RideLust

Think Mazda rotary and the venerable RX-7 inevitably comes to mind. But it all started with the humble RX-2. The sleek little coupe was one of the first rotary-powered Mazdas to be widely raced. It paved the way for the tremendously successful RX-7. The RX-2 was sold in the U.S. from 1970 till 1978. Unfortunately, its early 12A rotary had oil seals like sieves. And when an RX-2′s engine seized, many owners simply dumped them. Few RX-2s survive today. This one belongs to long-time racer Bob Maywell. It’s powered by a turbocharged 12A that yowls like a scared cat and has been fully prepped for racing. Maywell works full-time at Thunderhill, so this little RX-2 gets tons of track time. It’s a wicked little beast and if I had my druthers, I’d be driving one just like it right now. Hit the jump for more photos.

Source: Speedhunters, Modified Magazine