Mazda reached its 100th anniversary on January 30 this year and to celebrate the occasion, the Japanese automaker has unveiled a special edition series that pays tribute to its first passenger vehicle, the R360 Coupe.
Launched in 1960, the R360 Coupe was designed for people who wanted to fulfil their dream of owning their own car. Symbolizing that intention was a four-cycle engine, an automatic transmission as well as a light monocoque construction that made the car easy to drive and nimble on the road.
R360 Coupe
These factors combined to provide – at an astonishingly affordable price – driving performance that eclipsed the era’s preceding micro-mini passenger cars. The R360 Coupe became an epoch-making car that accelerated the motorization of Japanese society and, to this day, stands as the starting point of Mazda’s vehicle production.
As for the special edition series, it comprises current Mazda offerings including the the MX-5, Mazda2, Mazda3, Mazda6, CX-3, CX-30, CX-5, CX-8 and CX-9. A two-tone colour scheme that is made up of Snow Flake White Pearl Mica exterior and burgundy interior is featured on all the models.
Apart from the unique colour combination, all models in the series are fitted with special 100th Anniversary badges on the fenders and on the hubcaps. The commemorative logo is also emblazoned on the key fob, headrests and floor mats.
According to Mazda, the 100th Anniversary Special Edition series is designed to express gratitude to the millions of people who have had dealings with the company over the years and a pledge that it will never forget its roots in the car-making business.
