Hey, I just thought I'd throw this one out there. What are your opinions for the "Best 1st Generation Model"?

 

85 GSL-SE, no contest there.

Its considered my many rotorheads to be the best rx-7 made out of any generation.

 

I disagree, I like the light weight and simplicity of the base model FBs, especially the 81-83 for the interior.

 

Yeah it depends what do you mean by best*?

GSL SE weights more but has more option than the others with the biggest engine.

 

The monogram models are pretty good... and the Tamiya Savannas really come together well with some patience...

 

If anyone has ever really driven a good, healthy GSL-SE, you'll know that it's an SE, hands down.

 

Whatever you think is the best quality of the specific model. I'm just looking for some opinions here.

 

if you are looking for the fully loaded model get the GSL-SE! if you are looking for a light body to race get a non sunfoof G model, they are much lighter!

 

You mean "S".

 

yes

 

An S with the SE drivetrain/rear diff&axle would be the ultimate 1st gen race machine, IMHO (without going to non-native parts like rack & peanut steering, IRS, etc.)

However, for every day driveability I'll keep my SE with power windows, comfy seats, timeless ergonomic dash, and beaucoup headroom all in the stylish 1st gen bodystyle

 

Japanese spec first gen turbo I is my pick!

 

hey we didnt say we were talking jspec here.

But the SE or the 12aT.... tough choice. I'd like to find out more about the 12aT car itself. I'm guessing it had all the stuff that the SE did, just a different engine.

 

If we're comparing stock to stock then I suppose a 82 S would be my pick. But a 83 S with air oil cooler conversion and a GSL rear end would be my "ultimate" pick. Obviously it wouldn't be the fastest car, but S's are insanly bare and simple to work on. Nice and clean looking too.

 

Must have the bullit proof glass with the optional street sweeper

 

I vote for 84-85 GSL-SE then any model 84-85.

 

I like the 79-80 model RX-7's. I like how they are different and stand out. I also own an 80.

 

<------- me, a '79 owner

 

1981 GSL

are you REALLY going to notice the weight of a sunroof? really? so then take it off! hahahahah

I like the '81-83s. I bought one because of the CARB, and the s2 interior is really cool... heheheh

I still can't figure out how the s1 voltmeter/tach thing works....
at first I was like WOAH tach loops around and goes to 14K! WOWIE! but then I realized voltmeter... hehehhe

 

I'll support that too, light and stylish. I much prefer the indented rear license plate to the all platic design. That said I'd still own any SA/FB I could get my hands on. I was trying to buy a sweet looking '85 GSL today, but I think I talked the guy into keeping it. Owned. Literally.

 

Another vote for the GSL-SE here. I have driven about half a dozen fbs, and those extra 35 horsepower make all the difference. as far as daily drivers go, the option rich, clean lined SE is the winner in my books. My next 7 will be an SE.

I have never driven a jspec turbo fb, but i bet it'd be pretty sweet!

 

It's not just the sunroof, the base model (I don't think they ever called it the "S") came with lighter seats, mirrors, no cruise, lighter (crappy) stereo, no rear speakers, no rear hatch release, lighter window regulator, no rear wiper, and a lighter diff (no LSD). If I remember right it came to almost 100lb.

 

85 GSL-SE is the best model IMO.

~T.J.

 

I second

Definaltely, if you are willing to take the time to do this, however you do not benefit from the "redesigned" rear geometry of the SE...

 

'85 GSL-SE or J-spec GT Turbo