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MAZDA

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Japanese manufacturer founded in 1920 as a cork factory, known for the Wankel engine and its 1991 Le Mans win.

Founded: 30 January 1920, by Jujiro Matsuda
Headquarters: Fuchū, Hiroshima, Japan
Former name: Toyo Cork Kogyo Co., Ltd.
Known for: Wankel engine, SkyActiv, Kodo design

Mazda was founded in 1920 as Toyo Cork Kogyo, a cork-making factory. It changed its name to Toyo Kogyo in 1927 and started producing vehicles in 1931; Ford was a major shareholder from 1974 until the late 2000s.

The company is known for the Wankel engine, the SkyActiv platform and the Kodo design language. Its rotary-powered 787B won the 24 Hours of Le Mans in 1991.

1920Toyo Cork Kogyo founded by Jujiro Matsuda
1927Renamed Toyo Kogyo Co., Ltd.
1931Vehicle production begins
1974Ford becomes a major shareholder
1991Mazda 787B wins the 24 Hours of Le Mans