I just purchased a 1987 mazda rx7 non turbo and im very new to rotary engines. The body and interrior on the car are in great shape. It seems to run and idle very nicely but it has NO pickup... It seems like its redlining at 4,000 rpms. I have an idea that the exhaust (which is in horrible shape) may be to blame. Any ideas?

 

Most likely the previous owner didnt redline it ever and it is carboned up. Driving it may help some. Also check to see if you AUX ports are opening. Other than that non-turbo cars are slow even when modded.

 

Thanks alot. I know that non-turbo cars are pretty slow but this is realllly slow. I can bet my 1998 toyota corolla could put it to shame. Thats embarrassing...

 

A more descriptive thread title may have helped you out a bit.

Anyways.

It could be a lot of things. can you post more info on what the car sounds like at high rpm. will it go past 4000 at all. is it pinging. any smoke out the exhaust. Do you know the previous owners driving habits.

I would recommend replacing your fuel filter engine oil spark plugs and wires, unless you know for sure these things are in good condition.

If the previous owner of your car did not drive it hard enough. It may have carbon build up. the solution may be to fix up your aux ports and rev the engine up a bit. If it is really bad you may have bad seals. also hot carbon deposits can cause detonation (very bad).

good luck