The Unsung Hero of Japanese Grand Tourers
Grand tourers (GTs) represent a pinnacle of automotive design, blending high-speed performance with luxurious comfort. Throughout history, certain GT models have left their mark on both the performance and luxury car markets. Today, enthusiasts enjoy a wide array of GTs that deliver precisely what they promise. From European icons like the Aston Martin DB11, Mercedes-AMG S63 Coupe, and Ferrari F12 to American muscle like the Ford Mustang GT and Chevy Camaro Z28, the GT landscape is filled with well-known and celebrated models. However, alongside these familiar names exist often-overlooked, forgotten models that deserve far more attention. One such car is a remarkable JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) model that has slipped through the cracks – the Mazda Eunos Cosmo.
This article will delve into this exceptional Japanese GT, exploring its performance credentials, its unique position in the GT market, the luxurious features it introduced to the segment, and its current market value.
A Bold Gamble: Mazda’s Entry into the Luxury GT Market
The 1990-1995 Mazda Eunos Cosmo, a striking sports coupe with a sleek body, long hood, short rear deck, and low stance, was designed to compete with the established European dominance of the GT market in the 1990s. Today, it stands as a rare and potentially collectible import.
With a fully-loaded price exceeding $60,000 in today’s money, the JC Series Cosmo was not cheap, even in Japan. However, it boasted an exceptional interior design, two potent powertrain options, an air of sophistication expected of a luxury GT, and technology that was ahead of its time. Launched during Japan’s economic “Lost Decade,” when asset prices were plummeting, the creation of a luxury GT was a bold move.
Mazda persevered, creating a car that combined style, luxury, comfort, and high-tech features. Between 1990 and 1995, models were sold at prices ranging from ¥3.3 million to ¥5.5 million. Considering the average salary in the 1990s ranged from ¥370,000 to ¥408,864, the Eunos Cosmo was a car for the affluent. Consequently, sales were limited; only 8,875 units were sold during its five-year production run.
Performance Credentials: Power and Engineering Prowess
The Eunos Cosmo’s performance capabilities are notable. The car’s engine options showcase Mazda’s engineering prowess, particularly its famous Wankel rotary engine. Compared to rival GTs of the 1990s, the Cosmo performs admirably with a potent engine and relatively light curb weight.
The Cosmo offered two engine choices. The 1.3-liter turbocharged twin-rotor rotary engine produced 235 horsepower and 217 lb-ft of torque. The more powerful variant featured a 2.0-liter twin-turbocharged rotary engine, delivering 280 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a four-speed automatic transmission and powered the rear wheels.
1990-’95 Mazda Eunos Cosmo Performance Specifications
- Engine: 1.3-Liter Turbocharged Rotary / 2.0-Liter Twin-Turbocharged Rotary
- Transmission: Four-Speed Automatic / Four-Speed Automatic
- Horsepower: 235 HP / 280 HP
- Torque: 217 LB-FT / 295 LB-FT
- Driveline: Rear-Wheel Drive / Rear-Wheel Drive
- 0-60 MPH: 6.8 Seconds / 5.5-6 Seconds
- Top Speed: 112 MPH (Limited) / 158 MPH
The 20B-REW rotary engine in the most powerful Cosmo variants was a landmark achievement for Mazda. It was the first car to feature a three-rotor engine. With the addition of two Hitachi turbos, the 20B-REW was powerful and known for its smooth operation, comparable to a V-12 engine. Both engines featured twin-sequential turbos, a first for Japanese-made models.
Techy Features & Luxurious Comfort
The Eunos Cosmo was a pioneer in automotive technology and luxury. In 1990, it became the first production car to feature a color touchscreen display. This touchscreen controlled air conditioning, the audio system, and, most notably, the navigation system. The Cosmo was also the first production car with built-in GPS navigation, a built-in TV, and a phone. These features were impressive, even compared to higher-end European GTs.
The cabin of the Cosmo was a haven of comfort. The interior featured full-leather center console upholstery, power-adjustable leather bucket seats, climate control, ample legroom, and an LCD instrument cluster. Two suspension packages, a sport-tuned ‘S’ package with a multi-link front and rear suspension, and an ‘E’ elegant setup designed for a more comfortable long-distance cruise, were offered.
Finding a Cosmo Today
Importing a Cosmo into the U.S. is now possible. Although finding one in good condition requires searching within Japan, the rarity of the Eunos Cosmo adds to its desirability. Online auction sales over the last five years have averaged around $19,180, with individual prices ranging between $10,500 and $27,218.
In conclusion, the Mazda Eunos Cosmo stands as a special GT, deserving of more recognition. Its blend of performance, unique rotary engine options, advanced technology, and luxurious appointments make it a standout from the era. Despite its limited production and niche status, the Eunos Cosmo represents an innovative and compelling choice for car enthusiasts seeking an alternative to the more common European and American GTs.
