Ewan Donaldson

After the launch of the immensely popular first generation Mazda MX-5, any new lightweight roadster was always going to be judged against it. While not exactly the first manufacturer you think of when you think ‘lightweight roadster’, in the early 90s Daihatsu decided to have a go at this whole MX-5 rival thing. Despite the daunting challenge they were taking on board, Daihatsu made one hell of an attempt.

This is one of my new favourite cars I think. It’s gorgeous, obscure and it’s a Daihatsu. It’s perfect.

Picture the scene. You’re planning on building an MX-5 to go racing with, but have decided the stock engine just doesn’t cut it. You need an engine swap, but what to stick in the little Mazda? Why not a rotary? That seems like a solid option. Well, this is why that might not be the genius idea you expect.