masonholmes

Well, my chair's not quite the norm, but that doesn't change much when wondering where it'd go in a Miata, haha.. When I'm alone I put the frame in the passenger seat and the rear wheels on the deck right behind the seats. The front wheels are quick release too, but I really have no need to remove them in most cases. (I'll be giving a link to help illustrate a little in a second, it can be found towards the beginning of this thread, referencing a disabled RX-8 owner) If my fiancee is with me, who is also somewhat disabled, I can actually fit the frame of the chair on the deck behind the seats and she puts the main wheels in the trunk, leaving room for some groceries etc. If I'm with an able bodied person, the frame looses the back wheels, the back folds down, and it goes on it's side in the trunk. Unfortunately, the trunk's not quite deep enough to shut it. Since my Miata's so old & has some body issues/I'm thinking of replacing it with something, I may have my mechanic experiment with chopping a section of the trunk's floor out & weld it back in a couple inches deeper, if it looks possible. My fiancee used to put the frame back there like everybody else, but that's a little hard on her these days, so I've been putting it on the deck. It's not real easy on me either, and gets a little harder to position it there with the top down, but I love the car too much to give it up before I absolutely have to/have something I deem better to replace it with. Putting it back there has also proven hard on a few areas of the interior, which took me a little time to swallow, but oh well. Also, not looking for sympathy, but my back's fused from top to bottom and crooked as hell, and I have horrid balance/no real muscle control below the shoulders. The hassle is still worth it to me though - I just wish I had a little bit more room to fit my frame in the back. (as an RX-7 does) Here's the link I mentioned. My frame sets in the passenger seat, identical to this guys, and folds in the same manner. (though is a different model from the same manufacturer, and is a little smaller/more compact. these chairs run $2-5k on their own) I posted something in that thread last night, which should still be right at the end. http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?t=92246

The G35/350Z is a bit bigger/heavier than I'd like, and are out of my price range really anyways, as is the S2000. Maybe in a couple years though. Do 2000's come in automatic? I think I checked that out awhile back, but don't remember at this point. Also, I'll check out that thread Mahjik. As far as transmissions go, a brand new Miata could suit me real well with it's paddle setup and a few modifications. Unfortunately, I really don't like the look of the new ones. They're not "true" Mazda's either, and as the other mentioned vehicles, are currently out of my price range. I may warm up to them enough one day to have one though. It's too bad I couldn't put a 3rd gen. Miata ATX in a 1st gen - that'd be great. The new auto's test just a tad slower in the quarter, but actually hold equal lap times to their manual counterpart, according to a writeup I believe I read in R&T. In that test, the best lap time was actually from an auto. This is going off topic, but I wonder why they don't have a paddle option in automatic RX-8's. That'd make them a little more attractive to me once they hit my price range in a few years. (wow, I type waay too much huh, LOL)

Toyotarx7

iTrader: (13)

i gotta say, i have an FD and its my daily driver, tho not in the winter, my car has 71k on it and she still runs like a beast! of course a few flaws here and there but with a little TLC shes running great again, tho i have to say, the car can be hard for some one to get out of and it can be a tight fit in there. for example my gf has to pull herself out of the car. and i just want to add, ive seen people in wheel chairs fully modify cars to fit there needs and win shows and certain events, with that said, if u do decide to get the FD big props to u!! i wanna see pics of it of course : ) but im sure what ever u decide to do will make u happy. good luck!

SLOASFK

iTrader: (5)

A few things...

350Zs and S2000s are in the same price range as manual transmission RX-7s($13-20k)

S2000s come in 6sp manual only

Auto RX-8s do have paddle shifters.

And how old are you? You keep talking about your dad not approving and a tight budget...You're not a teenager are you?

