Mazda R360 (Japan, 1960-1966)

Mazda launched its first passenger car, the R360 coupe, throughout Japan on May 28, 1960. It was a period of improved income levels and changing lifestyles in Japan, with a growing demand of cars. The cars of the period even the mini cars for the masses were expensive and hard to come by. However, people still dreamed of having their own car.

The R360, benefited of a increased manufacturing efficiency that allowed Mazda to introduce models with very low sticker prices--300,000 yen for the manual transmission version and 320,000 yen for the first car in the country equipped with a torque converter.

Mazda 360 Coupe sold very well in Japan. In August of 1960, Mazda was selling more than 2,000 units per month. In December of that year the company saw record-breaking sales of 4,090 units. The aggregate production figure for 1960 amounted to 23,417 units, giving Mazda a 64.8% production share of the mini car market.

The Mazda R360 Coupe was the first car produced in Japan to use a torque converter. The R360 was also the first mini passenger car to be equipped with a four-stroke engine. The engine also used a substantial amount of magnesium alloy. Combined with a light monocoque body, light alloy hood and other weight-saving measures, this made the R360 the lightest car produced in Japan at 380 kg, with concomitant gains in fuel economy and driving performance. The car had a four-wheel independent suspension system employing torsion rubber.

According to Mazda, the stylish and functional coupe form enclosing the 2+2 cabin also led the field in Japan's car design.