JDM Mazda 20B-REW 3-Rotor Twin-Turbo Engine – Eunos Cosmo JC Complete Longblock
The Mazda 20B-REW is a 2.0-liter, triple-rotor twin-turbocharged Wankel rotary engine, widely regarded as the most powerful and desirable rotary engine ever produced for a production vehicle. Produced exclusively for the Eunos Cosmo (JC series) from 1990 to 1995, this engine features three rotors (654cc x 3 = 1,962cc), a factory sequential twin-turbo system, and a level of smoothness and torque that no two-rotor can match . With only approximately 3,550-4,000 units ever produced, the 20B-REW is the holy grail of Mazda rotary engines .
Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
Engine Code | 20B-REW |
Configuration | Triple-rotor Wankel rotary (3 rotors) |
Displacement | 1,962 cc (654 cc x 3 rotors) |
Rotor Housing Material | Aluminum with steel inserts |
Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 |
Induction | Sequential twin-turbo (Hitachi HT-12 turbos) |
Fuel System | Multi-Point Electronic Fuel Injection (MPFI) – 2 injectors per rotor |
Ignition System | Distributorless (2 spark plugs per rotor – leading & trailing) |
Engine Weight (Dry) | Approx. 180-200 kg (397-441 lbs) |
Boost Pressure (Factory) | ~0.7 bar (10 psi) |
Redline | 7,000 RPM (factory) – capable of 8,500+ with upgrades |
Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
Horsepower | 280 PS (276 hp) @ 6,500 rpm (gentleman's agreement) – actual ~300-310 hp |
Torque | 403 N·m (297 lb-ft) @ 3,000 rpm |
True Potential | Estimated 345-350 hp without restrictions |
Top Speed (Unlimited) | 255 km/h (158 mph) |
The 20B-REW is fundamentally a 13B with an additional rotor added to the eccentric shaft. This required a split-shaft eccentric shaft design using taper joints secured with half-moon keys – the same technology proven in Mazda's Le Mans-winning 767 and 787B race cars
Triple-Rotor Configuration: Three 654cc rotors provide 50% more displacement than the 13B-REW, delivering exceptional smoothness and a unique, deep exhaust note that no two-rotor can replicate .
Factory Sequential Twin-Turbo System: The 20B-REW was among the first Japanese production engines to feature a sequential twin-turbo setup. A smaller primary turbo spools quickly for low-end response, while a larger secondary turbo seamlessly takes over at higher RPM for sustained top-end power .
Massive Low-End Torque: With over 380 N·m (280 lb-ft) of torque available at just 1,800 RPM, the 20B-REW launches with authority unmatched by any two-rotor . Peak torque arrives at only 3,000 RPM.
9.0:1 Compression Ratio: Lower than the Renesis (10.0:1), the 20B's compression ratio is ideal for forced induction and high-boost applications.
Six Spark Plugs (2 per rotor): Leading and trailing spark plugs per rotor chamber ensure complete combustion across the long rotary flame front.
2 Injectors per Rotor: Factory electronic fuel injection with dual injectors per rotor for precise fuel delivery under all conditions.
Electronic Boost Control: Factory ECU-managed boost control for consistent power delivery.
Cast Iron Side Housings with Aluminum Rotor Housings: Robust construction capable of supporting 500-800+ horsepower with proper modifications.
The 20B-REW was only available with a 4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission from the factory (EC-AT) . The transmission features three modes:
Normal: Standard automatic operation
Power: Holds gears longer for performance driving
Hold: Manumatic mode for manual gear selection
For manual transmission conversions, the 20B bolts directly to the RX-7 FD's 5-speed manual transmission (bellhousing pattern is shared) . However, a standalone aftermarket ECU (Haltech, Link, Adaptronic, Microtech, MoTeC, etc.) is required for manual conversion, as the factory Cosmo ECU is tuned exclusively for automatic operation .
Vehicle | Compatibility | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Eunos Cosmo (JC series) 1990-1995 | Direct fit | Factory application – all trims (S, E, Type-SX) |
Mazda RX-7 FD3S (1992-2002) | Swap – requires custom mounts and standalone ECU | Most popular 20B swap platform – bolts to FD transmission |
Mazda RX-7 FC3S (1986-1991) | Swap – extensive modifications required | Custom mounts and fabrication needed |
Mazda RX-3 / RX-2 / R100 | Swap – race application | 400+ hp capable |
Universal RWD platform | Swap – aftermarket support available | Popular for high-end rotary builds |
1x Mazda 20B-REW Complete Longblock (3-rotor assembly with rotor housings, side housings, and irons)
1x Intake Manifold with throttle body
1x Complete Sequential Twin-Turbo System (Hitachi HT-12 primary and secondary turbos)
1x Cast Iron Exhaust Manifolds (twin entry)
1x 4-Speed Automatic Transmission (EC-AT with torque converter) – if specified
1x Engine Wiring Harness (Cosmo JC specific – if included)
ECU, alternator, starter, ignition components, intercooler, and accessories.
