History is important. Not just for the names and the dates but for the lessons it carries. Mazda's hundredth year in business is right around the corner. We thought we'd take a trip back to the past and reflect on how we arrived at the modern phenomenon that is Mazda in America.


January 30, 1920 the Toyo Cork Kogyo Co., LTD, began with humble origins in Hiroshima Japan.Â
Mazda fought and struggled for nearly 10 years through unimaginable difficulties, surmounting numerous obstacles to become worthy of attracting theÂ
attention and guidance of major business leaders in Hiroshima.Â
Building precision machinery evolved to building a unique and interesting three wheeled truck which became a smashing success. It wasn't until 1984, however, that the company formally adopted the name branded on every one of its cars, "Mazda", setting in stone a legacy that would change the automobile world.Â
The 1960's hinted at Mazda's willingness to apply monumental engineering efforts in unique ways when creating their cars.

For instance, the development of the Wankel rotary engine in Europe was quickly recognized among Mazda engineers and leadership as a key way of differentiating itself from other Japanese auto companies.Â
Coming from a country that was known to be very isolated, Mazda broke international ground before many others, forging a strong relationship with top German car makers.Â
Many have tried, but even big names like Corvette failed to replicate the success of the spectacular Mazda take on the rotary engine design.Â
Around this time, Mazda began to rapidly to export its vehicles abroad, also carrying excellent piston-powered models delivered to roaring enthusiasm in the US, particularly to our Mazda dealership near Medford. Just kidding, we weren't around in the 60s yet!
Mazda's excellent cars entered into the US market with great enthusiasm and became highly popular for their combination of power and light weight when compared to piston engine competitors that relied on heavy, bulky engines to produce similar amounts of power.
Everyone wanted a Mazda and demand rapidly expanded, Mazda made the Mazda rotary pickup truck and a station wagon to meet the demand.

Following the 1973 oil crisis, Mazda adapted by shifting focus to creating improved piston engine designs and producing a variety of four-cylinder models.
Classic models such as the Mazda MX-5 and Miata appeared during this time to worldwide acclaim, and the Roadster made a name for itself popularizing the idea of a small, well-built, sports car.Â
Mazda also had the foresight and ingenuity to partner with the Ford motor company, which ultimately helped further develop a few of its own best-selling vehicles.Â
Changing economic conditions around the turn of the century lead to major restructuring of the Mazda company from the ground up, and expanding Mazda's new product lineup into what it has evolved into today.

 Mazda ventured into further endeavors such as alternative fuel and motorsports, through its division known as Mazdaspeed, where we have experienced substantial success with multiple engine designs. It speaks pretty loudly that more Mazdas are raced every week than any other car brand.Â
Our Mazda dealership in Medford offers revolutionary technology, including fuel efficient SkyActiv gasoline technology and many more innovations only found in a Mazda. After all, North America has evolved into Mazdas biggest market and our dealership has determined to offer you the best.Â
But come see for yourself at our Mazda dealership. Some things are better seen than read.Â
Smith Haven Mazda, our Mazda Dealership near Medford, is located at 827 Jericho Turnpike St. James, NY 11780. Come in today and experience the Mazda legacy for yourself.Â
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Contact
Smith Haven Mazda
827 Middle Country Rd
Saint James, NY 11780
- Sales: 877-216-6379
- Service: 866-260-2507
- Parts: 877-224-2056
Hours
- Monday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Tuesday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Wednesday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Thursday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Friday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- Saturday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Sunday 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM