Hey, I'm new here. I'm wondering if you guys could give me a little info on just how quick a base model 1st generation RX-7 is. The reason I'm asking is because I'm looking at one on Auto Trader right now that seems to be in top shape, 65k on original motor and it has a nice grey paint job too. The picture looks perfect.

http://autotrader.com/findacar/vdeta...r=&cardist=348

Anyway, I'm wondering just how well these cars performed. My brother used to have one but he's full of ****. He told me his old 85' RX-7 with an automatic transmission did 0-60 in 5.5 seconds, and I just don't believe that.

So any info on 0-60 times/top speed/handling/braking for stock 1st gen would be much appreciated.

 

in stock form, 0-60 isnt 5.5 seconds. handling is what these cars were made for, but it's pretty easy to get these car really quick. i dont think you'll have any regrets going with that car. it looks to be in great shape and these rex's are something you tend to bond with after a while.

 

All the 1st gens are fairly quick. nothing to brag about stock, but a few simple modifications can do wonders. also, the fact that they weigh less than 2400 pounds helps . stock they will do 0-60 in about 8.7 seconds. as far as handling, its hard to top any rx7 due to their almost perfect 50:50 weight distribution. however, being so old, chances are that the suspension needs a little work. it is definately an awsome car. if had the money i would buy another one, or maybe 2 more, or 3

 

A stock FB usually runs 0-60 in about 9 sec. Not what you would call a dragster. However the beauty of an Rx7 is not its acceleration(though they can be made to eat C5s), The weight of the rotary engine allows almost perfect weight distribution thus excellent handling. The 20 year old worn out suspension won't impress you, but with new shocks, springs and bushings...hhhohhh look out

Good luck

 

These cars are slow off the line - low torque, especially in the 12A models. However, like the Miata the fun comes not from having a sled that's first across the crosswalk when the light turns green, but from having a small, nimble, tossable sportscar in the English handling tradition

 

if this is your first time with an rx-7...make sure you check for all the usuals on a car like this...

oil leaks and bin rust are quite common...

but i agree with everyone else...handling is very impressive for such an old car...

 

With RB exhaust, a bigger carb and some weight reduction, this car can make 0-60mph in 7,5 easily

 

Well, the 0-60 times vary with which model you have. I read that a 12a equiped car (like the one you are looking at), will do 0-60 in about 10 seconds. That is on 101 hp. Now, the GSL-SE will do 0-60 in about 8 seconds due to about 34 more horses in the form of a 13b engine. Seeing that, If you add about 40 more horsepower to your 12a (take about $1500), you can break into the 7.5 second range and beat most late 70's, 80's, and early 90's sports cars and absolutely slaughter most ricers without turbos, nitrous, or superchargers.

 

Mine has taken down SEVERAL LS1's

 

Thanks a lot for the info guys. I really appreciate how friendly and knowledgeable you are.