Geeman

iTrader: (1)

Hi there,

I've started looking to buy a 2nd gen RX-7. And was wondering how much difference there really is between the 87s up to the 92s.

Basically are the changes in how they produced them very large or negligible. Also how compatible the frames between the 4 models were if I were to consider swapping in newer stuff into an older chassis.

Currently looking at a 87 Mazda Rx-7 Turbo imported from Japan. Any help from all you experts would be great


Thanks
Gee

hIGGI

iTrader: (7)

its pretty much same car from 86 to 91 and almost everything is interchangeable, something is bolt-on, something requires more work

changes u will notice are cosmetical, electrical etc....but main stuff (suspension, body parts, drivertrain are either identical, or bolt-on interchangeable)

Sideways7

iTrader: (7)

Uh, not exactly. All s4's (86-88) are basically the same, and all s5's (89-91) are basically the same, but there are several differences between s4's and s5's. First of all, the engines are quite different. s5's made more power, higher compression, had VDI, electric oil pump, etc. They are also heavier. They also have subtle differences in electronics and tend not to have as many electrical gremlins as s4's. Theres other differences, but those are the ones that come to mind. Also, a lot of the stuff under the engine bay isnt interchangable. They might be bolt-on in the fact that you can bolt it on, but many things require some work to get it to run right.

Syonyk

The S4s (86-88) and S5s (89-91) are fairly similar. The major mechanical differences between the generations (as far as I know - PLEASE CORRECT ME IF I'M WRONG HERE!):

S4 LSDs (when equipped) are clutch type. S5 LSDs are viscous. The clutch type wears out and needs new plates, but many prefer it's behavior.

The S5 engine is higher compression, at at least on the NAs has a better intake track. However, the performance difference on the NAs isn't huge. I can't speak for the turbos.

The S5 rotors are lighter, which when combined with the faster ECU allows a higher redline (8k vs 7k, fuel cut around 9k vs 8k)

The S5 ECU is a bit more advanced. It runs at a higher clock speed, which improves efficiency some.

The S5 tail lights are round. Bleh. Less "80s" looking, but I rather like the S4 lights.

One major factor: S4 parts are a LOT easier to find. The S5s are in higher demand, and S5 turbo parts are *very* difficult to find at times.

-=Russ=-

First gen man

iTrader: (24)

i like the 91's still S5's, but my friend has a 91 coupe and it seems to be alot cleaner.. power windows work better sunroof works better everything is newer and less miles with the more powerful S5 engine. the thing that the s4 has over the s5 is the front cover. eletrical oil metering pumps tend to fail, and the plastic thermostat housing has to get outtie. but s5 is a much larger step. also what blows about them is all the S5 LSD are viscous type which blows compared to the clutch type in the S4's also alot more S4 cars came with the LSD

First gen man

iTrader: (24)

syonyk stole my post lol. good job though