Mazda's intentions with the RX7 were clear from the very first generation. Sold from 1979-'85, the original RX7 established the car's DNA as a small, light and fun-to-drive sports coupe with a whole range of parts available. Its 100-hp, 1146cc (1.1-liter) Wankel rotary engine wasn't the most impressive power plant on the market. But a rigid chassis, light curb weight and optimum 50/50 weight distribution together with a wealth of performance parts and styling parts that are available gave the RX-7 great handling characteristics and make it desirable for car enthusiasts . A five-speed manual transmission was standard.
A well-equipped GSL trim was added in 1981, but the first major changes didn't come until the introduction of the GSL-SE trim in 1984. That version replaced the 100-hp engine with a 1.3-liter rotary equipped fuel injection parts , producing 135 hp and dropping the coupe's 0-60 time into the high 7s.
Released in 1986, the second-generation Mazda RX-7 was a complete overhaul of the previous model. The 1.3-liter parts were retained but its output was up to 146 hp. The car had a longer wheelbase and a wider track. And for the first time, it was equipped with independent rear suspension parts. Although the car was roughly 150 pounds heavier than the outgoing GSL and had a reputation for being not quite as sharp in terms of handling, it was just as quick. Mazda also offered an optional 2+2 seat layout, but the rear seats were more useful for carrying small cargo than people.
Later that year, Mazda introduced the first RX-7 Turbo, which featured a turbocharged 1.3-liter rotary parts that made 182 hp. With 0-60-mph time in the low 6-second range, the RX-7 Turbo finally gave the model lineup superior engine performance with high quality parts to go with the car's impressive handling ability.
Capitalizing on the car's popularity, Mazda also released a convertible two-seater in 1988. It was available exclusively with the non-turbo 146-hp engine and a five-speed manual transmission. A year later, Mazda tweaked the rotary engine and bumped the naturally aspirated models up to 160 hp and the Turbo to 200 hp. The convertible was also given the option of a four-speed automatic. After that, the RX-7 remained relatively unchanged until the launch of the third generation in 1993.
Due to the RX7's appealing, sporty looks and performanace it has become extremely popular with the car modification scene and as a result there are a whole range of parts available, both for cosmetic purposes as well as performance parts. Some of the popular performance and styling parts are listed below.
- Air Intake parts
- Exterior parts including bodykits
- Turbo kits and suspension parts
- Clutch kits and parts for brakes
- Exhaust parts
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