RiceFx306

iTrader: (7)

I hate to say it but I think a C5 Vette is the best option. I remember hopping in one back in 2000 and thinking how great a balance it was between luxury and performance. Good gas mileage. Reliability. Trunk. I would have bought a Vette but I remember all the wierd looks I use to get driving around a Firebird. "DUDE! It's an Asian in a Firebird!" I love that you love the RX7, but honestly I don't see it being worth it. Haha I'll probably get flamed to hell for this, but my vote goes to the Vette.

bbade

iTrader: (5)

Hey man props, you have chosen a great car to look at. I bought my FD a little over three years ago with a rebuilt engine/turbos. Since then I have done the reliability mods and regular maintenance with no problems. As mentioned I would not want to rely solely on the FD though, but since you said you would keep one of the MXs that should not be a problem.

It sounds like you have a trusted local mechanic which would take care of your basic maintenance, you should not have to visit a rotary specialist for things like that. However, with gas prices and a tight budget it might be wise to look elsewhere. Have you looked into any of the Mazdaspeed cars such as the older proteges or the new 3. I can not speak for the protege, but the Speed3 is supposed to be a blast to drive. This would offer you the fun of a sports car with the added practicality of a sedan or hatchback.

Whichever route you decide to go good luck man. I certainly wouldn't mind seeing you as our newest member .

RotaryTom

iTrader: (4)

Hey Mason,
Many have expressed concerns about the FD as a daily driver. And though I can't disagree, my 93 touring has been pretty darn good. In the 6 years and 90k miles that I've owned it, it's been down for a total of four weeks. Three of those were for a rebuild at 80K due to failing water seals.


I owned two first gen RX-7's--drove an 85 for 17 years until I retired it with 219,000 miles on the original engine--never rebuilt. I fell in love with the FD in '93 but waited until 2002 to buy one. What a blast! I've never had so much fun with a car! No, not cheap to own, but the reliability mods help a lot. And with some of the upgrades you do get some (very) modest performance gains. As stated before, the car is worse than useless in snow and ice--it's downright terrifying!

If you can confirm that you can reasonably get in and out of the car, and can find a car that checks out, then why not? What's the worst that can happen? Sure, like any performance car it could be an expensive mistake, and maybe some short term inconvenience, but at least you'd have given it a shot, yes?

If you really have the passion to own an FD, then search out the right car, buy it, and blind everyone with the smile that comes from driving it!

By now you're likely aware that this forum is an outstanding community and an awesome resource--lots of experience with a car that demands excellence from the driver/owner. If you have a problem or question relating to the FD, they'll help you find the answer--I can't say that strongly enough!

Whatever you decide, best of luck to you and we'll see you in the twisties!

Cheers,
Tom

hal0gical

iTrader: (5)

As a recent buyer of an FD I cannot provide you wish as much technical information as most on here but I can throw in a few things.

Much like you before I bought mine I had been looking at if for several years wondering if I would ever be able to afford it and keep it running. When the time came I jumped on it and I have to say I have not one single regret ( and it hasn't been smooth sailing either ). The enjoyment that this car brings is well worth every penny I spend/will spend keeping it in good shape. If you're like me another car just simply wasn't an option and I have to say I'm glad I couldn't convince myself otherwise.

Best of luck finding the one that suits you. Once you take it for a spin I am nearly sure there will be no turning back.

Viking War Hammer

iTrader: (8)

You might want to PM andre sinclair, he's also bound to a wheelchair and hot rods RX7's.

https://www.rx7club.com/other-engine-conversions-non-v-8-118/sa-2jz-gte-swap-751161/

masonholmes

Great replies, thanks everybody. To be honest, I've never been interested in 350z's, though I wasn't aware they were getting that cheap. I've always been interested in S2000's, but now recall what you said - 6spd manual only. I guess it's a little picky, but I think the dash cluster is horrendous too. What's with that big, goofy, digital speedometer? haha. I love Vettes, but they're out for now. I may eventually own one though. I'd give anything if I could get ahold of an FD, and stick an RX-8 ATX behind it. (I know how impossible that is too, I'm just saying it'd be awesome) I wasn't aware they had paddle shifted 6spd's available. Maybe I'm remembering wrong, or maybe it's just been thaat long since I've honestly checked them out, but last I remember they had typical 4spd ATX's attached.

