Hidden Gems
One of the first major automotive shows covered globally is the Tokyo Auto Salon, annually held in January. It serves as the opening salvo that the new year has begun for auto enthusiasts. Given the scale of the show and major manufacturers taking part, it’s no small wonder that some incredibly unique builds are often overlooked.
Tucked away in one of the many event halls and displays is a car now just hitting the spotlight, something worthy of not just attention but proper recognition. Someone has just modified an Autozam AZ-1, and it isn’t the usual build, either.
Wide, Rotary Boy
Built as a project by the Japanese tuner Goda Bankin, this red Autozam is making waves because of its (very) wide-body exterior modifications. Specifically, it seems Goda Bankin wanted to make the Autozam’s stance imposing by giving it one of the biggest fender flares ever seen, let alone on a car as small as the AZ-1. A closer inspection of the photos also reveals a revised front fascia and larger rims. There aren’t any clear interior shots, but it has aftermarket seats and steering wheel updates.
For the uninitiated, Autozam is one of Mazda‘s brands that specializes in kei cars, with the AZ-1 one of its coolest creations from the ’90s.
The AZ-1 has always had its fair share of cult following; it was built as a sort of super mini supercar designed as a kei car. At the time of its relevance, it went up against other notable two-door kei cars like the Cappucino, and the kei car classification means the OEM spec engine was regulated to just 657cc. Goda Bankin decided that a motor swap was in order; it decided to go with something just as unique as the car itself – a rotary engine.
One-Off Showcase
Not all the engine specs have been publicized; all we know about this build is that it uses the legendary 13B rotary engine with upgraded fuel injection and an ECU. It also has the rotors from a Mazda RX8, a 6-speed transmission from a Mazdaspeed 3, and a special-order clutch and diff. No power output has been announced, but it should be considerably more than the stock engine. Lastly, the brakes and the suspension were also modified, hinting maybe at possible performance testing?
As unique as this build is, sadly, Goda Bankin says it will remain a showcase piece only and isn’t even road-legal, let alone for sale to the public.
