Just purchased my first RX7, as well as first project car, as well as first manual transmission (yesterday). Car is an 88 FC Convertable with 88000 miles. Just wondering if I could get some advice on things to keep and eye out for. Any advice would be greatly appreciated, I plan to/want to do as much of the work I can by myself although I do have a mechanic if I need something up.


Pros
Low miles
99% stock
Engine and trans seem fine
Very little rust


Cons
Bad paint
No carpet
Most of the plastics (radio, ac, vents) are destroyed, breaking, falling off
Wheels are bald
Ride feels really rigid like any bump I hit is very harsh
Previous owner used flex seal and mesh to fix holes yo in top so it doesn't close.
Shifter Sounds? Not the decorative **** at the top but the entire shaft.
Shifts rough but hasn't grinded or popped out of gear
Lots of play in the shifter.
No radio, no drivers window switch




Ordered so far
205/60R-15 YOKOHAMA AVID ENVIGOR - tirerack
15X6.5 ENKEI PERFORMANCE J10 SML - tire rack
BC Racing Coilovers BR Type - Andy's auto sport
Drivers window switch - mazdatrix
Panel center console - mazdatrix
Exedy Stage 2 Clutch - mazdatrix
Short throw shifter - mazdatrix
Boot shifter kit - mazdatrix


I cheaply put in carpet myself yesterday. Thinking about buying the manufacturer fit carpet replacement online. I've read a bit that an exhaust upgrade is crucial for keeping these on the road to prevent over heating of the rotary so I was considering going that way next. Talked to a local bodyshop about a paintjob and was quoted a starting price 5000 (10x what I paid for the car). Then called a vinyl shop but they said vinyl wouldn't stay if the paint was bad. So I talked to another guy that does the dipyourcar.com applications and he quoted $1200 so unfortunately that looks like my avenue.


Any suggestions on which way I should go next would be greatly appreciated. This is going to be my work car/project. Wanting to keep it street legal not go crazy.


Again thanks for any replies or advice!