How Many Mazda 787B Are There? A Deep Dive Into The Iconic Race Car

The Mazda 787B is a legendary sports car that has captured the hearts of automotive enthusiasts and racing fans alike. Known for its unique rotary engine and remarkable success in endurance racing, particularly at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the 787B stands out as a symbol of innovation and performance. In this article, we will explore the history, specifications, and production numbers of the Mazda 787B, shedding light on how many of these remarkable vehicles exist today.

The iconic Mazda 787B was produced during the early 1990s, a period when Mazda was making waves in the world of motorsport. Its distinct design, powered by a 4-rotor Wankel engine, paved the way for numerous victories, and it remains a topic of fascination for collectors and enthusiasts. With its unique characteristics and racing pedigree, many wonder just how many of these rare vehicles are still in existence.

Join us as we delve deeper into the world of the Mazda 787B, including its biographical details, specifications, and the factors contributing to its rarity. By the end of this article, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of the Mazda 787B, its significance in automotive history, and the current status of these extraordinary cars.

Table of Contents

• 1. History of the Mazda 787B
• 2. Specifications of the Mazda 787B
• 3. Production Numbers of the Mazda 787B
• 4. Notable Victories of the Mazda 787B
• 5. Current Status of Mazda 787B
• 6. Ownership and Collectibility
• 7. Cultural Impact of the Mazda 787B
• 8. Conclusion

1. History of the Mazda 787B

The Mazda 787B was developed as part of Mazda's participation in the World Sportscar Championship during the late 1980s and early 1990s. It was a successor to the Mazda 767B, which had already established a reputation in endurance racing.

Introduced in 1991, the 787B featured significant advancements over its predecessor, including a lightweight carbon fiber chassis and a revolutionary 4-rotor Wankel engine. The car was designed to comply with Group C regulations, which allowed for a combination of manufacturers’ ingenuity and performance.

Key Milestones

• 1991: Debut of the Mazda 787B at the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
• 1991: Achieved a historic victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, becoming the first and only rotary engine car to win the event.
• 1992: Continued racing success, solidifying its place in motorsport history.

2. Specifications of the Mazda 787B

The Mazda 787B is celebrated for its innovative design and engineering. Below are some of the key specifications that define this iconic race car:

3. Production Numbers of the Mazda 787B

One of the most intriguing aspects of the Mazda 787B is its production numbers. Only a limited number of these cars were produced, contributing to their rarity and desirability among collectors.

Mazda manufactured a total of **five** 787B chassis specifically for racing purposes. The car's limited production and unique engineering features have made it a sought-after item in the collector's market.

Factors Influencing Rarity

• Limited production run
• High-performance nature leading to wear and tear
• Significant historical value due to racing achievements

4. Notable Victories of the Mazda 787B

The Mazda 787B is best known for its remarkable victory at the 1991 24 Hours of Le Mans. This achievement was monumental for several reasons:

• First rotary engine car to win the event
• Demonstrated the potential of alternative engine designs
• Established Mazda as a serious competitor in endurance racing

5. Current Status of Mazda 787B

Today, the Mazda 787B is a sought-after collector's item, with only a few examples remaining in existence. Many of these cars are preserved in museums or private collections, celebrated for their historical significance and engineering marvel.

The car's value has skyrocketed in recent years, with auction prices reaching millions of dollars. As a result, the 787B has become a symbol of automotive excellence and a testament to Mazda's racing heritage.

6. Ownership and Collectibility

Owning a Mazda 787B is a dream for many car enthusiasts. The rarity of the vehicle, combined with its racing pedigree, makes it a coveted piece of automotive history. Here are some key points regarding ownership:

• High demand among collectors
• Significant investment potential
• Limited availability for purchase

7. Cultural Impact of the Mazda 787B

The Mazda 787B has left a lasting impact on both the automotive community and popular culture. Its unique design and performance characteristics have influenced various aspects of car design and racing:

• Inspiration for future Mazda models
• Featured in video games, including the Gran Turismo series
• Symbol of innovation in rotary engine technology

8. Conclusion

In conclusion, the Mazda 787B is not just a race car; it is a symbol of engineering ingenuity, a testament to Mazda's commitment to motorsport, and a collectible treasure for automotive enthusiasts. With only five units produced and a remarkable legacy, the Mazda 787B stands as a beacon of what is possible in the world of automotive excellence. If you ever have the chance to see one in person, take the opportunity to witness a piece of history.

We invite you to leave your comments below, share this article with fellow car enthusiasts, and explore more about the incredible world of motorsport and iconic vehicles.

Thank you for reading, and we look forward to bringing you more insightful articles in the future!