Mazda R360
The lightweight pioneer that launched Mazda's passenger car legacy.
- Power
- 16 bhp
- Top speed
- 56 mph
- Est. value
- $30k–$60k
About the Mazda R360
The R360 was Mazda's first passenger car, a tiny 2+2 coupé designed to meet Japan's strict 'kei' car regulations. It was revolutionary for its time, featuring a four-stroke engine when most rivals used two-strokes, and an obsession with weight saving that saw the use of aluminium, magnesium, and acrylic windows. This 'gram strategy' resulted in a kerb weight of just 380kg, making it the lightest car in Japan. Its success was immediate, capturing two-thirds of the kei car market within its first year and establishing Mazda as a serious automotive manufacturer.
Mazda R360 specs
The Mazda R360 produces 16 bhp (12 kW) and 22 Nm (16 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 56 mph (90 km/h).
| Make | Mazda |
|---|---|
| Model | R360 |
| Trim | 0.4 |
| Years | 1960–1966 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | Japan |
| Production | About 65,737 built |
| Engine | 356cc air-cooled 4-stroke V-twin |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 356 cc (0.4 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 16 bhp (12 kW) at 5,300 rpm |
| Torque | 22 Nm (16 lb-ft) |
| Top speed | 56 mph (90 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 380 kg (838 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 42 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Mazda R360 worth?
A typical Mazda R360 is estimated to be worth $30,000 – $60,000 (about £22,000 – £45,000).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Mazda R360 rarity in CarSpot
The Mazda R360 is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 52 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Mazda R360 fun facts
- The R360 was the first Japanese car to offer an optional automatic transmission, which used a torque converter.
- To save weight, the rear window was made of acrylic rather than glass, a technique Mazda still references in its modern lightweight engineering.
- Despite its tiny size, the R360 featured a sophisticated four-wheel independent suspension system using rubber springs and torsion bars.
