Chef
10-15-2006, 10:47 PM
This is taken from Mazda's Website.
What started out as a tiny cork manufacturer in Hiroshima, Japan, today stands as a world leader in the production of commercial and passenger vehicles.
<div class="about_timeline_content"> 1920
Tokyo Cork Togyo Co, LTD is founded in Hiroshima, Japan.
1930's
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1931.gif
<div class="about_timeline_right"> 1931
Production of Mazda's first three-wheel truck begins.
As far as I can find the 40's and 50's didnt exist, but I am still looking...!
1960's
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1960.gif
1960
Mazda introduces the Mazda R380 Coupe, the first Mazda 2-door passenger car.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1961.gif
1961
The first Mazda compact pickup, the Mazda B-Series 1500 is introduced.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1962.gif
1962
Mazda introduces the Mazda Carol 600, the first Mazda 4-door passenger car.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1967_00.gif
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1967_01.gif
1970's
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1970.gif
1970
The birth of Mazda Motor of America (N.W.), Inc.
The first mass-produced rotary-powered car in America, the R100 coupe, powered by the same engine used in the Cosmo Sports kicks-off Mazda vehicle sales in the United States.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1971.gif
1971
Mazda launched the RX-2 in the United States. Available as both a 2-door coupe and 4-door sedan, this front engine / rear drive compact was the first model in the US to use the 12A rotary engine.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1972.gif
1972
Building upon the success of the 12A rotary engine and rear drive platform, Mazda introduced the RX-3. It is slightly smaller than the RX-2 and is available as a 2-door coupe, 4-door sedan and station wagon. The surprisingly high performance of the RX-2 and the RX-3 models gave Mazda a “giant killer” reputation for their ability to compete both on the street and on the track. Their products rivaled not only domestic V-8s, but also more expensive European sports models. Today most existing RX-2 & 3 models can be found on the race track.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1974.gif
1974
Mazda introduced the 110 hp 13B rotary engine with the new mid-size RX-4 coupe, sedan, and wagon. The 13B featured greater displacement, advances in cooling and rotor seals, better fuel economy and lower emissions. The car was redesigned in 1976 and renamed Cosmo. At the time, this new Cosmo was one of the most luxurious models available from Japan.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1975.gif
1975
Introduction of the famous "Mazda" typeface, which is still being used today.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1977.gif
1977
Mazda introduced the GLC. Originally rear-drive, the car is piston-engine powered and marks Mazda’s transition to piston-engines for its non-sports car models. The GLC also began a compact model line that has its direct decedents in the 323, Protegé and MAZDA3.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1978.gif
1978
Mazda introduced the RX-7, a light-weight, front-engine, rear-drive, 2-seater sports car designed to take full advantage of the rotary engine’s capabilities. The model earned Car of the Year Award across the world and made the Ten Best list in Car and Driver magazine five times.
Mazda built its one-millionth rotary powered vehicle.
Mazda introduced the 626 rear-drive, mid-size sedan and coupe.
Mazda introduced the B2000 compact pickup truck.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1979.gif
1979
A banner day at the 24-hours of Daytona when the RX-7s placed 1st and 2nd, and went on to win its first of seven consecutive GTU series championships.
1980's
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1980.gif
1980
Mazda unveiled its first front-wheel drive model to be sold in the US. The Mazda GLC is redesigned with a front-wheel drive platform. The Mazda GLC is named "1980-1981 Japanese Car of the Year."
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1982.gif
1982
The redesigned front-wheel drive 626 is introduced, earning numerous world-wide awards including "1983 Import Car of the Year" award from Motor Trend and "Car of the Year" from Wheels Magazine.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1985.gif
1985
After seven successful years, the RX-7 gets its first redesign. Known to enthusiasts as the "FC" the new design features rack-and-pinion steering, an independent rear suspension and an available 200 hp turbocharged model.
Mazda introduces the new B-Series pick-up.
The Mazda RX-7 breaks the IMSA record for a single model car with 67 victories.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1986.gif
1986
Mazda startled the compact class with the ultimate hot-hatch of its day, the turbocharged, all-whelel-drive 323 GTX.
The Mazda RX-7 is named 1986 ‘Import Car of the Year’ by Motor Trend Magazine. Mazda RX-7 sets a Bonneville National Speed Trial record of 238.442 mph in the SCTA’s C/Grand Touring Class.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1987.gif
1987
The RX-7, Mazda’s first convertible in the United States, is introduced.
