Mazda min sports car AZ-1
A unique combination that may never return
What would it look like if it made a comeback?
The late 1980s and early 1990s were a golden era for sports cars, particularly in Japan, where the bubble economy fueled ambitious automotive innovations. Among the standout creations of this period was the Mazda Autozam AZ-1, a kei sports car renowned for its gull-wing doors, tube-frame chassis, and rear midship engine layout. Released alongside the Honda Beat and Suzuki Cappuccino—collectively known as the “Heisei ABC”—the AZ-1’s unique design secured its place in automotive history despite being discontinued after just three years due to economic challenges.
Today, the AZ-1 remains a favorite among enthusiasts, and a modern reinterpretation by Bugatti-Rimac 3D modeler Vladimir Panchenko has reignited interest in this cult classic. Dubbed the AZ-2, this virtual rendering reimagines the AZ-1 with contemporary Mazda styling and cutting-edge features.
The AZ-2: Mazda’s Signature Design in a Compact Package
Panchenko’s AZ-2 rendering seamlessly integrates Mazda’s modern design language with the AZ-1’s iconic proportions. At the front, Mazda’s signature pentagonal grille takes center stage, framed by a honeycomb pattern and headlights extending from its edges. Air curtains on the matte black front bumper and crescent-shaped air vents above the headlamps add an aggressive edge to the design.
A large central air vent dominates the bonnet, which appears to merge with the front fender. The rounded windshield complements the gull-wing doors and midship engine layout, preserving the aerodynamic flow of the original model.
Short Proportions and Sportier Rear Design
The AZ-2 retains the short proportions characteristic of kei cars while introducing modernized features. The blacked-out A-pillar gives the upper cabin a dome-like appearance, enhancing the car’s visual compactness. Matte black side skirts integrate with the front bumper air curtains and wheelhouse vents, adding functional sophistication. Lightweight OZ Racing alloy wheels paired with low-profile tires further emphasize the car’s sporty intent.
At the rear, the AZ-2 adopts a sleeker, more dynamic look. The integrated spoiler, a signature feature of the original AZ-1, now boasts softer edges, while vents on the rear panel underscore the midship engine placement. The taillights, though reshaped, retain circular inner details as a nod to the original model.
Performance Upgrades and Twin-Turbo Flair
A Nostalgic Dream Unlikely to Return
The C pillar that wraps around the roof adds a three-dimensional feel to the body shape and is expected to protect the cabin in the event of a rollover accident. The inside of the bumper is also impressive. Unlike the original model that was equipped with a single turbo, the AZ-2 is equipped with a twin turbo. The symmetrically placed turbocharger, muffler, and intake filter emphasize this.
Despite the enthusiasm sparked by this rendering, it’s unlikely Mazda will revive the AZ-1. Its niche design and limited demand during its original run make a direct comeback commercially unfeasible. Instead, Mazda appears to focus on reviving another icon—the RX-7. It is rumored that the successor will incorporate a rotary engine and electric hybrid technology, drawing inspiration from the Iconic SP concept car revealed earlier.
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