there is provided an ignition system for a rotary piston engine comprising first and second ignition means mounted in a rotor housing . the first ignition means is positioned ahead of the second ignition means in the direction of rotation of a rotor . switching means is actuated in response to the output signal of an engine speed sensor and an intake manifold vacuum sensor so that current is supplied to the second ignition means only during specified periods such as during the high engine speed operation and high engine load operation .