In the annals of automotive history, few cars capture the spirit of innovation and style quite like the 1968 Mazda Cosmo Sport Series 2 Coupé.
Born from the ambitious vision of Mazda Motor Corporation, this vehicle marks a pivotal moment in the company’s journey into the world of passenger cars.
Mazda’s Foray into the Automotive World
Founded in the 1920s, Mazda initially tread a path unrelated to passenger vehicles.
However, by 1960, the Japanese brand pivoted towards the mass production of cars, a significant leap that would define its future.
The year 1964 marked a turning point when Mazda embraced the revolutionary rotary engine technology pioneered by NSU’s Wankel, setting the stage for what was to come.
The Dawn of the Rotary Engine: Cosmo L10A
Mazda’s inaugural venture into rotary-powered vehicles came with the Cosmo L10A in 1966, a model that proceeded into production in 1967.
This vehicle wasn’t just a car; it was a statement of technical ingenuity, featuring a twin-rotor engine that boasted 982cc displacement and an impressive 110bhp output.
The Cosmo’s design was as elegant as its engineering, offering a sleek two-seater coupe form that could reach speeds of 185km/h (110mph).
The Evolution: Cosmo Sport Series 2
By July 1968, Mazda was ready to unveil the next chapter in the Cosmo’s legacy—the L10B version.
This variant wasn’t just an upgrade; it was a transformation, enhancing power to 128bhp and pushing top speeds to 193km/h.
The vehicle’s extended wheelbase contributed to its improved performance and aesthetic appeal.
A Legacy of Craftsmanship and Rarity
Mazda’s dedication to craftsmanship was evident in the production of the Cosmo, with each unit being assembled meticulously at a rate of one car per day.
This commitment to quality resulted in a limited edition masterpiece, with only 343 units of the Cosmo Sport Series 1 produced, followed by 1,176 units of the Series 2.
Today, the Mazda Cosmo is revered as a collectible icon, standing shoulder to shoulder with other legendary Japanese automobiles like the Toyota 2000 GT and Nissan Skyline GT-R.
Conclusion: The Mazda Cosmo’s Enduring Legacy
The 1968 Mazda Cosmo Sport Series 2 Coupé remains a testament to Mazda’s innovative spirit and commitment to excellence.
As a beacon of Japanese automotive history, the Cosmo continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike, representing a golden era of design and engineering.
Its legacy endures, reminding us of a time when the future was forged on the roads of innovation.
