Auto Appreciation: The Mazda RX-7 A Forgotten JDM Classic
Today’s Auto Appreciation focuses on the Mazda RX-7, an often forgotten JDM classic that deserves continued love and admiration.
The Mazda RX-7 is a rear-wheel drive, front-mounted engine sports car using the famous Wankel rotary engine. Surviving three generations and becoming a classic JDM sports car that few other models have matched, the RX-7 is undoubtedly a memorable model worthy of some auto appreciation.
As of 2021, there are no rotary engines on the market, and with the death of the RX-7’s successor, the RX-8, the market may have seen the last of these wonder engines. Luckily, Mazda took the time to invest in the odd engine arrangement; otherwise, we may never have seen the RX-7! Here’s hoping fans of this forgotten JDM classic create enough havoc that Mazda revisits the rotary and the RX line. Do we hear RX-9?
History of the Mazda RX-7
Mazda was looking to replace the Savanna RX-3 with a new, sportier model to keep up with its competitors. The result was the first generation or Series 1 Mazda RX-7. Featuring a rotary engine similar to that found in the RX-3, the RX-7 was able to help Japanese citizens avoid costly road taxes. In the United States, it opened the door to small, enjoyable JDM sports cars.
The second-generation (known as series 2) began in 1981 and ran through the 1983 model year before Series 3. The popular FD was introduced for 1984 and would run through the 2002 model years. The Mazda RX-7 Series 2, known as FB in the US, saw a bump in power from the rotary engine and some styling upgrades. By Series 3, the FD would obtain a turbo, allowing the rotary to produce 261hp on the A-Spec trim!
Reviews & Awards
The Mazda RX-7 was a popular JDM sports car. Amassing over 800,000 produced units over its lifetime, the RX-7 is without a doubt a hit, but what is equally important is the accolades this sporty 2+2 received. In addition to receiving critical praise upon its debut, the RX-7 received further publication awards such as MotorTrend’s 1986 Car of the Year award!
Further, The RX-7 placed on Car and Driver’s top ten list five times and won over Playboy magazine when pitted against the Dodge Viper. Plus, a handful of other publications have given the RX-7 high praise for its styling and performance.
The Mazda RX-7 On the Track
Mazda’s RX-7 wasn’t just popular and capable on the streets; it was also a winner on the track. In 1979, racing models took home first and second at the 24 Hours of Daytona. For an incredible ten straight years, the RX-7 model would win IMSA’s GTO championship!
Track versions of the RX-7 have been featured in several other high-profile races, such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and 24 Hours of Spa, where it would take down the BMW 530i and the Ford Capris. The RX-7 even appeared in the World Rally Championship, placing 3rd in 85 and 1st in 87 and 89.
JDM Classic On the Market
The third-generation Mazda RX-7 is considerably rarer than the first two generations. Despite having hundreds of thousands of units, unmodded examples are not easy to come by, and when you do, expect to spend upwards of $50,000!
With a bit of research, some dedication, and flexibility, options do exist for models less than $10,000! Though these examples may not be ideal, they can be ripe for modifications!
Modifying a Forgotten JDM Classic
JDM cars are excellent modification platforms. As a prime example of a JDM car, the Mazda RX-7 provides plenty of opportunities to fine-tune every aspect of this car, including the engine performance and the overall body look! The aftermarket support for the RX-7 is deep, and the internet knowledge base will answer every possible question.
Of course, Series 3 FD’s look the coolest with some modifications, but don’t discount the older models. Many of the Series 2 FBs look fantastic with some additional tuning and adjustments!
Rivals of the Mazda RX-7
The Mazda RX-7 wasn’t alone in being a superb sports car from Japan. It had rivals. And its competitors were good, too! Additionally, if one had a bit more cash, a luxury brand from Europe could stand as a highly competitive rival!
In the JDM world, the Toyota Supra stands as the Mazda RX-7s arch-rival, though the Nissan Zs were also quite competitive. From Europe, the RX-7 competed with Porsche’s 924/944.
Auto Appreciation: The Mazda RX-7
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It is pretty sad to see that the rotary engine cars Mazda produced have died out, and the RX-7 was perhaps the best example of the rotary engine. The RX-8, while excellent, was never able to capture the several decades of glory that the RX-7 enjoyed.
As we continue to look at JDM cars, we have gained an auto appreciation for the Mazda RX-7, a forgotten JDM classic. The price on the used market, the modifications, and the awards prove that the RX-7 is worth every ounce of appreciation!
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