The third generation Mazda RX-7 is one of the greatest sports cars of all time and was produced from 1992 until 2002. They are fast becoming one of Japan’s most desirable classics and here is your chance to own one.
This unmolested RX-7 FD was delivered to Robert Schoon of Holland, Michigan, in March 1993. What makes this car so special is that it remained in Schoon’s ownership until it was purchased by its current owner and exported to Switzerland in 2017.
Incredibly, this Mazda RX-7 has travelled less than 600 miles in the last six years and only 13,600 miles since new. Finding such a low-mileage RX-7 in completely original condition is almost unheard of and this car will be ideal for those looking for a 90’s Japanese classic.
So, how much will this prime piece of 90’s sports car machinery go for? Well, it is expected to go for at least $40,000, but in such great condition who knows what it might reach.
Thinking of buying a Mazda RX-7? Make sure you check out our ‘Mazda RX-7 FD Buyer’s Guide’
Now that we have looked at this incredibly car, let’s look at what makes the Mazda RX-7 FD so great.
Mazda RX-7 FD History
The third and final generation of the Mazda RX-7 made its debut in 1992 and returned to the lightweight design philosophy of the first generation. When it launched, the RX-7 FD was one of the most striking and impressive designs to ever come out of Japan. Its smooth lines were in complete contrast to the boxy shape of the previous generation.
However, while the new body shape was certainly impressive, it was the mechanicals that really set the FD apart from the rest. It was the first mass-produced sequential twin-turbocharged vehicle to come from Japan. The sequential system works by having one turbocharger provide boost at low revs while the other kicks in higher up the rev range. At launch the car produced 252 bhp, but this was increased over the years to around 276 bhp.
Mazda continued to use the rotary engine for a number of different reasons. The first reason is because the rotary had an unusually high output for such a compact engine and could hit an impressive 8,000 rpm. Additionally, the engine had no need for a big heavy flywheel since its cylinders rotated around the crankshaft. The rotary also didn’t have any reciprocating components that would cause engine vibration, making for a much smoother driving experience
The Mazda RX-7 would go on to be named Motor Trend magazine’s Import Car of the Year and one of Car and Driver’s Ten Best cars in 1993. The FD was and still is incredibly popular with fans of Japanese sports cars and proved to be a perfect swansong for the model.
While the FD received high praise, the car no longer complied with the Japanese Government’s dimension regulations. This meant that Japanese buyers were liable for yearly taxes for driving the wider car compared to previous models, which impacted sales.
Want to know more about the Mazda RX7? Make sure you check out our ‘Complete History of the Mazda RX-7’ article.
Now Read: Buying a Mazda RX-7 FD
