BLCKBOX ~ BTCC 1993 Mazda Xedos 6

By 1993 Group A had had been dropped by all major series around the world, causing the FIA to adopt the BTCC’s new rules on an international level as FIA Class II. The new regulations stated any car competing had to possess a minimum of four doors and be at least 4.2 meters long. Engine capacity was still limited to 2.0L and six cylinders, with no turbocharging whatsoever allowed. Just two wheels could be driven and steered, and the cars had to be produced no fewer than 2500 times. Lastly, no aftermarket aerodynamic devices were allowed, making sure all cars retained their factory bodystyle.

With the new rules in place, the European touring car scene was set to experience a major revival. The Group A years had seen running costs spiraling out of control, but the new formula promised a much more affordable form of racing. The lowered costs also revitalized manufacturer interest, with Vauxhall/Opel, BMW, Ford, Renault, Toyota and Peugeot all on board with exciting new designs. Another manufacturer which saw the marketing potential of a souped up family car was Mazda, which had been struggling to find its feet after virtually abandoning their trusted rotary engine in racing.

Mazda’s lack of experience with piston racing engines did little to deter them from entering the BTCC, but they definitely would need some outside assistance to make it work. To this end the company contacted British racing firm Roger Dowson Engineering to run the factory effort. RD Engineering had been in the BTCC since 1987, taking a win and four podiums with a Ford Sierra RS Cosworth.

RD Engineering gained ties with Mazda by agreeing to prepare the cars for the Mazda MX5 UK Cup, which resulted in them being selected by Mazda for the new touring car project. At first the team tried their hand at competing with the 323F in 1992, but the car proved to be less than competitive. For 1993 the decision was made to replace the small hatch with a much bigger car, the new and exotic looking Xedos 6 sedan.