What are the models with rotary engines?
4 Answers
Models with rotary engines include the Mazda RX7 and Mazda RX8. Below is an introduction to rotary engines: 1. Working Principle: The expansion pressure of a rotary engine acts on the sides of the rotor, pushing one of the three faces of the triangular rotor toward the center of the eccentric shaft. This movement occurs under the influence of two component forces: one is the centripetal force pointing toward the center of the output shaft, and the other is the tangential force causing the rotation of the output shaft. 2. Advantages: This engine boasts the advantages of being lightweight, compact in structure, and high in power performance. The rotary engine can simultaneously address issues of fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. In the development of rotary engines, Mazda has reached a technological peak in terms of maximum power.
The most famous rotary engine models are undoubtedly the Mazda series, and as a car enthusiast, I must say they are truly driving treasures. The most iconic is the RX-7, especially the FD version from the 1990s, with its streamlined design and high-revving characteristics—delivering direct power and wild engine notes when driven. Then there's the RX-8, the representative model post-2000s, featuring a twin-rotor design. Though its horsepower isn't top-tier, it offers precise steering and agile handling. Even earlier was the Cosmo Sport, Mazda's first rotary-powered car in 1967, which defined the rotary legend. Unfortunately, these models are now discontinued due to high maintenance costs, poor fuel efficiency (consuming over 15 liters per 100 km), and environmental concerns. To own one, you'll need to explore the used car market. If your budget allows, a well-maintained FD is the way to go for experiencing that exhilarating high-speed rush.
After years of repairing cars, I've seen many rotary engine models with issues. The Mazda RX-7 and RX-8 are the mainstream ones, with FC and FD series commonly experiencing oil seal leaks leading to oil burning or white smoke. Older cars like the Cosmo Sport often have aging wiring and hard-to-find maintenance parts. If owners choose such cars, they must ensure the engine seals are new and regularly change specialized oil to avoid accelerated wear at high RPMs. Other brands like the NSU Ro80 attempted rotary engines but had poor reliability, making Mazda practically the only successful one. In short, don't go for cheap options; find a shop with a rotary-savvy mechanic to thoroughly inspect the intake system.
From a historical perspective, the rotary engine was invented by Felix Wankel and adopted by Mazda for mass production in the 1960s. Iconic models include the first-generation Cosmo Sport, which helped popularize rotary technology. The RX-7 then dominated racetracks in the 1980s, with its success at Le Mans bringing significant fame. The RX-8 took over in the 2000s, featuring a twin-rotor design more suited for daily driving. As emissions regulations tightened, these engines largely disappeared after 2010. Mazda has produced limited concept car revivals but no mass production, making used cars the primary source today. Enthusiasts often cherish these vehicles for their distinctive sound, though maintaining complete service records is crucial.
