2nd Generation Specific (1986-1992) 1986-1992 Discussion including performance modifications and technical support sections.
Sponsored by:

2g Rx7... Is this the car of my dreams? Please read/help me out

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old 10-14-01, 11:56 PM
  #1  
Junior Member

Thread Starter
 
Tony Mulla's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2001
Location: Toronto, Ontario (Canada)
Posts: 38
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Smile 2g Rx7... Is this the car of my dreams? Please read/help me out

First I would just like to introduce myself to the board. I am a new user, and hope that I can continue posting, and get to know many of the fellow RX7 fans on this board.

I have been looking into getting a car for approx 1 year now. I have done quiet a bit of reading/testing on various car's, such as the 1990 LX 5.0, 1991 Eagle Talon TSi/Awd , and the Toyota Supra Mach III Turbo...

I have just recently been interested in the 2g Rx7's, the whole concept on the car really gets to me, such as its high rpm engine, great proportioned weight ratio, and attractive look. First things first obviously, what I want... I want a car that is very attractive/sexy etc... I did not find this with either three of the other cars, the mustang was obviously just not for me, the Talon was some what "cheap" and the Toyota Supra Mach III had way too many head gasket issues. I want a car that I can modify to look great, attractive rims, a nice paint job, and to lower the car (I do not plan on purchasing a body kit) I rather put the money into working on the interior.

My question can it be done? Can I go about purchasing either a 1990 Rx7 Gxl, or the 1987 Rx7 Turbo II, and make it look like a gem?? Now the next question would be about performance, indeed I want a car that has some speed, but rather that, I want a car that can brake/handle like no other car can? Is this possible? Do the 2g rx7s have a good aftermarket choice of suspension mods, anything from coil over suspension, to upgraded break packages?? Is it also possible that if I purchase one of these rx7s with some what high mileage, I can purchase a new rotary/turbo engine with low mileage and have someone install it ?

Please let me know what im getting into , I will be purchasing my car within 3/4 months, so any info you can give, will be of GREAT help.... I would just like to let everyone know also, I have never tested an rx7..... Any recommendations? Should I save up the money and go for the Turbo II? Or a newer GXL Non Turbo??

Thank you all.
Hopefully in time I will have a great Rx7 and we can chat it up about further modifications

Ciao
Tony
Old 10-15-01, 12:13 AM
  #2  
Senior Member

 
Mykl's Avatar
 
Join Date: Feb 2001
Location: Montgomery, Al.
Posts: 724
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
The FC (2nd gen RX-7) is a wonderful choice, and in my opinion, a great first sports car. They look great, and perform very well.

If I were you, I'd look for an exceptionally nice example of an n/a '89-'91. A nice '89 GTUs would be CHOICE. The Turbo II's are nice, they are considerably more powerful, and have more potential, but an n/a FC will still handle and brake as well. I feel an n/a FC is the best thing to start out with.
Old 10-15-01, 12:25 AM
  #3  
More Than Meets the Eye

 
MasteRX's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2001
Location: Lynnwood, WA
Posts: 259
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
I say go for a nice Turbo II, regardless of year. There are two versions of the 87-91 Turbo cars, the 87-88 models, and the 89-91 models. In 89 they added a few horsepower and made some cosmetic changes, making them more desireable, but they are harder to find, and are (generally) more expensive. Besides, you can get the same horsepower (or even more) as an 89-91 with just a few mods. And if you start to get serious about moding it, it doesnt matter which one you have anyway. So that leaves just one main key, find a good one. If you find a nice '90 for the right price, then buy it and be proud. But if you find an okay '90, but a super clean '87 for a little more money, then go for the '87. But defenitely get a turbo regardless, you will be happier. And after you build it up some, you will have fun blowing the doors off all those LX 5.0s, TSi AWDs, and Supras that you were previously considering.
Old 10-15-01, 12:35 AM
  #4  
Glock Lover

 
TonyTurboII's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2001
Location: Currently residing in St Charles, MO
Posts: 2,223
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Do not underestimate the power of a DSM. They can run a VERY reliable 11 second 1/4, and be driven daily. Thats pushing the limits of the AWD system though.

With that said, I love my TurboII. Get one.

