Mazda 787B (1991) — The Rotary Legend That Changed Le Mans Forever
Mazda 787B (1991) — The Rotary Legend That Changed Le Mans Forever The Mazda 787B remains one of the most distinctive and historically significant endurance racing cars ever built. Its victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1991 was not just a win — it marked the only time a car powered by a rotary engine achieved overall victory at the event. This alone places the 787B in a category of its own within motorsport history. Unlike conventional piston engines, the 787B used a four-rotor R26B engine. This power unit delivered a unique combination of high-revving performance, smooth power delivery, and a sound that became instantly recognisable on the circuit. The engine’s reliability over 24 hours proved that the rotary concept, often considered unconventional, could compete at the highest level. The car was developed by Mazda in collaboration with Mazdaspeed and engineered specifically for Group C racing regulations. Its lightweight construction, aerodynamic efficiency,...