Mazda begins vehicle production at a new U.S. facility, Mazda Motor Manufacturing Corporation in Flat Rock, Michigan
Mazda’s cumulative production reaches 20 million vehicles in Japan.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1988.gif
1988
Mazda introduces the Mazda MPV into the North American market.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1989.gif
1989
The birth of a cult. Mazda unveiled the Mazda MX-5 Miata at the Chicago Auto Show in February and sales commenced the following July. The Miata became an instant sales success and cultural sensation.
1990's
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1990.gif
1990
The Jim Russell Driving School designed the Formula Mazda open-wheel racing car for instructional use. The vast popularity of the instruction vehicle resulted into the development of the Star Mazda Series, which is the most popular open-wheel spec racing series today.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1991_00.gif
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1991_01.gif
1991
The Mazda 787B No. 55 wins the LeMans 24-Hour Endurance Race claiming the first victory for a Japanese automobile and the rotary engine.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1992.gif
1992
The rebirth of the RX-7. Mazda introduced its 3rd generation RX-7, the "FD," a pure high-powered sports car featuring a record breaking power-to-weight ratio and is still regarded as one of the best handling production cars of all time. All models are powered by a 255 hp refinement of the 13B engine featuring the first sequential twin-turbo system available in the US.
The Mazda Global Environmental Charter’ is adopted
Mazda develops the world’s first repeatedly-recyclable plastic composite. The new Mazda 626 receives the ‘Import Car of the Year’ award from Motor Trend magazine
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1993.gif
1993
The little known film Only the Strong opens featuring the Afro-Brazilian martial art Capoeira and introduces "Zoom-Zoom-Zoom" which later becomes a well-known theme song for Mazda.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1994.gif
1994
Mazda introduced the all-new Millenia. This is a luxury level sedan that features the high-output, fuel-efficient Miller-cycle engine (in the Millenia S), and the first automotive application of Miller-cycle technology.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1995.gif
1995
High insurance rates and a high yen-to-dollar ratio marked the end of RX-7 import into the US. Mazda continues production of the vehicle for other markets however, through 2002.
Mazda celebrates its 75th Anniversary.
Mazda celebrates its 25th year of doing business in the U.S.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1996.gif
1996
Scottish born Henry Wallace was hired as CEO of Mazda, making this the first time a Japanese car company had a non-Japanese CEO.
Mazda opens the new parts distribution center in Mississippi.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1997.gif
1997
Mazda MX-5 Miata wins ‘All Stars’ by Automobile magazine for the seventh consecutive year.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1998.gif
1998
The passion continued as Mazda unveiled the 2nd generation MX-5 Miata at the Chicago Auto Show.
2000's
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_2000.gif
2000
The Tribute is introduced as a 2001 model, the first SUV for Mazda.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_2001.gif
2001
Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) became the title sponsor of Mazda Raceway at Laguna Seca. With this agreement, Mazda was the first auto manufacturer to be the title sponsor of a major motorsports facility.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_2002.gif
2002
Mazda introduced the all-new MAZDA6 which receives over 60 domestic and world-wide awards.
Mazda brought back the rotary sports car to the world with the innovative RX-8. powered by an all-new RENESIS rotary engine. The RX-8 received Car and Driver "10Best" award, MONEY® magazine’s "Best Sports Car" award, and was an "All-Star" in 2004 Automobile Magazine
MAZDASPEED Protegé emerged on the scene as the first whole vehicle offered by Mazda’s performance division. The 170 hp turbocharged vehicle perpetuated the Mazda sports car reputation.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_2003.gif
2003
Mazda launched the 2004 MAZDA3, world-wide to critical acclaim, encouraging everyone to rethink what’s possible.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_2004.gif
2004
Another mark of high-performance, the MAZDASPEED MX-5 is introduced. This high-performance Miata, is the first-ever offered by Mazda, much to the delight of its dedicated fans.
With the addition of the MAZDA6 5-Door and Sport Wagon, to the Sports Sedan, Mazda became the only manufacturer in the US to offer a mid-size model in all three body styles.
The SpeedSource Racing RX-8 wins both driver and team championship in the Grand AM Cup in its first racing year.
Jeff Altenburg took the checkered flag in his new MAZDA6 racecar at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca which gave Mazda its first SCCA SPEED World Challenge Touring Car victory in the final round of the season.
There are more Mazdas raced in Sports Car Club of America competition on any given weekend than any other brand of vehicle.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_2005.gif
2005
The introduction of the 274 hp all-wheel-drive MAZDASPEED6 is the most powerful Mazda ever offered in the US.
(http://www.mazdausa.com/mazdaspeed6)
Mazda launches the MAZDA5 worldwide. In the US, it is the only sport hatch to offer three rows of seating.
(http://www.mazdausa.com/mazda5)
The company with a soul of a sports car puts its heart and soul into the first complete redesign of the MX-5, just the best-selling roadster in the world.