Take the advice of another Tony.
Old 10-15-01, 01:27 AM
  #5  
Banned. I got OWNED!!!

 
hypntyz7's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2001
Location: usa
Posts: 3,052
Likes: 0
Received 1 Like on 1 Post
I have to disagree with you guys. I wouldnt recommend a turbo to a new rotary owner. That is probably the reason our cars get a bad rap. Ive seen it locally for years. Kid sees turbo II, likes the handling and power and looks, and buys it for hella dollars. A year later he is stuck owing money in it and it blows up. Them damn roatry motors say the mechanics, and the kid tells all his buddies that rx7s are junk.

So anyway I started out with an NA 89-91 rx7 in cherry condition. Paid $3600 for it. I gave it hell and loved it to death, and gave it care and maintenance and it never once let me down. The most reliable car Ive ever owned or been associated with, over toyotas, mitsubishis, chevys, fords, none of them compared. Now Ive had turbos 2, and theyre fun, but the trouble is not worth the return. A good running 89-91 NA runs about as well as a fair running 87-8 stock turbo 2, and the motor will last longer under abuse.

I say get an 89-91 non turbo. The GXl is a super nice looking and feeling car. GTU is a base model from 89-91. In 1991 there were no trim levels, only turbo or non turbo(coupe) which was basically a gxl. You can get them from $2500-4500 all day.

Whatever you decide have fun!
Old 10-15-01, 01:44 AM
  #6  
Senior Member

 
relvinnian's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2001
Location: Columbus, Ohio
Posts: 585
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
.....

It's all about what you want! If you want the extra power and stock better handling/brakes of a T2, you're going to have to learn alot about more about the car. You'll need to make it reliable, know what you can and can't do to it, and generally treat it nicer. My T2 was my first rotory, but I was introduced to it by my roomate who owns an N/A, and I knew alot about the car before I started coming here. If you want to pay less, and still get a great, reliable car, go with the N/A. The N/A is a sweeeeeet fun car, I love driving it! Intake, exhaust, and header will increase alot of horsepower (and noise level ), and you won't have to worry about lack of fuel, or detonation. Brake and suspension mods are readily available!

It's all about preference, but I will say again... a T2 is alot more involving than an N/A, and you really can't send it to a mechanic and expect good results, you'll have to work on it yourself

-Brian
Old 10-15-01, 10:12 AM
  #7  
Senior Member

 
Mykl's Avatar
 
Join Date: Feb 2001
Location: Montgomery, Al.
Posts: 724
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
n/a RX-7's can be every bit as fast as a Turbo II, you just have to drive them in places where power means less and skill means more. On some of my favorite roads, excessive power can actually be a bad thing for performance.
Old 10-15-01, 11:32 AM
  #8  
knowledge junkie

 
vaughnc's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2001
Location: Atlanta, GA
Posts: 5,595
Likes: 0
Received 6 Likes on 4 Posts
Tony,

Hey welcome. The rx-7s are one of the best sports cars ever made. The second gens in particular have a good combination of price/performance/and handling.

What makes the rotary unique is it can handle high revs all day long, the low engine & car weight to output makes fast 0-60 times, and reliable performance potential is SO much higher than other cars. You even have a 3 rotor engine upgrade option.

As far as the different models, the GTU and GTU-S have the best price/performance/reliability combo out there. The GXL, SE, sport models are the cheapest and have good longevity. The Turbo II models are the fastest and most collectible, but do run a premium over the total life of the car. The convertible is also highly sought after and is one of the best convertibles ever made. It has both T-Top and full convertible positions.

All rx7s can last a very long time. Where people run into trouble is improperly modifying the car or not changing the oil every 3K and tuneups every 30 K.

As far as high vs low engine miles, I'd look for adds with "low engine miles," "recently rebuilt," "new engine," or "dirt cheap with blown engine - emaculent exterior & interior."

Note the second generation cars are divided into the 1986-1988 and 1989-1992 years. The latter years have more HP and look a bit more modern. The earily years have a bit more engine longevity as well.

If you choose a high mileage turbo II or GTU/GTU-S, I'd personally try to find a emaculent exterior & interior model with a blown engine for cheap. That way adding a new engine gives you EVEN MORE reliability.

