Prodrive link up with Mazda

[pink69]

Prodrive are set to build a LMP for Mazda's return to LM in 2004. The Mazda deal hasn't been officially confirmed but a deal with a major manufacturer is on the cards. What isn't yet clear is if the prodrive deal is LMP only or will include the RX-8 for the GT category. The deal has come about through the sucess of the 550 Marenello in the FIA GT championship. so, 2004 is looking good, what about 03 though?

[MaxSport]

I saw that mentioned in Autosport- so I guess it must be true.

[Nordic]

It will be great to see Mazada back. All being part of the ford group, does this have any effect on any hoped for Aston Martin return?
Will Prodrive now stop the 550 program I wonder.

[Aysedasi]

I just hope they retain those lovely green and orange Renown/Charge colours!

[Muzza]

Originally posted by Nordic
It will be great to see Mazada back. All being part of the ford group, does this have any effect on any hoped for Aston Martin return?

I understand that Ford Headquarters in Dearborn have decided that there is no way that Aston Martin is going to be involved any motorsport activity whatsoever. This has been decided about one-and-a-half year ago and it is said to be a "irreversible and ultimate decision".

My source is an engineer working for Ford Motorsport.

[Lee Janotta]

Aston Martin already has all the image it needs. Mazda, though, can really only race in a venue where it can use it's trademark rotary engines. That rules out everything except sports cars.

_Please_ let them do a 675... It just makes sense to put such a light, compact engine in a light, compact prototype!

[SFonseca]

So I was wrong. If Prodrive are set to build a LMP for Mazda's return, What is the future manufacturer for Oreca??

[kmchow]

Originally posted by Lee Janotta
Mazda, though, can really only race in a venue where it can use it's trademark rotary engines. That rules out everything except sports cars.

Or touring cars. Mazda NA has been extremely active in touring cars these past 2-3 years, supporting teams racing the Speed World Challenge, Touring class. Previously they raced a Mazda 626 (Xedos??). In late '01/ and now '02, they have switched to the Mazda Protege (323/Familia). They are becomeing more and more competitive against the BMW E46s and even the famed Honda/Acura Integra Type R!

[egor]

Mazda raced in the BTCC in the 90's with the 323, and then with the Xedos, but gave up after only maintaining a mid field position.

[cybersdorf]

Originally posted by Lee Janotta
Aston Martin already has all the image it needs.

They said that about Bentley 50 years ago.
This is what comes from a few groups controlling too many marques.

[SL]

With Aston back as the 007 car and thus ousting BMW they have probably spent their car and budget allowance for the next 5 years. But lets face it the 007 Bond car MUST be the fastest car in the World. Stop.

BTW Who else saw the Zagato version in last weeks Sunday Times.

Simon