I don't think that "How Stuff Works" is right here (blasphemy, I know)
 

I really like howstuffworks.com, but I just saw the animation (link below) that breaks down the rotary engine. Perhaps I'm wrong here, it's happened before, but it's the flywheel and counterbalance on the other end of the output shaft (ie near the transmission)?

http://www.howstuffworks.com/rotary-engine2.htm
(also at http://www.revolutionrotary.com/)

Please correct me if I'm wrong. But if not, affirm my idea. Great website, either way.

yeah they should be on the other side. either that or the spark plugs could be moved.

if you open it up the oil pump is on the right hand side though... so it's the plugs you gotta move to the other side. either that or just look into a mirror.

I dont know if it is right, but damn that is a cool article.. if you check out the links they got a bunch of history stuff.... Apparently they developed a flying car out of a Rotary Engine... lol....

Good point. I think they swapped the "sides" of the engine ie. ports vs. spark plugs.

Maybe it's a depiction of a Honda developed rotary where it also spins counter-clockwise? :D