Otherwise find a model you like and have a mazda dealership do a compression test on the engine to determine the shape it's in. Be sure to ask the dealership how the performe the compression test. Doing the test wrong can skew the numbers (ie a good compression engine shows low compression).

As far as aftermarket parts - your in for a treat. There are a HUGE!!!! amount of aftermarket accessories, bodykits, light kits, suspension upgrades, engine upgrades, accessories, etc.. to personalize the look and feel. Even better - Mazda has parts back from 1978 - so finding OEM items for 1986-1992 is a snap.

As far as test driving, what part of the country do you live in? I'm sure someone near you wouldn't mind letting you drive there TII or GTU/GTU-S.

Note there are RX-7 clubs all over the country that have active events and meets. You should find the one near you and attend to get a feel what there all about. I'm in the SoutEast - so www.se-rx7.com is our club for FL, GA, NC, SC, TN, and AL.

Here's a few pics to give you a feel for how these cars look and several bodykits to show aftermarket styling potential.









Last edited by vaughnc; 10-15-01 at 11:35 AM.
Old 10-15-01, 11:37 AM
  #9  
"Just Looking".......

 
FEDREX's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2001
Location: Treasure Coast, FL
Posts: 521
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
If you buy a non-turbo and later drive the Turbo II - you'll kick yourself for not getting the TII to start with. I have a '90 TII; have had it for 3 years and have had no problems other than regular wear and tear.

Get the TII - done correctly they can be made blisteringly fast and be reliable.

It sounds like you're going to sink some $$$ into this car - start with the right one.

P.S. I had a '91 N/A b4 I got the TII. I modded both cars.
Old 10-15-01, 11:41 AM
  #10  
knowledge junkie

 
vaughnc's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2001
Location: Atlanta, GA
Posts: 5,595
Likes: 0
Received 6 Likes on 4 Posts




Supercharger:


I can fly:


Gold Baby:


A very RARE Turbo II - 1987 Savanna TII convertible - imported

Old 10-15-01, 11:48 AM
  #11  
knowledge junkie

 
vaughnc's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2001
Location: Atlanta, GA
Posts: 5,595
Likes: 0
Received 6 Likes on 4 Posts
My personal car:

1992 FC3S Turbo II rx-7



Now everyone's favorite - Bodykits.
The 2nd gens have a timeless look, but it's not hard to give them a modern look either


[img][/img]



Old 10-15-01, 12:00 PM
  #12  
Senior Member

 
Join Date: Feb 2001
Location: NY
Posts: 310
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
welcome to the board. im hte lounge ****, off to the 2nd gen specific forum
Old 10-15-01, 12:05 PM
  #13  
knowledge junkie

 
vaughnc's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2001
Location: Atlanta, GA
Posts: 5,595
Likes: 0
Received 6 Likes on 4 Posts







Old 10-15-01, 12:18 PM
  #14  
knowledge junkie

 
vaughnc's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2001
Location: Atlanta, GA
Posts: 5,595
Likes: 0
Received 6 Likes on 4 Posts





[img][/img]

Old 10-15-01, 12:40 PM
  #15  
Senior Member

 
goodspeed's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2001
Location: Centralia, WA, USA
Posts: 473
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Talking what body kit is that!??!?

what is that body kit on that blue rx-7 ..... ..... ..... ..... .....

its the picture above that right below the white rx7 and right above the gold rx7.??????



matt
Old 10-15-01, 01:02 PM
  #16  
...

 
Ryde _Or_Die's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2001
Location: Tampa, FL
Posts: 7,539
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Man, it depends on what you are getting this car for. If you want the fastest possible ryde go with a TII. You can get one with a blown engine(or try the ATF trick on it) & buy a J-spec engine for like 850-1000. Just look for a TII that looks very good for cheap. If you want a quick car that handle good & looks good go with an N/A. You can pick one up cheap that looks good already. You can also make an N/A fast as well (which I am in the process of doing). Just all depends what you want to end up with, how much time you want to spend, & most importantly, what kind of money you are willing to throw at the car.
Old 10-15-01, 01:17 PM
  #17  
Full Member

 
jizzajuice's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2001
Location: seattle, wa, usa
Posts: 181
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Talking

Glad to see another person interested in the RX7. I'm currently prepping my car for the winter and one of the major projects I'm going to undertake is to add a turbo to it. I have an 88 GXL which is an NA car but after driving around a while with it *6 months* I wanted something more powerful and unique at the same time. I thought about selling the car and buying a TII straight up, but I've modded my car to the point where it's just more cost efficient and *to tell you the truth, i just can't bear to leave it* ^_^ . RX7's are a little bit more difficult to mod out because of the engine layout *IE: Sparkplug location* compared to like a B16 engine but it's still not impossible like on a BMW for example. Anyways, good luck on whatever car you decide but I'll tell you right now, you'll have fun either way!

