Last February, I reunited with my RX-7 roots after seeing a 1985 GSL-SE for sale locally, and cheap. I had a few FCs, including a 400whp AE, 10-12 years ago, when I used to post often on this board. I wasn't necessarily looking for another, but felt like jumping on this opportunity.

The car was in rough shape, but the drivetrain and paint were fresh, and I guess I saw some potential in it. Most people would simply describe it as a death trap. The steering was more of a suggestion of direction, the brake hydraulics were clearly not fully functional, and everything needed some TLC.

Driving it home reminded me of the familiar Top Gear episodes when the hosts all buy a budget used sports car that are typically wrought with humorous mechanical deficiencies. I've tackled numerous aspects of the car in the past year. All suspension bushings, end links and steering components were replaced. Brake hydraulics were restored. The missing side moldings were added, all the exterior trim was repainted, and the paint got a thorough clay bar and wax treatment.

The first photos are from the day I drove it home. Then some of from the past year. The last set of photos are current, complete with side moldings, painted trim, and miscellaneous exterior bits.

 

Hey, Brian!

Nice GSL-SE you got there. I remember when you sold your FC back when I lived in KC. Nice to see you in a first gen.

 

Very nice.

 

Clean lil 7 man. I keep watching top gear hoping they get an old 1st gen for one of their cross country shows. But I want to see Jeremy --the big dude drive it

Sent from my iPad using RX7Club

 

nice car!

 

The body looks great! Did you get all the unsafe parts sorted out?

 

Beautiful car, Sir. You have a great eye for photography, too! Thanks for posting, and take good care of that -SE,

 

Absolutely gorgeous! Keep it up. Suspension is next on my list after I get the wire tuck and megasquirt installed.

Did you get oversized swaybars as well?

 

absolutely gorgeous! there really isn't much else to say.

someone mentioned your eye for photography and i must say this is quite an inspiring shot - poster and magazine material.

 

Thanks for the compliments, guys!

Yes, I got all the problems sorted out, and she drives pretty damn good.

Stock sway bars, and actually no aftermarket parts aside from the poly bushings.