There are extensive milestones in the Mazda history timeline. With its rich and fruitful legacy beginning in 1967, Mazda has established a creative and breakthrough approach to vehicles we’ve loved over the brand’s existence.
1960s
Mazda debuted in 1967 with the 110S Cosmo Sport.
In 1968, sales began in Canada for the iconic R100 Coupe.
1970s
The Mazda RX-2 came out in 1971 with the RX-3 following up in 1972 and the RX-4 releasing in 1974.
Mazda established the famous “Great Little Car,” or GLC, in 1977.
Remember the B2000 compact pickup truck? It was released in 1978.
In 1979, Ford purchased 24.5% of the Mazda Motor Corporation.
1980s
In 1982, Mazda reached successful achievement of selling their one-millionth passenger car in the United States.
In 1982, the 626 in front-wheel drive debuted.
The following year, 1983, Mazda North America (which was created in 1981 with MTC and TKUS), forms a Detroit office dedicated to research and EPA emission testing.
In 1984, Mazda announced an exciting plan to create an assembly plant in Flat Rock, Michigan, which opened in 1985.
In 1986, Mazda sent the RX-7 to Bonneville National Speed Trials when it hit a record for its class at 238.442 miles per hour.
In 1989, Mazda announced the arrival of the Mazda MX-5 Miata sports cars, which we would see in 1990.
1990s
In 1990, the new Mazda MX-5 Miata won the “Automobile of the Year” award from Automobile Magazine, and it was placed on the “All-Star” list.
In 1991, the Mazda MX-5 Miata earned a Car and Driver “10Best” award.
In 1994, Mazda introduced the Miller-cycle engine for a high output option. 1994 was also an exciting time as it was the sixth year in a row for record passenger car sales in the U.S.
1995 was the year the Millenia S with the Miller-cycle engine stood out as one of the “Best Engines” by Wards Auto World.
In 1998, Mazda brought forth the MY1998.5 Mazda B-Series Cab Plus 4, making it the premier 4-door import brand truck.
In 1999, the Mazda MX-5 Miata turned 10 and received a special anniversary model.
2000s
The Mazda Tribute was released in 2001 with a matching model year.
In 2001, Mazda Motor Corporation celebrated 70 grand years of automotive making.
The Mazda MP3 came out in 2001 as a compact sport car as well.
In 2002, the Mazda Tribute wins awards from Automobile Magazine for “Best Small Sport Utility Vehicle” and Edmunds.com Editor’s Choice “Small SUV of the Year.”
2003 was memorable for the 2004 model year Mazda RX-8 sports car with a rotary engine—the only vehicle with this feature at the time.
In 2004, Edmunds.com awards the Mazda3 as the “Most Wanted Sedan Under $15,000.” The Mazda6 also receives a consecutive award from Money Magazine as “Best Family Sedan.”
