We just found and purchased a untouched Aug 78 build "S" model 7. Absolutely stock. really... stock radio stock, aftermarket tires. but stock. Needs new paint but there is not one dent in this car. Dash is solid and the speaker gril on the dash is intact. door cards are about this close to prestine.

But

That damned thermal reactor set up. Assuming that one does not plan on selling, but sees the car as an possible investment... Would a Racingbeat exhaust and a carb kill the potential value in the long run?

Discuss.

 

In my opinion, an exhaust, when done right, would not hurt the value except for the most prudent collector. As parts become virtually impossible or hard to find, suitable replacement parts are ok.

Is there anything wrong with the current exhaust?

The carb on the other hand would kill it for me.

 

Other than the legend of how bad the thermal reactor system is. No the system seems fine minus the muffler.

 

FWIW Rich, my 80 is still chugging along on the original exhaust and reactor just fine at +90Kmi. Not sure what you mean by "how bad". These are way over-built and pretty durable. That said, it is generally agreed that the RB system is a desirable upgrade and better driving experience, and certainly, within the RX7 community, regarded as a valued improvement. If you are concerned with originality (not a factor to be under estimated), why not install the RB and enjoy, and hang on to the reactor bits for a future retro-fit should circumstance require?
Stu Aull
80GS
Alaska

 

Like changing the wheels or door mirrors, if you keep all the parts you remove it shouldn't be a problem. The stock components can all be bolted back on. I'd give the car a chance as is first. It may grow on you or you might not see the need after awhile. The key is too save the parts of course. Maybe take some pictures of how it was all installed before removing.

 

thanks for the replies!

 

Unseen, aftermarket upgrades to exhaust, intake, carb, suspension etc should not devalue the car and
if you keep all the removed pieces should actually enhance value somewhat because it shows you cared.

I know when I went to the Dellorto carb setup and the RE exhaust back around 1990 I didn't keep the
OEM pieces that I removed (they went to the junkyard!) and regret it to this day. I chalk it up to be young
and dumb. Also at the time I saw the car as a toy and didn't think it would be collectible. Fast forward
27 years and now I wish I kept it all so if I wanted to I could reinstall for originality. I can still get the
OEM pieces but at a price now.

 

Reversible mods for the win!

 

I agree with the above. Finding original SA exhaust parts in excellent condition is near unheard of. A Racing Beat system is a perfectly acceptable upgrade and I also believe that it would not devalue to the 7 to a true collector. MY 80 LS has a full RB exhaust on it and I love the sound and the performance increase.

With that said, I would also give the original exhaust a chance and see if you like it before ditching it. If you do, hang on to the original exhaust. Having all of the original parts would add value to the car IMO.

 

Mod, please delete my post, for some without using advanced, it added my post here because I was attaching a photo.

 

(never mind)