Rotary engines have a lot going for them. They're compact, lightweight, mechanically simple compared with conventional piston engines, and capable of delivering power with remarkably smooth operation. They also produce a distinctive exhaust note and have earned a loyal following among enthusiasts, particularly fans of Mazda's legendary RX-7 sports car.
On paper, it's easy to understand why engineers once believed the rotary could become a serious alternative to the traditional internal combustion engine. Yet rotary-powered cars remain a rarity. Mazda, which discontinued its rotary-powered sports cars in 2012, brought the engine back in a very different role as a generator for the MX-30 e-Skyactiv R-EV.
