You can read the story right here!)
I’ve been fortunate to drive a lot of fun historic cars for Mazda at various events over the years. Writing that story for Hagerty got me thinking about them, so I thought I’d share a look at two of my favorites.
Early last year, I got to drive the 4-rotor-powered Mazda 792P at the Long Beach Grand Prix. The 792P succeeded the 787 in the evolution of Mazda prototypes, and they both share the incredible scream of that unmistakable Mazda rotary engine, which seems to have a limitless rev range. The one notable difference in the 792P is the amazing amount of extra downforce provided by its aerodynamics, including the rear wing and the tunnels that run under the car.
On the flipside of Prototypes, one of the other memorable Mazdas I’ve driven is the MX-6, which is a tube-frame GTU car that ran in IMSA’s previous heyday. (I think we can all agree IMSA is having another heyday right now!) This model has a two-rotor engine configuration, but with its lightweight tube-frame design and extra-wide tires, the mechanical grip this car creates is absolutely incredible and a true blast to drive. I got to put this car through its paces at the Monterey Motorsport Reunion at Laguna Seca in 2017.
Mazda plans to continue showcasing their heritage cars: look for them at select HSR events this coming season, where you’ll get to hear that screaming roar of the unique rotary engines for yourself!