RX-4
The Mazda RX-4, also known as the Luce Rotary in Japan, is a mid-size sedan produced by Mazda from 1972 to 1977. It stands out with its Wankel rotary engine, offering a unique driving experience. Available in coupe, sedan, and wagon versions, the RX-4 made its mark with its elegant design and respectable performance. This page brings together the versions referenced by ScanRacer, including years, variants, rarities, and available detailed pages, linking the model overview to version-by-year pages.
Model summary
Data from the ScanRacer library, organized to compare versions quickly.
Model introduction
The Mazda RX-4, also known as the Luce Rotary in Japan, is a mid-size sedan produced by Mazda from 1972 to 1977. It stands out with its Wankel rotary engine, offering a unique driving experience. Available in coupe, sedan, and wagon versions, the RX-4 made its mark with its elegant design and respectable performance. This page brings together the versions referenced by ScanRacer, including years, variants, rarities, and available detailed pages, linking the model overview to version-by-year pages.
History
The Mazda RX-4 was introduced in 1972, succeeding the R130. Based on the Mazda 929 chassis, it was produced until 1977. Initially, it was equipped with a 12A rotary engine producing 130 horsepower, offering a sporty driving experience. In 1974, the 13B engine was introduced, producing 125 horsepower, primarily for export markets. The RX-4 was available in coupe, sedan, and wagon versions, the latter replacing the Savanna Wagon model. In 1976, a facelift was performed, bringing notable aesthetic changes. Production ended in 1977, with the RX-4 being replaced by the Mazda Luce Legato, although production continued until 1979 in South Africa. (automobiles-japonaises.com)
Generations
The Mazda RX-4 underwent two main generations. The first, from 1972 to 1975, was equipped with the 12A rotary engine producing 130 horsepower. In 1974, the 13B engine was introduced, offering 125 horsepower, primarily for export markets. The second generation, from 1976 to 1977, featured an aesthetic facelift, with notable changes to the front end. This generation continued to offer the same body and engine options as the previous one. (automobiles-japonaises.com)
Key differences
The main differences between the Mazda RX-4 generations lie in the engine and design. The first generation used the 12A rotary engine producing 130 horsepower, while the second generation introduced the 13B engine with 125 horsepower, primarily for export markets. Aesthetically, the second generation received a facelift in 1976, bringing notable changes to the front end of the vehicle. (automobiles-japonaises.com)
Photo recognition
To identify a Mazda RX-4, look for the following features: - **Body Style**: Available as a coupe, sedan, and wagon. - **Front Design**: The first generation features a more aggressive front design, while the second generation has a squarer design after the 1976 facelift. - **Engine**: The 12A rotary engine with 130 horsepower is replaced by the 13B engine with 125 horsepower in the second generation. These characteristics can help distinguish the RX-4 from other models of the era. (automobiles-japonaises.com)
Important versions
Key versions of the Mazda RX-4 include: - **Hardtop Coupe**: Two-door version with a rigid roof, offering a sporty driving experience. - **Sedan**: Four-door version, combining comfort and performance. - **Wagon**: Introduced in 1973 to replace the Savanna Wagon, offering more cargo space. These variants contributed to the versatility and popularity of the RX-4. (automobiles-japonaises.com)
References
- Mazda Luce Rotary (RX-4) data and specifications catalogueAutomobile-Catalog
- AJ - Mazda RX-4Automobiles Japonaises
- Mazda RX-4 | Classic Cars WikiClassic Cars Wiki
- https://www.automobile-catalog.com/make/mazda/rx-4/rx-4_coupe/1972.htmlautomobile-catalog.com
- https://www.automobile-catalog.com/car/1972/1616960/mazda_rx-4_sedan_4-speed.htmlautomobile-catalog.com
- https://dewiki.de/Lexikon/Mazda_RX-4dewiki.de
- https://www.autowiki.fi/index.php/Mazda_RX-4autowiki.fi