The Mazda RX-7 was something of an oddity on the stages (even in the really rather odd world of Group B) due to its Wankel rotary engine. It was impressively competitive though - on its debut at the 1981 RAC Rally in Wales it finished 11th, and even managed to place 3rd in the '85 Acropolis Rally.
Development was hampered by the fact that Mazda were more keen to focus expenditure on the Group A 323, but nevertheless the blue-and-white Mazda colours helped to draw a sizeable Japanese following to the predominantly European Group B arena.
Mazda's strategy turned out to be quite canny; the Group A 323 was launched in 1986, just after Group B was wound up, so they were ahead of the curve. However, there will always be a place in the hearts of Group B fans for the raspy, manic little Wankel coupe.
Development was hampered by the fact that Mazda were more keen to focus expenditure on the Group A 323, but nevertheless the blue-and-white Mazda colours helped to draw a sizeable Japanese following to the predominantly European Group B arena.
Mazda's strategy turned out to be quite canny; the Group A 323 was launched in 1986, just after Group B was wound up, so they were ahead of the curve. However, there will always be a place in the hearts of Group B fans for the raspy, manic little Wankel coupe.