Even though it's a modern looking car, I get the impression Mazda designers intentionally put in quite a few classic car design references. The bulging front fenders, the slot behind the front wheel well, the round taillights, even interior door handles all remind me of cars from the late fifties through the sixties. Any opinions?




Wheel well slot.





Bulging fenders.







The opening on the side reminds me of the RX's interior door handles. A few days ago I saw a car with an opening that was nearly identical in shape to the RX's, but I forgot what car, so this will have to do.

 

They say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.

 

And they imitated only the best.

 

I read that Mazda took some Italian design elements, but the book did not advise which elements. Mazda did however mention that they designed the car to look as though it were in motion, even when standing still. I think they did a very good job!