This car caused sensation amongst the automotive community when it was first introduced in the 1970’s, and carries along an extremely unique history that simply must be discussed! This is the 1970 Mazda RX-500, which was a project car developed by Japanese multinational automaker, Mazda Motor Corporation. This unique machine was presented in 1970 as a celebration of Mazda’s 50th anniversary, and demonstrated an interesting design that was developed using a wind tunnel. The intention behind this vehicle was to test both high-speed and light-weight capabilities, and the car weighed a total of only 1,873lbs overall. Many different designs were tested in the wind tunnel, however, the research and design staff at the Toyo Kogyo Company went with the breadvan/Kamm tail design shown here. One of the most fascinating design elements on the RX-500 were the taillights, which would shine green while accelerating, orange while maintaining speed, and red for when you are breaking. Front-hinged ‘butterfly’ doors provided access to the interior which consisted of a wild-colored leather layout with a rather dashboard, leaving for a raw and engaged driving experience. Like many concepts and show cars, the RX-500 was painted in numerous shades to give the illusion that multiple examples were being produced, however, just one singular RX-500 was ever built. This was discovered during a restoration process conducted by Hisahiro Akimasa, who is the curator of the Hiroshima City Transport Museum, and restored the RX-500 39 years after it’s world debut in 2009 under Mazda’s approval. Three different paint layers were discovered, and the decision was made to restore that car back to it’s original paint finish. With its wedge-like styling, stellar performance numbers, and overall unique background story, the RX-500 easily fit’s right in on @rarecarsonly! The RX-500 is currently believed to be in Hiroshima at the Numaji Transport Museum.
How many made? 1 of 1
Engine: 982-cc twin-rotor 10A Wankel - 247hp
Debut: 1970 Tokyo Motor Show
Top Speed: 150mph
0-60: N/A
Photo Credit: @mc8_channel
Research: @rarecarsonly