Half-century-old Mazda 818 Coupe turns heads as a rare classic

A half-century-old Mazda 818 Coupe from 1977, imported from Sweden, is captivating onlookers wherever it appears, standing out even among numerous well-maintained classic cars. This Japanese coupe is considered one of the rarest vintage vehicles in this region of Europe.

Its owner, 73-year-old Zvonko Tomičić from Sarajevo, is convinced his Mazda is the sole example of its kind in this part of the continent. He recently showcased the car at a vintage vehicle gathering in Slavonski Brod, where the unusual Japanese coupe generated considerable interest. Many attendees saw it for the first time, and Tomičić patiently answered questions, sharing how he found the car almost by chance.

Tomičić, who owns several classic cars, drives this Mazda to exhibitions and meetings. It is registered, has proper documentation, and is ready to drive. With only 68,000 kilometers, it has low mileage for a 49-year-old vehicle. Everything on the car is original, with no modifications or subsequent work. It hasn't undergone a full restoration but has been preserved because it was rarely driven over the years.

The car is powered by a 1300cc engine paired with a four-speed manual transmission. Tomičić acquired it unexpectedly from a person who had brought it from Sweden in the 1980s. After the owner's death, the car passed through several family members, making the ownership transfer complicated. Tomičić was immediately drawn to it, having never seen such a Mazda before. Although it wasn't expensive, he later gave the previous owner an additional 250 euros after completing the registration and preparation, feeling it was worth more.

Despite sitting neglected in a garage for about fifteen years, the car demonstrated surprising build quality. "I was impressed by how high-quality the materials were. The tires, trim, bumpers – almost everything remained in its original condition," Tomičić said. He did some bodywork because the exterior was neglected, but couldn't find an exact color match, so the roof and hoods remain original. Today, further restoration is unnecessary. He keeps it in a dry garage on a carpet. Besides this Mazda, he owns another Mazda 323 and a Volvo, with his family owning ten cars in total. This rare Japanese coupe has earned him numerous trophies, plaques, and awards at vintage car shows.

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I was impressed by how high-quality the materials were. The tires, trim, bumpers – almost everything remained in its original condition.