As for being a teenager, nope, I'm 27. Dad lives in ME, I'm in WV, and Mom's in AZ. My closest family is 350 miles away. When I first read that question I was a little confused, though after re-reading some posts, I spose I can see how you might get that. Dad has no say, he's just an overly-practical business man and that response read straight out of his mouth - bold, well worded, and to the point. Not to say that's a bad thing, at all, but practicality isn't always the shoe that fits. Being disabled to the point that I am, I just have a limited budget to deal with, and have to keep that in mind, at least somewhat.

Petite has responded to me a couple times at this point. So far they haven't said a word about building a "reliable" engine, though they're very willing to help me find a car they've gone over & deem solid. I'm currently waiting on some pics of a black automatic they've got for sale. That may be the way I go, as I would definitely trust one they've gone over, much more than a random one I find. Apparently the one they've got now, they've done all the maintnence & work for the previous owner, so it's interesting to say the least.

As for a trusted mechanic, yep, I was lucky enough to find one right across the street! He'll even come over, get my cars, and bring them back when he's done/has the time. (because he knows what a hassle it is for me to get in and out of them) Honestly, I could probably even trust him to dive into rotary stuff & do a great job, even though he's got very little expierience. Maybe not, but I just about have that much trust in him at this point.

SLOASFK

iTrader: (5)

I agree, the big digital tach on the s2k is fugly, but even RX-8s come with digital speedos. lol

Be careful trusting a non-rotary mechanic on an FD. there are a lot of little quicks specifically related to the FD that resemble problems on different cars but are completely different issues on ours.

And here's what the engine looks like with the UIM off.


Mind you my car's a 5sp manual, the automatic has more vac lines and wires there. So you can see why it's important to have an FD specific mechanic, or atleast a rotary specific mechanic for anything engine/turbo related.

masonholmes

Yeah, but even the RX-8's cluster isn't as nasty looking as S2000's, haha. I felt the same way about whatever year Prelude that was back in the day. ('93 or so) The car looked great, but the dash was just fugly!

As for mechanics, I know and fully understand. I was just making the point that I do have a great mechanic across the street, and if it came down to it, I could probably give him books to learn up on, and he'd probably do a good job. If/when I get an FD, it will likely only get oil changes etc. from anybody around here though.

masonholmes

I forgot to reply about the 3 & older Protege's suggestion.. as far as I know, like with so many other manufacturers, the uprated, (MS), versions of these aren't available in automatic form. I wrote to Mazda USA about that in regards to a few different cars, a few years ago. Come to think of it, I told them I thought the automatic RX-8 should be available with paddle shifters and some of the other, then MTX-only, goodies. Maybe they listened, a little bit at least, haha.. Honestly, the 3 and Protege, (and RX-8), are a little bigger than what I'm after too. I also wish the 3 was available as a 2-door of some sort, as most 2-door's are a little easier to get a chair in and out of, due to the longer doors & whatnot. (I actually think the 3 sedan looks better than the hatch, which is completely out of the ordinary for my tastes) In a perfect world, I'd never own anything much bigger or heavier than a V6 MX-3, haha. Heck, if I could get a good ATX, (or manual setup I could drive), into a 2.5L MX-3, I'd never want any other FWD. (with some other goodies too of course)

verve017

Have you heard that Malloy Mazda service is good as well. I've been told Ray is great for getting good deal but I didn' know if it was a good service station for the 7's

SLOASFK

iTrader: (5)

I am not too sure about their service department. I know Ray Crowe knows his **** about FDs, but he's the parts department head, and I don't think he ever touches the servicing of cars. For work done, your closest quality shop would be Ray Wilson at Peter Farrell Supercars in MD.

masonholmes

Does anybody know anything about Rotary Power USA in Encinitas, CA? I've not gave up on RX-7's just yet, and have been in contact with the dealer selling this one: http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eB...TQ:MOTORS:1123

Monkman33

iTrader: (28)

Looks relatively clean. Pretty high mileage. If you can get records on when and where the motor was done at, and any other repairs made, it could be a good deal.

