Need Help with Rx7 buy!?!
 

Hi everyone, Im looking to get a 3rd Generation Rx7 in the next few weeks. Now Ive never owned a Mazda, and definetly not a rotary motor. So I need some advice as to what to look for and not to look for. I used to own a 1994 Supra TT Auto, and that was a nightmare. I purchased the car with 108k, and as I started with the BPU change-over many problems occured (tranny, fuel pump, etc). Now with the Rx7 are they somewhat reliable? Im looking into light mods (exhaust,intake,DP,BC/FC, etc.). The car im looking at right now has 120k miles with a brand new motor from Mazda, and freshly rebuilt turbos. What do specialist think about this? Im not to concerned about paint because right when I get the car its gonna get a make over. Also kinda tell me what are the best buys in this rotary market.
Thanks,
Brad

check out the "sticky" threads at the top of this forum. there is one specifically on what to look for when buying.

Also, it is customary to do a search before you post a question (to make sure it has not already been answered once... if not 100 times)

Low miles is a start.... The lower the miles the less likely you will have reliabillity problems...... See at least ten cars, Take your time finding that gem. It will be well worth the wait......

Its best "Money Wise" to purchase one completly decked out for around 20k. Let someone else take the hit on the mods.

As far as reliability is concerned. We all love this car but im not going to lie to you, its one of the most unreliable cars made in the last 15 years. I say that without sarcasm. Its not a matter of if it will break down but when. Its an amazing vehicle but if your not overly handy with the wrench and also have a daily driver, then your going to be spending large sums of money keeping the car going. You had alot of problems with your supra and I assure you, they are way more reliable. Of course, if your rich, or dont mind being poor, and are using the 7 as a weekend car, go for it. I did and have never regreted it once. Of course, my car is also sitting in the garage with a dead motor waiting on the money for a rebuild. Are you prepared for that?

Also, many will disagree, but if you know what your looking for, ebay is the place to buy a vehicle like this.

First you need to go to google and search for "Rob Robinette". His Rx7 site will teach you everything you need to know about the car including how to buy one and what to look for. This is very important! This site is worth its weight in gold. Read everything on that site and you will know more about the car than half the people on the forum.

Ebay! I would never buy a car this tricky to own and mod from a place like Ebay! I'd need to meet the owner to see whether they have a clue and understand how to properly maintain, drive and modify the car. Many of the reasons this car is unreliable is b/c people have no clue how to modify them reliably.

Do read the stickies. I don't feel mileage is that much of an issue as age can be just as bad as mileage on a car. Mine has 120k miles on it too. I bought it with a dead motor and rebuilt it. The mileage has not been an issue whatsoever.

I suggest that your first step be to find a GOOD rotary specialist in your area to help you out when something happens.

Make sure the guy you are buying from can proove with receipts and such that it really does have a new engine. When I was looking myself, a lot of guys told me they had a new motor, but couldn't prove it so I walked away.

[QUOTE]Originally posted by alberto_mg
[B] I don't feel mileage is that much of an issue as age can be just as bad as mileage on a car. Mine has 120k miles on it too. I bought it with a dead motor and rebuilt it. The mileage has not been an issue whatsoever.



Mileage is an issue.... Remember you bought yours with a dead motor.... What was the mileage when it died? I'll bet money it did'nt die before 60,000 miles.... Any low mileage car is less likely to have their motor die on them, than a car with 120,000 on an original motor...

Motor dying due to wear and tear from high mileage is a big reliabillity issue!!!

Re: Need Help with Rx7 buy!?!
 

Generally less reliable than a Supra, and even less when modded further.