I just picked up a 1988 RX-7 GTU with 137,000 miles (25,000 on the motor) for $1700.

Externally I am going to remain as stock as possible. No wings, no bodykits, I'm even going to redo the faded black trim in a nice matte finish to keep it looking like it came from the factory. I might skip the GTU decals on the fenders but that's about it.

As far as the interior goes, the driver's seat's left side is squished, I might have the seats redone or I might just try to find a nice used one.

What I'm wondering is what it would take to get 200 crank hp out of the 13B N/A. It pushes 146 hp in stock form, but the exhaust is not the original equipment (obviously not, after 137,000 miles). It does appear to be the same style and not any sort of performance exhaust (I think it came from NAPA). The piping seems a bit bigger than stock though. Anyway, what's the optimum exhaust setup for an N/A?

Also looking at upgrading the tires and brakes. Any recommendations?

Racing Beat also has a pretty nice suspension kit (springs and sway bars) for $390. Anyone with any experience with it?

 

i dont like progressive springs....
Rb has great exhaust

 

SmokingClutch,

A streetport, larger secondaries (possibly primaries), and good tuning would net you 200HP. Ephasis on the tuning as the "chips" don't squeeze every HP out of the port job.

Assume intake & exhaust upgrades as well.

Note to get 200ft / lbs of torque you need either a boosted motor (turbo or supercharger) or a 3 rotor engine converted back to a NA.

 

For the brakes, get some Powerslot vented/slotted/crossdrilled rotors and some Project MU or Endless brake pads along with stainless steel brake lines so you don't get that line expansion.