Mazda 787B: The Rotary That Conquered Le Mans

In June 1991, the roar of engines filled the Circuit de la Sarthe in France for the 59th running of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Among the usual favorites—Jaguar, Mercedes, and Peugeot—stood a Japanese underdog: Mazda. By the end of the race, Mazda had done the impossible. Their 787B not only became the first Japanese car to win Le Mans, but also the only rotary-powered car ever to claim victory.

A Different Kind of Engine

What set Mazda apart was the R26B rotary engine inside the 787B. Unlike traditional piston engines, the rotary uses triangular rotors spinning inside an oval housing. This design means fewer moving parts, less vibration, and the ability to rev well beyond 9,000 RPM.

In race trim, the R26B delivered around 700 horsepower, while qualifying setups pushed closer to 900 horsepower. Its compact, lightweight construction improved handling and balance, while its fuel efficiency meant fewer pit stops—crucial in a grueling 24-hour race.

And then there was the sound. The high-pitched scream of the four-rotor engine became an unforgettable part of Le Mans history.

Decades in the Making

Mazda’s journey at Le Mans began in 1970, when a rotary-powered Chevron B16 became the first car of its kind to race there. Throughout the ’70s and ’80s, Mazda returned again and again, earning respect but falling short of victory.

By the late ’80s, prototypes like the 767 and 787 showed promise but were plagued with mechanical issues. In 1990, the 787 debuted with the R26B engine, but reliability problems cut its run short. To make matters more urgent, new FIA rules declared that 1991 would be the final year rotary engines were allowed. For Mazda, it was now or never.

The 1991 Race

Mazda entered two new 787Bs and one older 787. The #55 car, painted in the now-iconic green-and-orange “Charge” livery, qualified in 19th place—far behind the favorites. On paper, the 787B lacked outright speed.

But Le Mans is not won on paper.

As the race wore on, faster rivals faltered. Peugeot suffered mechanical failures. Jaguar withdrew its fastest entry before the start. Even Mercedes, which led through the night, saw its leading car retire with overheating issues.

Through it all, the #55 Mazda ran flawlessly. The rotary engine’s durability and efficiency proved unbeatable, and after 24 hours, the 787B crossed the finish line two laps clear of Jaguar.

A Victory Never to Be Repeated

Mazda’s triumph was historic. It was Japan’s first-ever Le Mans victory, and it secured the rotary engine’s place in racing legend. But it was also the end of an era. With the rotary banned from competition in 1992, the 787B remains the only rotary-powered car to win Le Mans.

Mazda had turned an underdog story into motorsport immortality.

Legacy of the 787B

Today, the Mazda 787B is remembered not just for its win, but for what it represented: innovation, persistence, and the spirit of racing against the odds. Its scream still echoes in the memories of fans, a sound that defined a moment when David truly beat Goliath.