Arias Pistons 12.5:1 Compression 82mm Bore Honda B-series on 2040-parts.com

Mazda's rotary engine stalled, not forgotten

Development of the next-generation rotary engine from Mazda Motor Corp., first unveiled three years ago, is making slow progress despite missing emissions targets. A top Mazda powertrain executive said today that the 1.6-liter rotary engine, called the 16X, is about 30 percent more fuel-efficient than the current rotary engine used in the RX-8 sporty car. In fact, the 16X so far performs slightly better than Mazda's standard two-liter gasoline engine, said Mitsuo Hitomi, general manager of the Japanese carmaker's powertrain division.

Split Camaro showcases 'quality' for State Farm agents

From fastidiously original to trailer-park fantasy, State Farm Insurance has merged two ends of the car-repair spectrum in one 1968 Chevrolet Camaro convertible. Don't fret for the “destruction” of this car, as it was sourced from a totaled vehicle that ended its first life via an engine fire. The purpose of the build is to educate insurance adjusters on the various levels of quality in repairs, restorations or modifications that find themselves littered throughout the collector-car world.

A look at Toyota future products

Toyota has slipped behind competitors in drivetrain technology and now must play catch-up against the likes of Ford, Hyundai and Mazda. Much of Toyota's lag stems from engineering resources being diverted by the unintended acceleration crisis and other quality miscues in the past two years. Now expect Toyota to focus more on turbocharging and direct injection, and it may even bring a couple of diesels to the United States as part of midcycle changes.