For 45 years and five generations between 1961 and 2006,
Mazda produced the B-Series, a line of compact trucks designed primarily for global markets. Depending on where it was sold, this tough little workhorse wore several names: the Mazda Proceed in Japan, the Mazda Bravo in Australia, and the Mazda Drifter in South Africa.
In the early 1970s, the B-Series was even rebadged by Ford as the Ford Courier, giving Ford a foothold in the compact pickup market that was then being dominated by
Datsun and
Toyota.
By 1985, with the debut of the fourth generation, Mazda officially brought the B-Series to North America. It struck a near-perfect balance of car-like comfort and truck-like utility, offering part-time four-wheel drive and smooth road manners that made it a favorite among enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.
The Model
The Mazda B2600i is powered by a
Mazda-built fuel-injected 2.6-liter inline-four, introduced in 1989 as an upgrade over the older Mitsubishi-built carbureted 2.6-liter. The new engine offered improved horsepower, torque, and overall drivability while maintaining Mazda’s reputation for durability.
It was one of several powertrain options for the fourth-generation B-Series. Earlier models offered a 2.0-liter inline-four (1985–1987) and a 2.2-liter inline-four (1987–1993). Externally, the truck saw only minor cosmetic changes during its North American run—revised bumpers, a new grille design, and a few wheel variations—but the B-Series formula remained the same: simple, reliable, and versatile.
This particular California-owned example recently made its way to Michigan and is impressively rust-free, having never endured harsh winters. The original Bay Blue (code DV) paint still shines bright, with just a few light imperfections that serve as reminders of its honest 30-plus years of service.
Showing 251,000 miles on the odometer, this B2600i remains free from major cosmetic, mechanical, or structural issues. More impressively, it’s almost entirely original, preserved close to factory spec and maintained with care throughout its life.
Highlights
- G6 2.6-liter fuel-injected inline-four engine
- R5MX-D 5-speed manual transmission
- Big Foot® Big O A/T LT205/75 all-terrain tires
- Custom Pendaliner black cargo bed liner
- Toshiba TX-348 AM/FM cassette radio
- New head gasket