hey everyone, i'm looking at getting a project car and want to go with a 1st gen. rx-7. what would you suggest in model and year for a car. i know the gsl-se are quicker out of the factory, but i know the base models can be improved. also, with some basic improvements what are the performance numbers for some different models. i wouldn't want to put alot of money into the car after it is purchased, but if anyone knows what one can do for around $1,000 in upgrades (like hp) that would be great. thanks.

 

oh yeah, what is the average life span of a 1st gen rx7, and one that has been turboed. thanks

 

go with the se. for a 1000 $, first of all racing beat exhaust system, rb header, take off all emmisions ( rat's nest, cat's, resinator, ect.) and a street port. well that's a lil over a 1000$ but def. worth it

 

Well if you are turboing it, with stock internals it all depends on how hard it is driven, offiously a engine not made for boost isn't going to be reliable for a long time. On the other hand Rotarys are alot more reliable (if properly maintained) then people give them credit for. Good luck, they are great cars!

 

1979 SA or a 1973 Opel GT and then do a rotary swap : ).

As for cost effective hp increasing mods: full exhaust, big carb, and a street port if you can afford it.

(psst, GSL-SE's are overrated : )

 

Without porting or installing a turbo(for a more durable and reliable car) and changing the carb/exhaust/etc. what would the hp potential be?

 

around 150 hp with a 12a