However, autos usually for less than their manual counterparts. Their "buy-it-now" price does seem reasonable for a purchase from a dealership.

ps glad to see you are still on the hunt. I sincerely hope you find a way to enjoy an fd given the hurdles you will have to overcome.

masonholmes

That Rotary USA I listed above is apparently where the engine was done. I've been exploring other possibilities, as far as cars go, (and not comming up with many that fit my strict criteria), and ran into that one. Thinking about making an offer, but would want to hear something positive about Rotary Power USA in Encinitas, CA first. Not knowing RX-7's as well as say MX-3's & Miata's, I wonder about the interior.. were those seats/tan carpet an option together? Oh yeah, and thanks for the words of encouragement!

masonholmes

The rebuild was done at Rotary USA in Gardena CA, which one person has said do excellent Rotary work. (including the turbos) I'm getting ready to make a new thread over in the Western RX-7 forum area, as I had the city stated wrong originally. I've got a PDF copy of the invoices for all the work done, though the file size is a little over a Mb & I can't attach it. Anybody know a way around that? Also, to answer my own question, the seats were re-covered. (it's included in the invoice set)

Monkman33

iTrader: (28)

If your criteria is as strict as it would seem, and you found an FD with plenty of recent work and in good condition....

It may just be time to make an offer/purchase.

The worst case scenario is something breaks and you replace it. Then you don't have to worry about that part... for a while. Its an FD. They don't call them "Financial Disasters" for nothing you know. :P If it runs strong and fits your needs/wants, and falls into budget. Its time to get a car.

When it comes down to it, anyone can tell you to wait because a nicer one will come along. And anyone can recommend that you purchase. And either one could be a good or bad choice. You have to look at a few factors:

Does it fit?
Can you afford it?
Do you want it?

If all three answers are yes, then the only thing holding you back is pulling the trigger. Get a good deal and enjoy your new car, and enjoy learning it inside and out... or wait for another one to come along. both situations are inevitable... Just which one will come first?

Just have 3-6k for an engine rebuild on hand... just in case. Not saying your engine will go, just saying that it helps to have cushion. My project has gotten delayed for an extra 2 years due to not having a sizable enough financial cushion. My mistake, my lesson learned.

masonholmes

Thanks for the words man, all too true! Of course I found myself a reason to doubt this one now.. the fact that it's been driven for 20k, (in 2 years), since the rebuild. Until the invoices were forwarded & I payed attention to the dates, I was under the impression that the rebuild was more recent.. I'm pretty well out of time at this point, but I should have been trying to see if anybody out there would go check it over & testdrive it for me. I've had people from Miata.net do that with long-distance Miata's I've been interested in.

DaveW

IMO, 20K miles on a rebuild is not a bad thing. If anything was going to go wrong because of a rebuild mistake, it would have already happened. And with reasonable care and use, a rebuild should last at least 60K or so. So I don't see that as a detriment.

djseven

iTrader: (56)

By the time you pay shipping you are going to have near $12k in an auto fd. Believe me, you can find a better deal. I dont deal with auto fds but I have sold around 80 fds over the last 6 years, you should be able to find a nice low mileage fd for around $11-12k on the east coast, I am talking between 25-50k miles. Ill keep an eye out for you.

djseven

iTrader: (56)

https://www.rx7club.com/showthread.p...ight=automatic

This is a little high in price but maybe you can work with him. White FDs do usually bring the most money along with CYMs.

masonholmes

I guess I was hoping to have a little more of the rebuilds miles to myself, paired with the mileage on the rest of the car/transmission, and the overall price + 1k shipping..

That's kind of what I've been thinking as well, though I don't seem to find many on the east coast, especially with as low miles as you're talking. (this is the first I've paid any attention to over 100k though) Thanks a bunch for the link to the white one. Again, by the time I figure in shipping, I'll have to really lowball him though, unfortunately. Hard to find them in such good shape, and then to have a nearly new ATX attached - wow! I also GREATLY appreciate your keeping me in mind. I'll be contacting rzgmt, but doubt I'll be making a sale there.

GoodfellaFD3S

iTrader: (213)

Ray's service shop does work on FDs last I heard from him, so that's one option if you're local to woodbridge