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.