Mazform

Putting a piece of automotive history back where it belongs! This rare 1972 Road Test Magazine "Import Car of the Year" award grill emblem was originally installed on this Mazda Capella GSII when it was purchased brand new in Hiroshima back in 1973—sitting exactly like the one installed back then. Decades later, the grille has been fully cleaned up, and there’s no better feeling than bolting this piece of history back on

Some cars are special... and then there's the Holy Grail.

After a journey that included more than a little drama, the GS2 Capella has finally arrived home.

This incredibly rare survivor spent 40 years in Hiroshima, where it was cherished, carefully maintained and regularly enjoyed. Along the way it attended a number of special Japanese car events, and I'll be sharing more of that history in future posts. Arrived in Australia 13 years ago imported by a prominent car enthusiast.

It isn't a perfect car—and I wouldn't want it to be. The marks, chips and scars it wears are part of its story. They remind us that this GS2 wasn't hidden away; it was driven, loved and preserved for future generations to appreciate.

I've included some photos from yesterday after its arrival, along with images from its life in Japan and original period brochures that showcase what made the GS2 so special: the blueprinted 125 bhp twin-distributor 12A rotary, 5-speed gearbox, distinctive GS2 grille, unique rear quarter badging and beautifully appointed interior.

Produced for only a brief period, the GS2 represented the ultimate evolution of the rotary Capella. The ultra expensive original YSA Yokohama light weight wheels fitted at time of purchase add to its provenance.

I'm incredibly proud to become part of this car's history and can't wait to share the next chapter of its journey with everyone.

Finding five NOS wheel caps for some of my favourite Mazdas was exciting enough. But unwrapping them from Japanese newspapers dating back to the late '60s and early '70s was like opening a time capsule. A wonderful little glimpse into the world these cars came from. Sometimes it's the small details that make this hobby so rewarding.

Interesting to see the unveiling of the new Ferrari Luce and reflect on another Italian-inspired "Luce" from 60 years ago — the Mazda Luce. Both drew heavily from Italian design influence, yet the outcomes couldn't be more different in their form.

The Mazda Luce of the 1960s, penned by Bertone, brought elegant European styling to a Japanese family car, while the new Ferrari Luce showcases the latest expression of Italian performance and luxury.

Two cars sharing a name and Italian design roots, separated by six decades, yet each a fascinating reflection of its era.

Lovely late autumn evening with only a few days until the official start of winter. With rain forecast every day this week, it was too nice not to take the little red AZ-1 out for a blast before winter sets in.

And of course… stopping for a few photos was always going to be tempting.

Not often you come across not just one, but two rare Mazda R360s in any condition.

These two are particularly special—Australian-delivered cars, with only 41 ever making it to our shores in the early 1960s.

The one on the left, “Rose,” is a car I’ve shared before and is believed to be Mazda’s very first passenger car to arrive in Australia back in 1961. Just a quick update—she’s still deep in the process of extensive metalwork, with a lot of fabrication required to bring her body back to its former glory. It’s proven to be a much bigger job than expected.

She currently sits alongside one of the last R360s to arrive here—a 1964 model—which has become an invaluable factory reference point for Rose’s restoration.

There’s still a long road ahead, but we know the end result will be worth it. Here’s a look at some of the recent progress, and a glimpse of what we’re aiming for once she’s complete.

Beautiful autumn day, blue skies, and the perfect excuse to take the little red AZ1 out for a fun blast.

After a tough few weeks recovering from minor surgery, this was exactly what I needed — a small escape to clear the mind, breathe, reflect, and be grateful.

Sometimes it’s the simple things… an open road, crisp air, and a car that always makes you smile.

Feeling thankful for the recovery, the sunshine, and the chance to enjoy days like this.

This past weekend at the Adelaide Motorsport Festival 2026 was another incredible celebration of motorsport. The wet weather may have dampened the crowd numbers, but it certainly didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of those who attended.
It’s a truly unique event where you can get up close to an amazing variety of racing machines — from historic Formula One cars and V8 Supercars to classic race cars and superbikes.
The Mazda Cosmo Sport from the Mazform collection was invited as a display vehicle for Shannons Insurance, and it drew plenty of attention throughout the weekend — alongside many other stunning Mazdas proudly on show.
A personal highlight for me was being part of a rotary photo shoot on a section of the old Adelaide Street Circuit Grand Prix track. With rotary legend Mad Mike Whiddett attending this year’s festival, it was a special moment for all of us rotary enthusiasts.
True to form, Mike didn’t disappoint. Known worldwide for his passion for building and driving extraordinary rotary-powered machines, he was incredibly generous with his time — sharing his story and enthusiasm with everyone around him.
Watching his driving skills firsthand in two of his incredible creations, MADBUL and MADMAC, was simply awe-inspiring.
A fantastic weekend surrounded by amazing machines, passionate people, and the unmistakable sound of rotary power.

When your daughter has great taste… she chooses a 1966 Mazda Luce for her school formal.
She proudly chose this stunning classic to take her and her friends in true 60s style. Her dress was a perfect match to the Luce’s factory “Golden Fleece” metallic — an elegant pairing that turned heads.
The Luce’s design was a nod to the beautiful Mazda S8P prototype that inspired its production styling, and you can see that influence in every graceful line.
Parked for some years, she needed a little love to make the formal… and leaving it to just four days before the big event wasn’t my wisest decision (as my daughter kindly reminded me!). But somehow, we got there.
And I couldn’t be prouder.
My beautiful daughter and this beautiful car both looked absolutely stunning. The Luce exceeded my expectations — it’s incredible how a 60-year-old car can still look and drive like that. There’s not much that compares to its silky-smooth gear changes and that airy, unobstructed glasshouse view.
As it was advertised back in its production days… she truly is “The Leading Lady.”
A truly memorable occasion for a truly remarkable pair.