was looking at getting into the RX-7 enthusiast ranks. was wondering what the major problems are with them? and the first mods to both increase performance, and increase reliability. know the search, need the post.

 

Well, it somewhat depends on your mechanical ability and experience. I am sure that a lot of guys on this site will argue with me, but I don't think the third gen is a very good choice for a first rotary car, and not a good choice if you need it for a daily driver. They tend to be a little temperamental, very complex, and need a lot of TLC. They are wonderful cars, but certainly not trouble free.
A second or first gen is a better choice for entry level.

 

https://www.rx7club.com/new-member-rx-7-technical-256/frequently-asked-questions-3rd-generation-rx-7-1992-2002-faq-fd-782404/

Check the threads under buyers guides and "advice".

Then you can use the search and look for "reliability". The short answer is that FDs are fairly reliable if you replace a few failure-prone stock parts, do extra preventive maintenance, and treat the car well. If you decide to mod the car and push the power way up that will also compromise reliability. A stock-powered FD with reliability mods and current maintenance is actually a reliable car. Practical, never, but reliable, yes.