Born in 1967, the Cosmo Sport introduced the revolutionary Wankel rotary engine to the world. More than just a car, it became a symbol of Japanese engineering excellence and daring innovation.
Welcome to the world's most comprehensive resource dedicated to the Mazda Cosmo Sport (L10A/L10B). Whether you're a seasoned collector, a restoration enthusiast, or simply captivated by this iconic machine, you've found your community. Explore decades of history, connect with fellow enthusiasts across the globe, and discover everything you need to preserve these magnificent automobiles for future generations.
128 PS • 1968–1972 • 833 Units Built
The Mazda Cosmo Sport wasn't just another sports car — it was a bold statement that Japan could compete with the world's finest automotive manufacturers.
At the heart of this remarkable machine lies the 10A twin-rotor Wankel engine, a powerplant that Mazda engineers spent years perfecting. Where others had failed to make the rotary engine reliable for mass production, Mazda succeeded through relentless dedication and engineering brilliance.
The result was a car that delivered smooth, high-revving power with minimal vibration — characteristics that made the driving experience unlike anything else on the road. Combined with its stunning Space Age design influenced by the era's fascination with aeronautics and futurism, the Cosmo Sport captured imaginations worldwide.
Today, fewer than 1,200 Cosmo Sports were ever built, and surviving examples have become highly prized collectors' items. Each one represents a pivotal moment in automotive history when a small Japanese company dared to dream big and changed the industry forever.
The story of the Mazda Cosmo Sport is one of determination, innovation, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence. From its debut at the 1964 Tokyo Motor Show to its final production unit in 1972, every chapter reflects Mazda's commitment to pushing boundaries.
Toyo Kogyo (later Mazda) signs a licensing agreement with NSU/Wankel GmbH to develop rotary engines. Engineers immediately encounter the infamous "chatter mark" problem — apex seals wearing prematurely and causing engine failure. Mazda assembles a dedicated team of 47 engineers, later known as "the rotary mavericks," to solve what many believed was an unsolvable problem.
The prototype "Cosmo Sport" makes its stunning debut at the Tokyo Motor Show, captivating visitors with its futuristic design and the promise of a production rotary engine. The sleek, aerodynamic bodywork designed by Mazda's styling team draws heavy inspiration from aerospace and the Space Age aesthetics of the era. International automotive press takes notice of this audacious Japanese newcomer.
After three more years of intensive development and over 300 prototype engines, production finally begins in May 1967. The Series I (L10A) features the 982cc 10A twin-rotor engine producing 110 PS at 7,000 rpm. With a top speed of 185 km/h and 0-400m in 16.3 seconds, it establishes the Cosmo Sport as a genuine high-performance machine. Each car is hand-assembled by a dedicated team of craftsmen.
The improved Series II (L10B) debuts with significant upgrades: wheelbase extended by 150mm for better stability, power increased to 128 PS at 7,000 rpm, and a new 5-speed manual gearbox replacing the original 4-speed. The longer wheelbase also allows for slightly more interior space. Production rates increase as Mazda's confidence in the rotary engine grows.
Two Cosmo Sports enter the grueling 84-hour Marathon de la Route at the Nürburgring. Despite racing against much more powerful competitors, one Cosmo finishes 4th overall — a remarkable achievement that proves the rotary engine's durability and Mazda's engineering prowess to a skeptical European audience. This success opens doors for Mazda's future motorsport endeavors.
Production of the Cosmo Sport ends after 1,176 units: 343 Series I (L10A) and 833 Series II (L10B). By this time, Mazda has successfully expanded the rotary engine to other models including the R100, RX-2, and RX-3. The Cosmo Sport's legacy lives on through these successors and, eventually, the legendary RX-7 and RX-8 series. Today, surviving Cosmo Sports are among the most collectible Japanese cars ever made.
Connect with passionate Cosmo Sport enthusiasts, collectors, and restoration experts from around the world.
Our community has been active for over two decades, bringing together owners, historians, and admirers of these exceptional automobiles. From technical discussions about rotary engine rebuilds to sharing rare photographs and documentation, our members represent the most dedicated Cosmo Sport enthusiasts anywhere.
Whether you own a Cosmo Sport, are searching for one, or simply appreciate the history and engineering of these remarkable cars, you'll find a welcoming home here. Our forums, events, and resources are designed to preserve the legacy of the Cosmo Sport for generations to come.
Everything you need to maintain, restore, and enjoy your Cosmo Sport. Our library includes decades of accumulated knowledge from the global enthusiast community.
Complete factory service manuals, parts catalogs, and wiring diagrams for both L10A and L10B models. Includes original Japanese documentation with English translations prepared by community experts.
Browse LibraryStep-by-step guides for common restoration procedures, from rotary engine rebuilds to bodywork and interior restoration. Includes supplier recommendations and cost estimates from recent projects.
Start LearningComprehensive directory of NOS (new old stock) parts suppliers, reproduction parts manufacturers, and trusted vendors worldwide. Community-verified with ratings and reviews from actual purchases.
Find Parts