What started out as a tiny cork manufacturer in Hiroshima, Japan, today stands as a world leader in the production of commercial and passenger vehicles.
<div class="about_timeline_content"> 1920
Tokyo Cork Togyo Co, LTD is founded in Hiroshima, Japan.
1930's
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1931.gif
<div class="about_timeline_right"> 1931
Production of Mazda's first three-wheel truck begins.
As far as I can find the 40's and 50's didnt exist, but I am still looking...!
1960's
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1960.gif
1960
Mazda introduces the Mazda R380 Coupe, the first Mazda 2-door passenger car.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1961.gif
1961
The first Mazda compact pickup, the Mazda B-Series 1500 is introduced.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1962.gif
1962
Mazda introduces the Mazda Carol 600, the first Mazda 4-door passenger car.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1967_00.gif
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1967_01.gif
1970's
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1970.gif
1970
The birth of Mazda Motor of America (N.W.), Inc.
The first mass-produced rotary-powered car in America, the R100 coupe, powered by the same engine used in the Cosmo Sports kicks-off Mazda vehicle sales in the United States.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1971.gif
1971
Mazda launched the RX-2 in the United States. Available as both a 2-door coupe and 4-door sedan, this front engine / rear drive compact was the first model in the US to use the 12A rotary engine.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1972.gif
1972
Building upon the success of the 12A rotary engine and rear drive platform, Mazda introduced the RX-3. It is slightly smaller than the RX-2 and is available as a 2-door coupe, 4-door sedan and station wagon. The surprisingly high performance of the RX-2 and the RX-3 models gave Mazda a “giant killer” reputation for their ability to compete both on the street and on the track. Their products rivaled not only domestic V-8s, but also more expensive European sports models. Today most existing RX-2 & 3 models can be found on the race track.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1974.gif
1974
Mazda introduced the 110 hp 13B rotary engine with the new mid-size RX-4 coupe, sedan, and wagon. The 13B featured greater displacement, advances in cooling and rotor seals, better fuel economy and lower emissions. The car was redesigned in 1976 and renamed Cosmo. At the time, this new Cosmo was one of the most luxurious models available from Japan.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1975.gif
1975
Introduction of the famous "Mazda" typeface, which is still being used today.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1977.gif
1977
Mazda introduced the GLC. Originally rear-drive, the car is piston-engine powered and marks Mazda’s transition to piston-engines for its non-sports car models. The GLC also began a compact model line that has its direct decedents in the 323, Protegé and MAZDA3.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1978.gif
1978
Mazda introduced the RX-7, a light-weight, front-engine, rear-drive, 2-seater sports car designed to take full advantage of the rotary engine’s capabilities. The model earned Car of the Year Award across the world and made the Ten Best list in Car and Driver magazine five times.
Mazda built its one-millionth rotary powered vehicle.
Mazda introduced the 626 rear-drive, mid-size sedan and coupe.
Mazda introduced the B2000 compact pickup truck.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1979.gif
1979
A banner day at the 24-hours of Daytona when the RX-7s placed 1st and 2nd, and went on to win its first of seven consecutive GTU series championships.
1980's
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1980.gif
1980
Mazda unveiled its first front-wheel drive model to be sold in the US. The Mazda GLC is redesigned with a front-wheel drive platform. The Mazda GLC is named "1980-1981 Japanese Car of the Year."
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1982.gif
1982
The redesigned front-wheel drive 626 is introduced, earning numerous world-wide awards including "1983 Import Car of the Year" award from Motor Trend and "Car of the Year" from Wheels Magazine.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1985.gif
1985
After seven successful years, the RX-7 gets its first redesign. Known to enthusiasts as the "FC" the new design features rack-and-pinion steering, an independent rear suspension and an available 200 hp turbocharged model.
Mazda introduces the new B-Series pick-up.
The Mazda RX-7 breaks the IMSA record for a single model car with 67 victories.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1986.gif
1986
Mazda startled the compact class with the ultimate hot-hatch of its day, the turbocharged, all-whelel-drive 323 GTX.
The Mazda RX-7 is named 1986 ‘Import Car of the Year’ by Motor Trend Magazine. Mazda RX-7 sets a Bonneville National Speed Trial record of 238.442 mph in the SCTA’s C/Grand Touring Class.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1987.gif
1987
The RX-7, Mazda’s first convertible in the United States, is introduced.
Mazda begins vehicle production at a new U.S. facility, Mazda Motor Manufacturing Corporation in Flat Rock, Michigan
Mazda’s cumulative production reaches 20 million vehicles in Japan.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1988.gif
1988
Mazda introduces the Mazda MPV into the North American market.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1989.gif
1989
The birth of a cult. Mazda unveiled the Mazda MX-5 Miata at the Chicago Auto Show in February and sales commenced the following July. The Miata became an instant sales success and cultural sensation.
