100 years of memorable Mazdas: from tiny Kei cars to Group B rally stars
Exploring the astonishing exhibits of the famous Mazda Classic Automobil Museum Frey
Tucked away in the centre of Augsburg in Germany sits an architecturally-imposing building. Striking as it is, there’s very little signage to inform passers-by the life this former tram depot now lives. But for the inquisitive, or those who know what they’re looking, for there is a small sign: Mazda Classic Automobil Museum Frey.
For anyone with even the remotest interest in Mazda, this is heaven. There are now close to 300 rare and clever vehicles representing every model and series launched by the manufacturer since the 1930s. Given this year is the Japanese carmaker’s centenary, It was the perfect time to go knocking on the door of Walter Frey’s Aladdin’s cave.
Walter — a most genial 70-something — loves Mazdas and has been a Mazda dealer since 1978, drawn to the brand by its unconventional approach to technology. His passion has evolved into the creation of the biggest and most comprehensive selection of heritage Mazdas in world, assisted by his equally obsessed sons Joachim and Markus. There are cars here that even Mazda doesn’t have in its own collection in Japan! Star of the show is the first car in Walter’s collection – a 1968 Cosmo Sport 110S – but on own private whistle-stop tour we discover some other absolute gems.
Walter — a most genial 70-something — loves Mazdas and has been a Mazda dealer since 1978, drawn to the brand by its unconventional approach to technology. His passion has evolved into the creation of the biggest and most comprehensive selection of heritage Mazdas in world, assisted by his equally obsessed sons Joachim and Markus. There are cars here that even Mazda doesn’t have in its own collection in Japan! Star of the show is the first car in Walter’s collection – a 1968 Cosmo Sport 110S – but on own private whistle-stop tour we discover some other absolute gems.
5. 1968 Mazda Cosmo Sport 110S
This is the car which started Walter’s Mazda Museum collection. “It was always so important to have a car like this,” he smiled. “Even today I love it.” Now, 40 years after he bought it in the States, it’s the first car which greets you as you enter the museum. It’s also the most coveted and photographed car in the museum. Powered by the world's first twin-rotary engine, it produces 128bhp and ha a top speed of 125mph.
Photo: Mazda Classic Automobil Museum Frey
6. 1972 Mazda Pathfinder XV-1
Built in Myanmar — formerly Burma — a small number of Pathfinders, a traditionally-constructed off-road vehicle, were created by Mazda. The 4x4, with a convertible soft-top or an enclosed nine-seat wagon, was mostly bought by the police, military and government agencies. This Pathfinder XV-1 was one of the most difficult of the models for the Freys to find for the museum.
Photo: Jim McGill
7. 1974 Mazda Rotary Pick-up
The only pick-up worldwide with a rotary piston engine was available in North America, where a total of 16,272 units were sold; just 600 of them as tow trucks. The enjoyed an impressive fan base amongst families, farmers, workshops … and even racers. The most impressive racing victory by a rotary pickup came in the 1975 Mojave 24 Hour Rally
Photo: Jim McGill
8. 1975 Mazda RX-3
Another rotary-powered wonder. The RX-3 racked up more than 100 touring car victories around the world thanks in no small measure to the power and versatility of its Wankel engine
Photo: Mazda Classic Automobil Museum Frey