The first Mazda was exported to the United States in 1970, and from that moment on, the company became committed to providing its customers with impressive vehicles that deliver what they promise - a reliable and secure driving experience. With this continued determination, it is no surprise that Mazda is a leader in the car industry today. Not many people know that Mazda began as a small cork company in Hiroshima, Japan. But in 1931, the company turned its attention to vehicles, and created the first Mazda three-wheel truck. However, it wasn't until the 1960's, that Mazda designed the cars that would find their way to the U.S. By 1970, the compact truck with a rotary engine - a two and four door version - was exported to America. Notoriety came quickly, and in 1981, the Mazda GLC was name the "Japanese Car of the Year." Another major recognition followed in 1986, when the Mazda RX-7 was noted to be the "Import Car of the Year." What's more, the RX-7 delighted its fans by setting a speed record at a Bonneville National Speed Trial - 238.442 miles per hour. As word spread about the Mazda models, the orders swarmed into Japan. By late 1980, it was reported that 20 million vehicles were being produced. A major milestone for Mazda was its 75th Anniversary, which also marked twenty-five years of business in the United States. In 1995 the Mazda company celebrated this tremendous achievement and looked forward to many more years of successful production. The next event that proved Mazda was fast becoming a leader in the car industry came in 1997. At this time, for the sixth year in a row, the Mazda Miata won an "All Stars" rating from Automobile magazine. Capitalizing on this, soon after Mazda came out with the Mazda 6 and the striking RX 8. |
