🇫🇷 Lemans Classic Legends
🇯🇵 Mazda 787B
One of the most iconic and significant race cars in motorsport history. It is best known for its historic victory at the 1991 24 Hours of Le Mans, where it became the first—and, as of 2026, still the only—car powered by a non-reciprocating engine to win the race.
The car utilized the R26B 4-rotor Wankel rotary engine. It is famous for its unique, high-pitched "scream" that made it instantly recognizable to spectators around the track.
In 1991, chassis number 787B-002 (car #55), driven by Johnny Herbert, Volker Weidler, and Bertrand Gachot, took the overall victory. This was the first time a Japanese manufacturer won the event.
While the 787B didn't have the outright "single-lap" pace of its rivals (like the Mercedes-Benz C11 or Jaguar XJR-12), Mazda’s engineers focused heavily on fuel efficiency and mechanical reliability.
By managing their fuel consumption and pit strategy effectively, they were able to outlast the faster, but more temperamental, competition.
Still sounds absolutely ridiculous 🔥🔥
Amazing footage captured by @clemcsphotos 👏🏻👏🏻
🎥 @clemcsphotos 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
#lemans #cars #japan #endurance