quantum18

Hi, recently I've become interested in RX-7s and would like to purchase a generation 1 because I like their appearance more than the later versions. I have some basic knowledge of the RX-7 but I just wondered if anyone could give me some advice on particular things to look for or to ask when buying one of these amazing cars, in order to find the best car possible and avoid possible headaches later on. Thanks

TOUGHGUY

The more desirable cars were the '84 and '85 GSL-SEs. They came with the more powerful 13B engine as opposed to the 12A wich is found in all other 1st gens other than the above. And even then, only the GSL-SE had the 13B as the other models of those years had the 12A. If an '84 or '85 car cannot be found, the GSLs had the 12A but they also had disc brakes on the rear and an LSD read end. Check for the obvious signs of rust in all the usual locations but pay close attention to the rear wheel wells. The best thing to do is remove one of the storage bins behind the seats and take a look in there with a flashlight. As I am Canadian, I am not completely sure but I assume you will need to make it pass emissions tests. A popular thing to do is to remove what is known as the "rat's nest" which, to the uninitiated, looks like a ball of vacume hoses and different colored connectors on the motor to the left side of the carburator. Without this, it may be hard or even impossible to pass an emissions check. Also check for the presence of two distinct catalytic converters as these are often removed because they are very expensive to replace. Verify that the engine idles smoothly after warmup. A hesitating or surging engine can indicate possibly worn internals that may require an engine rebuild. A common problem on the 1st gens are the idler arm bushings. The idler arm assembly is bolted to the inner frame on the right side of the car and is accessible from the engine compartment. The bushings are inexpensive but require regular replacement. The rear springs sag over time and allow the rear of the car to ride low, decreasing suspension travel. If you want a lower ride height, get aftermarket coils as they will have the proper spring rate and won't allow the car to bottom out. Good luck with the shopping.

Toughguy

quantum18

Thanks a lot, if anyone else has anything please add it.
Also what's an FB?

MikeLMR

Its a nickname for the 81-85 Rx7s as the chassis code starts JMZFB the 79-80's had SA22C instead so they are usually refered to as SA's

Mike

quantum18

Do any of the 1st gens. have leather seats?

SoRRoW

Leatherseats were in GSL SE and an option in the GSL,

If your gonna get an first gen,Try to stay with a 84/85

Lighter rotors,axels are bigger/takes more of a beating/if you get a non GSL SE,you have less to convert over to the GSL SE set up.


GSL are alot easier to find,

Options is the leatherseats,

BUT they all came with pwr windows,12A carb/LSD geared at 3.90.

What are you looking to find?

quantum18

I'm not really sure what I want, just a nice 1st gen. with low milage to drive occasionally, which would lead a relatively easy life (no racing or hard driving). I'm just interested in owning one of these rare cars, I didn't think there was that much difference between the 12A and the 13B engines (for what I'll be doing). Also I just thought that leather would be nice and wasn't sure if it was only available on the GSL-SE model. Finding a car like that might be hard since I live in Illinois and the only time i've actually seen one of these cars was when I was on vacation on the west coast.

chastan

Remember another difference between the 13B and 12As on the first gen is that the 13B is fuel injected, versus carburated.

Suparslinc

Another good indication of a well-kept car is no rust on the bottom of the doors. Look on the inside, underneath the rubber door seals. An FB with no door rust is a good find.

quantum18

Thanks a lot I didn't realize the fact that the 13B was fuel injected. If anyone has anything else feel free to chime right in.