I have an 1985 RX7 GSLSE in desperate need of renovation. The body is rusted, window and other rubber seals crumbling, interior faded, cracking and crubling, radio busted, etc. etc. etc. I have no skill for such work and am looking for a place as close to Atlanta as possible to get it done. Any suggestions?

 

Before you start the money pit, post pics of the rust. Many 1st gens look decent on the outside, yet have so much hidden rust, they are not worth bringing back, unless you don't care how much you spend.

 

Thanks. I'll do it.

 

I agree with torchoid...my 85 gsl-se looks rust free but i took up the sorage box to get the stereo amp out and found some rust....soo i just got some rust preventive paint sanded as much as i could and hosed it down with that paint and its all good now

 

Any bodyshop can do the body and trim work.

 

I fully agree with Trochid, the cost of bringing a car up to show room standard is horrendous. Often the cost of the respray alone costs more than a car in reasonable condition.

If you are going to improve the car, and keep it as your pride and joy for many years, then go ahead. Otherwise cost out what you think it will take, add 50%, then compare it with what you can buy a low mileage good condition gen 1 for.

It's different with a genuine classic, then $25,000 spent may be worth while. The other option is do all the work yourself, it's far cheaper and gives more pride in owning the final product. My wife can not understand the hours I spend polishing when I am excessively paid as a consultant. But it's relaxing and rewarding if not a total cure for gen 1 fever.