There is no place like the world's stage for an automaker to showcase the abilities and talents of their team and products. It was back in 1991 when the Japanese automaker Mazda entered the 24 Hours of LeMans for the 13th time in 18 years. Up until that point their best finish was in 7th place, something they managed to do twice, in 1987 and 1989. However in 1991 things were different; the race car was the al new four rotor 787B being driven by famed racing drivers Johnny Herbert, Volker Weidler and Bertrand Gachot. With the ex Formula One ace Jacky Ickx heading up the team, the mighty 787B managed to finish first at the end of the race twice around the clock, making Mazda the first Japanese automaker to earn an outright victory at the historic race.

As a tribute to that car, Mazda has unveiled the Mazda 2Evil Special Concept at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The compact Mazda features the same significant number 55 and an equally wild Ceramic Grey metallic paint scheme complete with subtle motor sports inspired graphics just like the iconic Group C race car.

The Mazda 2Evil Special Concept features a few modifications to the body, consisting of a more aggressive front chin spoiler and a deeper rocker panels for improved aerodynamics and a lower overall stance, with a lower diffuser in the rear finishing off the ground effects package as well as a bolder rear spoiler mounted at the top of the hatch. Rounding out the compact Mazda 2->ke2501's sports inspired concept are a set of bright green 17 inch wheels wrapped in sticky Yokahama Advan tires.

Press release after the jump.

2010 Mazda 2Evil Special Concept

Specifications
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  • Model: 2010 Mazda 2Evil Special Concept
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Press release

This concept is inspired by the weekend track car but one that can function equally well as an urban commuter. The body has been modified to show a more aggressive front spoiler and a deeper side rocker for improved aerodynamics and lower overall stance.  A strong lower diffuser is added to enhance the rear proportion and more emphasis is placed on the exhaust tip. 

The rear upper spoiler was redesigned for both additional downforce and a race appearance.  The dynamic MAZDA2 body is finished in Ceramic Grey metallic with subtle motorsports inspired graphics. The graphics are finished off with the historic number 55, a tribute to the 1991 Le Mans-winning Mazda 787B race car.  Wheels, mirrors and other details are accented in Spirited Green.  To top it off, the performance and stance are enhanced with 17" wheels, 215/45/17 Yokahama Advan tires, lowered coil-over suspension provided by H&R and Magna performance exhaust.