1990's
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1990.gif
1990
The Jim Russell Driving School designed the Formula Mazda open-wheel racing car for instructional use. The vast popularity of the instruction vehicle resulted into the development of the Star Mazda Series, which is the most popular open-wheel spec racing series today.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1991_00.gif
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1991_01.gif
1991
The Mazda 787B No. 55 wins the LeMans 24-Hour Endurance Race claiming the first victory for a Japanese automobile and the rotary engine.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1992.gif
1992
The rebirth of the RX-7. Mazda introduced its 3rd generation RX-7, the "FD," a pure high-powered sports car featuring a record breaking power-to-weight ratio and is still regarded as one of the best handling production cars of all time. All models are powered by a 255 hp refinement of the 13B engine featuring the first sequential twin-turbo system available in the US.
The Mazda Global Environmental Charter’ is adopted
Mazda develops the world’s first repeatedly-recyclable plastic composite. The new Mazda 626 receives the ‘Import Car of the Year’ award from Motor Trend magazine
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1993.gif
1993
The little known film Only the Strong opens featuring the Afro-Brazilian martial art Capoeira and introduces "Zoom-Zoom-Zoom" which later becomes a well-known theme song for Mazda.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1994.gif
1994
Mazda introduced the all-new Millenia. This is a luxury level sedan that features the high-output, fuel-efficient Miller-cycle engine (in the Millenia S), and the first automotive application of Miller-cycle technology.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1995.gif
1995
High insurance rates and a high yen-to-dollar ratio marked the end of RX-7 import into the US. Mazda continues production of the vehicle for other markets however, through 2002.
Mazda celebrates its 75th Anniversary.
Mazda celebrates its 25th year of doing business in the U.S.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1996.gif
1996
Scottish born Henry Wallace was hired as CEO of Mazda, making this the first time a Japanese car company had a non-Japanese CEO.
Mazda opens the new parts distribution center in Mississippi.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1997.gif
1997
Mazda MX-5 Miata wins ‘All Stars’ by Automobile magazine for the seventh consecutive year.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_1998.gif
1998
The passion continued as Mazda unveiled the 2nd generation MX-5 Miata at the Chicago Auto Show.
2000's
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_2000.gif
2000
The Tribute is introduced as a 2001 model, the first SUV for Mazda.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_2001.gif
2001
Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) became the title sponsor of Mazda Raceway at Laguna Seca. With this agreement, Mazda was the first auto manufacturer to be the title sponsor of a major motorsports facility.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_2002.gif
2002
Mazda introduced the all-new MAZDA6 which receives over 60 domestic and world-wide awards.
Mazda brought back the rotary sports car to the world with the innovative RX-8. powered by an all-new RENESIS rotary engine. The RX-8 received Car and Driver "10Best" award, MONEY® magazine’s "Best Sports Car" award, and was an "All-Star" in 2004 Automobile Magazine
MAZDASPEED Protegé emerged on the scene as the first whole vehicle offered by Mazda’s performance division. The 170 hp turbocharged vehicle perpetuated the Mazda sports car reputation.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_2003.gif
2003
Mazda launched the 2004 MAZDA3, world-wide to critical acclaim, encouraging everyone to rethink what’s possible.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_2004.gif
2004
Another mark of high-performance, the MAZDASPEED MX-5 is introduced. This high-performance Miata, is the first-ever offered by Mazda, much to the delight of its dedicated fans.
With the addition of the MAZDA6 5-Door and Sport Wagon, to the Sports Sedan, Mazda became the only manufacturer in the US to offer a mid-size model in all three body styles.
The SpeedSource Racing RX-8 wins both driver and team championship in the Grand AM Cup in its first racing year.
Jeff Altenburg took the checkered flag in his new MAZDA6 racecar at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca which gave Mazda its first SCCA SPEED World Challenge Touring Car victory in the final round of the season.
There are more Mazdas raced in Sports Car Club of America competition on any given weekend than any other brand of vehicle.
http://www.mazdausa.com/MusaWeb/images/about/pho_about_timeline_2005.gif
2005
The introduction of the 274 hp all-wheel-drive MAZDASPEED6 is the most powerful Mazda ever offered in the US.
(http://www.mazdausa.com/mazdaspeed6)
Mazda launches the MAZDA5 worldwide. In the US, it is the only sport hatch to offer three rows of seating.
(http://www.mazdausa.com/mazda5)
The company with a soul of a sports car puts its heart and soul into the first complete redesign of the MX-5, just the best-selling roadster in the world.