Tom Matano passes away
Father of Mazda MX-5 famous for ‘Always inspired’ philosophy
MANILA: The automotive world is mourning for the recent passing of Tsutomu “Tom” Matano. He was 77 years old.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
How old is Tom Matano when he passed away?
Matano was 77 years old.What Mazda vehicle is Matano highly associated to?
Matano was called the Father of the Mazda MX-5.Recognized as the Father of the Mazda MX-5, Matano was born on October 7, 1947 in Nagasaki, Japan then transferred to United States in 1965.
The first-ever product of his “Always inspired” philosophy was the sketch of the premier version of the world’s best-selling sports car (known as the Miata in other markets) in 1984 — five years before it made its inception at the Chicago Auto Show.
Photo from Mazda Philippines Facebook page
Further, he also became the vice president of Design, vice president of Western Operations for Mazda Research and Development in North America and Executive Designer and Director of Mazda North American Operations.
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In 1992-2002, Matano held the executive designer role for Mazda Motor Corporation Japan.
Aside from the MX-5, Matano also played a role in designing the RX-7, which was created by Yoichi Sato.
Also read:
Limited-run Mazda MX-5 35th Anniversary Edition reaches PH market
Mazda MX-5 clinches win at 2024 Kalayaan Cup amid gearbox issue
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