This may have some 3rd gen guys upset, so I'll post it in the 1st gen forum.

I've been looking into buying a 3rd gen so I've driven four of them so far. Mileage ranges from 40,000 to 70,000miles. Every time I step out of one, I am very impressed with the power and handling ability, but disapointed in the quality of the car's workmanship and materials compared to my 1st gen. The plastics in the 3rd gens are thinner and feel less expensive, there's always one piece or another that's broken or loose. There's more of the hard plastics in the interior. 3rd gens seem to have more rattles and squeaks too. It makes me happy to get back into my 82 and it has over 180,000 miles on it.

I'm not saying I wouldn't or won't still buy a 3rd gen, it just wouldn't be able to replace my 82. Solid axle, recirculating ball and all, I think I'd still be happier with just the 1st gen than just a 3rd gen. Has anyone else had this kind of experience?

 

it humbles them when they ride in my car... it's nice...

 

I didn't mention earlier, the other quality issue I've been dissapointed in, the engine and turbo external components. The reason I haven't got a 3rd gen yet is that I have yet to find one with good compression. I've looked at cars from bone stock to moderately modified and all were looking at a new engine.

 

yeah... price a new engine.. they aren't cheap for the 3rd gen!!!

 

$5k

 

Third Gens have better longevity when properly modified. Get a third gen put on a haltech, a single turbo, a good intercooler, and a vented hood, and it will last and last - even with boost.

Mazda designed that car to run wayy to hot, and thus cooking it all the time.

All it really needs is good ventilation.

 

That's not really my point. I'm saying that the 1st gen just feels much better put together than the 3rd.

 

I haven't really had any experience with a FD, or a FC for that matter, but working at the gas station has given me the chance to sit in and drive (from one end of the lot to the other, a big 50feet) numerous cars, and the majority of them suck. Even some cars that are classified as 'luxury' seem to be built like ****. Obvioulsy a FB isn't the best built car out there, but it is definatly solid.

 

My `82 GSL is fairly tight as well. The only time it really makes noise is when the ?*%$*?% idler arm bushings finaly disintegrate and the arm bounces around a little.

The reason why these cars always need rebuilds when you see one for sale is because they are so damn fun to drive. It`s like when I rebuild my CR250`s top end to try and sell it. There is no way I can stop myself from going for one more ride..............day after day after day!!! LOL. It`s just stronger than the typical RX7 owner. Like I even had to explain that HERE! You all know what I`m talking about!

Toughguy