Peace,
AJ ^_^
Old 10-15-01, 02:57 PM
  #18  
hambre y sueño

 
MaxRX7's Avatar
 
Join Date: Feb 2001
Location: 80* >
Posts: 300
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
yup, get one much better than the other cars you were considering , just make sure you don't get an automatic.

PS: the aftermarket is HUGE !
Old 10-15-01, 05:24 PM
  #19  
NA Powah, Every Hour!

 
RarestRX's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2001
Location: Sacramento, CA, U S of A
Posts: 1,302
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Yo,


Welcome to the Forum! I drive a 1989 GTUs (<---note the little "s", it's important!) which was the NA model that had all the TII goodies. I'm a big proponent of NA rotaries for their famous reliability, good power, and ease on the wallet. If you are new to rotaries and RX-7's, definitely get a NA one. Once you've mastered your car and feel you need more power, by all means, look for a TII. I've had my car for over 2 years and have only had to add oil, gas and tires to it. And I haven't mastered the car, since I am new to RWD. I'm more of a handling buff, than a drag buff, so I don't really care if I get beaten in drag races. But if I get into the twisties, and get beaten /there/, then I'll worry. *grin*

Good luck with your search and let us know if you have any other questions!

KS
1989 GTUs "No Turbo, No Problem."

http://www.rx-7.org/events/SevenStoc...4-115.jpg.html

That's my car at Sevenstock. As you can see, the stock 1989-1991 front facia is agressive and has that JDM look to it. You can also see what happens when you powerdercoat the rims white. Definitely changes the whole character of the car!
Old 10-15-01, 05:48 PM
  #20  
Rattle can retard

 
Flobb's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jul 2001
Location: St. Peters, MO
Posts: 660
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Re: what body kit is that!??!?

Originally posted by goodspeed
what is that body kit on that blue rx-7 ..... ..... ..... ..... .....

its the picture above that right below the white rx7 and right above the gold rx7.??????



matt
Erebuni style 370 should quench your blood thirst on that one.
In australlia its called Maztech or something. Two variations that are almost identical.

These links will help you.
https://www.rx7club.com/vforums/show...threadid=21635
https://www.rx7club.com/vforums/show...threadid=21227
https://www.rx7club.com/vforums/show...threadid=20776
Old 10-15-01, 05:52 PM
  #21  
Junior Member

Thread Starter
 
Tony Mulla's Avatar
 
Join Date: Oct 2001
Location: Toronto, Ontario (Canada)
Posts: 38
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Wow

Thanks everyone for taking the time to respond to my post. I really appreciate it.

All I can say is "Wow" im sitting at work at the moment (taking a little time off) and just drooling over how beautiful they look. I have made up my mind now with purchasing the Rx7 over the Eagle Talon (the supra and lx 5.0 were out of the question) the reasons were simple.

1. Very few people own rx7's
2. It just has too many positive aspects
3. It made the top 10 best cars in the world

As for which Turbo II vs. Non Turbo goes. I will make up my mind at the time when I purchase my car (Notice I am waiting a few months for winter to hit so prices drop a bit). As for my plans, well here it goes.... I hope you don’t get upset

1. Reupholster the leather seats (it just looks incredible when done)

2. Refinish the interior (meaning repaint the inside so it looks very attractive)

3. Have a paint job done on the car, I figure either red/silver/black/blue, either color will look quiet good indeed!

4. If the car is purchased with a blown motor. Purchase "someone else said" A jdm spec motor and transmission and have it installed that way the car overall is more reliable

5. Purchase from Tirerack.com 16 inch rims, something I find attractive with Perrili Pzero tires (good performance tires/handling)

I know most people jump into the "performance" aspect of the Mazda Rx7... Remember this is only my second car and first true sports car. So instead of ending up killing myself with much power under the hood I will work on the other aspects which will make me happy everyday just looking at it

Thank you all once again

Tony
Old 10-15-01, 06:09 PM
  #22  
Banned. I got OWNED!!!
 
