What Cars Use Rotary Engines?

Rotary engines are a type of internal combustion engine that uses a triangular rotor instead of a piston to convert pressure into rotational motion. This design offers several advantages over traditional piston engines, including smoother operation, higher power output, and a more compact size. However, rotary engines also have some drawbacks, such as higher fuel consumption and emissions, and a shorter lifespan.

As a result of these pros and cons, rotary engines have been used in a relatively small number of production vehicles. The most famous of these is the Mazda RX-7, which was produced from 1978 to 2002. Other cars that have used rotary engines include the Mazda RX-8, the NSU Ro 80, and the Citroën GS Birotor.

Advantages of Rotary Engines

Smoother operation: Rotary engines do not have the reciprocating motion of pistons, which can cause vibrations and noise. This makes for a smoother and more refined driving experience.
Higher power output: Rotary engines can produce more power than piston engines of the same displacement. This is because the triangular rotor design allows for a more efficient combustion process.
More compact size: Rotary engines are more compact than piston engines, which makes them ideal for use in small vehicles or where space is limited.

Disadvantages of Rotary Engines

Higher fuel consumption: Rotary engines typically consume more fuel than piston engines. This is because the combustion process is less efficient, and because the rotors need to be lubricated with oil.
Higher emissions: Rotary engines also produce more emissions than piston engines. This is because the combustion process is less complete, and because the oil that is used to lubricate the rotors burns off.
Shorter lifespan: Rotary engines typically have a shorter lifespan than piston engines. This is because the rotors and seals can wear out more quickly.

Cars That Have Used Rotary Engines

The following is a list of cars that have used rotary engines:

Mazda RX-7 (1978-2002)
Mazda RX-8 (2003-2012)
NSU Ro 80 (1967-1977)
Citroën GS Birotor (1973-1975)
Mercedes-Benz C111 (1969-1970)
Mazda Cosmo (1967-1995)
Mazda Luce (1969-1991)
Mazda Savanna (1971-1978)
Mazda Eunos Cosmo (1990-1996)
Mazda Millenia (1994-2002)

Conclusion

Rotary engines offer several advantages over traditional piston engines, including smoother operation, higher power output, and a more compact size. However, they also have some drawbacks, such as higher fuel consumption and emissions, and a shorter lifespan. As a result, rotary engines have been used in a relatively small number of production vehicles. The most famous of these is the Mazda RX-7, which was produced from 1978 to 2002.