Still the only Japanese manufacture to win Le Mans

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Toyota's latest demise at Le Mans means that Mazda remains the only Japanese manufacturer to triumph in the fabled 24-hour epic.

The win came in 1991, and was anything but predictable. Bertrand Gachot, Johnny Herbert and Volker Weidler prevailed after a grueling fight with Mercedes-Benz and Jaguar with Herbert taking the lead just three hours from the end.

Mazda's win was about as glorious as the sound of its 787B rotary-engine machine.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.