The
intelligent and advanced concept of global outsourcing
applied to the development of the Mazda Roadpacer AP offered
a high-quality small volume mass-produced vehicle with
a shortened development time and less cost in terms of
investment. Well - that was the theory.
By 1974 Holden had established itself as a major exporter,
but one of the lesser known exports was that of HJ
Premier bodyshells to Mazda in Japan.
Upon arrival,
the bodyshells were fitted with the 13B Wankel rotary
engine. This hybrid became Mazda's top-of-the-line
domestic model, known as the “Roadpacer”.
Unfortunately the Roadpacer offered poor acceleration,
and the fuel consumption was terrible. Contemporary reports
suggest 9 mpg (26 L per 100 km). That said, once up to
speed the car was able to waft along smoothly in impressive
isolation.
Being a top-of-the-line car meant the price would not
be a bargain - but at a whopping 3.8 million yen (US$10,000)
in 1975 it was very expensive indeed. In fact, this was
about twice the price of a contemporary Mazda Cosmo.
Originally
intended as transport for high-ranking Government officials,
the car was sold in the wake of the first fuel crisis
and was not a commercial success. It was out of production
in three years.
We doubt there are any Roadpacers around today, and therefore
give it a 3 star rating for collectability. Unfortunately
we would always mark it down for practicality, unless
you could find one extremely cheap you would be far better
off sticking with the real Holden of the era!