Supermac's Avatar
 
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: Lenexa, KS
Posts: 168
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Hey Tony, Welcome. Drive a few of them, and see which model suits you better. Be wary of the Turbos though, It's better to own an NA first to get a feel of how the car works. This will ease many headaches when you move to a turbo eventually .

They are very rare, that's why they are so much fun to drive. The engine is the most unique part

have fun!
Old 10-15-01, 06:23 PM
  #23  
Speed from skill

 
AE Turbo's Avatar
 
Join Date: Feb 2001
Location: San Diego, CA
Posts: 204
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Talking

FC RX-7's just look better than the similar year Mustangs, Talon/Eclipcse, and MKIII Supras.

Eclipse/Talon:



MKIII Supra:



Mustang:




Well, what more could you want than this:

Last edited by AE Turbo; 10-15-01 at 06:54 PM.
Old 10-15-01, 06:57 PM
  #24  
Junior Member

 
filraen's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2001
Location: las vegas NV
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
Tony,
Don't forget that the RX-8 will be released soon! I am a RX-8 hopefull (hopefull that Ford won't **** up a rotary ressurection) but thats just because I'm all about the Renesis engine and its potentials. Not to mention the fact that the parts will be new and not at least 5 years old. I'm sure that there will be some fellow rotorheads who will try and drop a Renesis turbo (crate) into there 2nd gens.... and I wish them luck. I Plan on buying a 2nd year rx-8, unless Ford really screws up Mazda's proud rotary.


Many fellow rotorheads are debating on whether to wait on the RX-8 or just buy a third gen. I recommend starting with a 87N/A if you are in a cash crunch (aren't we all though?) Thats what I started with, and I have many fond memories of that little Red lightning bolt. I've now owned a 90 GXL with mods for over three years now, and I have a hard time letting her go If I really have to. The only gripe I have with my white 90 is them damned passive seat belts. Mazda used to replace them for free but now they no longer support that recall, and I'm sol with a 700 buck replacement on my passenger side. Just don't pick up any passengers my wife says.... But like all rotary owners i absolutely love my RX when she's running perfectly, but I curse her very existance in my life when she breaks!! Remember that Rotaries are a love/Hate relationship.

Last thoughts: Open up the exhaust and intake, High REV her when that Damned SUV/Soccer mom Gets on yer butt in traffic, shift at about 8k rpm and shoot a nice flame into that damned tailgaiter, ALWAYS makes me smile

That and the fact that your REX WILL Save your sorry butt when near accidents do occur with her Handling and throttle response!!!


Sorry bout the rant rotorites: but Dan from Rotarynews.com summed it up pretty well a few weeks ago. "Your RX-7 is like a woman, put money and energy into her and she will treat you right!" Thanks Dan..


Filraen
Old 10-15-01, 08:50 PM
  #25  
Rotary Enthusiast

 
rx7_ragtop's Avatar
 
Join Date: Mar 2001
Location: Ft. Worth, Texas, USA, Earth, Solar System...
Posts: 1,273
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes on 0 Posts
First off, the light/front fascia kit on that purple FC is SWEET!

Now, to the questions above. What about a 2nd gen convertible? It's not AS stiff as the coupe of course... but you would be VERY surprised- it's one of the tightest convertible chassis made. Yes, they are a bit slower- but you were concerned with style too...

You're already looking at a blown engine and doing an install yourself right? The best choice IMHO is an 89+ convertible, and swap in an 89+ J-spec TII motor. You would have to change the ENTIRE drivetrain, the engine wiring harness, and the computer. ( the dash wiring on the 89+ cars doesn't have to be altered, unlike the 86-88 ones if you were to swap in a TII for those years.) Find yourself a totalled TII and a Convertible with a blown motor. Lots of work, but positively worth it.

Brad
88 Convertible
a few mods...


Quick Reply: 2g Rx7... Is this the car of my dreams? Please read/help me out



All times are GMT -5. The time now is 08:27 AM.