If you don’t know it by code, you know it by heart. The Wankel or the Rotary engine from Mazda, is one of Japan’s finest-ever engineering inventions. High-revving, crazy-sounding and furiously rapid 13B has been used in Mazda cars from the 1970s, up until the RX-7 and RX-8 in the 2000s.
The latest 1.3-litre versions were made between 2003 and 2012 and developed 170 kW of power and could rev to 8,000 RPM and higher with proper tuning. This motor has a two-stage turbo system: a small turbo engages in low revs, and a larger one spools up in the higher range, keeping the power going throughout the range.
It’s a rotary engine, so it is loud and not very fuel efficient, but the performance and sound are something almost every petrolhead has a soft spot for. However, despite the potential for performance on track and in a straight line, the 13B Wankel engines have issues with seal wear and overheating. Project car owners and car enthusiasts often get in touch with us to buy used 13B Mazda engines that are in good condition!