mattsauto

Does anyone know about the LS edition RX7 of 1980? I recently aquired a nice example of one and I'm told it's a rare model. It's white with gold accents and a brown interior with leather seats. Any information about this model would be appreciated!

LongDuck

I have an '80 LS - which stood for Luxury-Sport model. This model had some good improvements over the prior year (the first model year was 1979), and included such engine changes as the electronic ignition complete with ignitors to replace the points and condensor system of the '79 motors. Engine was standard 12A fare, and the LS included air conditioning, leather interior and premium Clarion tapedeck, AM/FM with pushbutton controls, much like seen on old style radio's. This model had special LS badging consisting of a chromed square with 'LS' markings which were on the pillar between the side window glass and rear quarter glass. The rear of the car had the "Rotary Engine" emblem, also in chromed metal, IIRC.

The suspension modifications included a standard rear stabilizer bar and thermal reactor (pre-catalytic converter days). The thermal reactor was a large and heavy addition, but kept emissions at a relatively low level. This was the last year for the 'standoff' bumper style, front and rear, as 81's and later had more integrated bumper designs with plastic caps over the metal bumper itself. Rear light lenses were separated with red brake/tail, yellow turn signal, and white backup lights on each cluster. The center section between lights housed the license plate and lighting on each side to illuminate the plate at night.

Interior designs included round air-control vents at the sides, with standard rectangular vents over the center console. Radio and tapedeck were separate units with a Clarion amplifier located under the passenger side seat. Under the radio/tapedeck units were the switch controls for rear defroster, headlight cleaning switch (manual 'up/down' control), and manually activated power antenna.

An interesting aside to the cockpit gauges was the strange tachometer/voltmeter. This gauge, large and centered, displayed volts with the key in ignition mode just prior to 'start'. Once the engine started, it assumed it's role as a standard tachometer. Speedometer readings terminated at 85mph due to federal restrictions on speed limits and manufacturer markings. The other gauges included oil pressure, and fuel level, along with standard 'idiot' lights below the tach and speedo. Column stalk switches controlled lighting on the left, and windshield washer (front, only) on the right (intermittent delay).

Other engine bay additions were the larger core radiator with oil cooler immediately below the radiator, with lines leading to the engine block. This design was changed to the 'beehive' water/oil cooler in 81 models up until 84, when front-mounted coolers were standardized again. Wheels on the LS were either the plain silver 'waffle' model, or a gold centered 'waffle' model, both with lug pattern of 4x100 spacing. The 79 and 80 models were equipped with lug bolts, which changed to more common lug nuts in 81 and later cars.

This model carried the VIN prefix of SA22C- and you will often see this referenced from users here. The 81 and later models were refered to as 'FB-' and hence that new designation.

I used to race mine in SCCA Solo II competition in CS class, then upgraded suspension springs/shocks/struts/bars to enter CSP - Competition, Street Prepared with larger wheels (14x6, 205/60/14 rubber) and tires. Ran great, and the engine on mine lasted until 212,000 miles before heat and a severe oil leak lead to the demise of the motor. It still sits in my garage, untouched, but not unnoticed. My 84SE gets a lot more attention these days. HTH,

82transam

iTrader: (18)

Got any pics of a LS?

Rotary Revolution

I have the 1980 Anniversary Edition. I hear they are worth a pretty penny, and extremely hard to find!

seanrot

iTrader: (2)

I bought an 1980 RX-7, is there anywaty to tell what classification it is. Without the badges?

Pele

iTrader: (28)

I thought it came in black only.

mattsauto

Thanks for your insightful reply LongDuck, I appreciate the time you must have taken to find out this information. Do you have any idea of the value of this car?
To 82Transam, no I don't have any pics yet, but I'll post them as soon as I can.

MRGSL-SE

the SA I think(my opinion) has ugly tail lights... it doesn't look right to me...

82transam

iTrader: (18)

where in nj are you mattsauto?

LongDuck

Blue Book value will break your heart - these cars only have value to collectors/restorers who are willing to put good money after bad to keep an old car running. There isn't any specific value to the LS model over other SA's, since the 81-on FB are a much more competent car and can be had for only a few hundred more with better features.

If anyone is interested in an 80LS in Phoenix, AZ, please get in touch with me. I've been slowly trying to come to the realization that I need to sell the 80 to make room in the garage for my 84SE and would be more motivated if I had a buyer nearby.

Condition is non-running, straight body, some minor rust at the bottom of the passenger side door where drains were clogged (since fixed), and overall a straight and good example of the LS. Black, brown leather interior (heavily worn, needs reupholstery), and blown apex seal(s) on 12a, RB header.

Hard to sell something that you've put a lot of time into,... good luck with your SA22C LS!

Wankelguy

I agree. Bravo for an excellent post!