So, it looks like I won't be getting my dream of a Turbo II, so I'll be driving the '79.

I'm wondering, what are the various stages of upgrades I can do?

I'm talking about at the first the biggest gains for the cheapest costs. I figure I should do intake and exhaust, but my exhaust options seem kind of limited.

I'm looking for a complete engine/tranny swap down the line.. I'm wondering what that'd run?

Oh, it's a 5spd. I think the first thing I need to do is get the whole car tuned up. It was my dad's, and he wasn't exactly very car savvy. So.

Please, I really need some advice. I've been looking, but most of the upgrades are for the later 1st gens and GSL, etc. So..

Thanks a bunch!

By the way, I'm based in Dallas, so I've got some good sources for RX-7 parts.

 

lsd and rear discs are nice
electric fan
exhaust
carb
and so on

 

get rid of the points

 

(slaps self)
dohhhh forgot to mention that one

 

1st thing is say bye bye to points
\
get a electronic dizzy

 

electromotive

 

get rid of the points?

 

the breaker point ignition system, stupid old technology crap that mazda used on 79 cars only, convert it to electronic, much better.

 

you could always try to find a Turbo 2 13B and swap that in

 

By all means replace the distributor with the electronic unit, but be sure to get a 1980 or above, as the '80 electronic ignition used a remote-mounted ignitor arrangement that was prone to triggering problems. A good set of metal-conductor wires is a good addition as well, and with the distributor upgrade, will give you a quick 5hp. The next thing you can do is get the Racing Bleat header specific for '79-'80 (SA model) cars, as well as a mini-presilencer (can be added later, if $ is tight). Once you do away with the dreaded thermal reactor, all the rest of the emissions crap, as well as the "rat's nest", can be done away with. That makes the motor so much easier to work on, too. The RB header will bolt right up to the stock heat exchanger on the SA, or if you get the mini presilencer, the mini presilencer bolts directly to the header at the forward end, and the rear of the presilencer bolts up to the stock connecting pipe.
Pretty easy to install once the thermal reactor is off. Save the top piece of the thermal reactor shroud and it can be used as a heat-shield, and makes a good place to put the carburetor preheater hose as well. -WG