5k: 1987 Mazda RX-7 Turbo
The second generation Mazda RX-7 debuted in 1986 with new streamlined styling and more power from the available Wankel rotary engines. For the first time in the US market, a turbocharged version was available and this 1987 Mazda RX-7 turbo located in Summit Point, WV looks to be a good example for $5,295 buy-it-now on ebay.
The FB generation RX-7 is certainly a more modern looking car than the 1st generation FA cars (maybe not better looking) and is definitely a more modern vehicle. The steering box system was replaced with rack-and-pinon, the solid rear axle was replaced with independent rear suspension, 4-piston disc brakes were put up front and turbochargers were fitted.
The RX-7 is powered by a high revving 1.3 liter 13B turbocharged, inter-cooled rotary engine putting out 182 horsepower and 183 ft-lbs of torque. The epitrochoid shape of the Wankel combustion chamber allows the piston-less engine to have a hyper-low rotating mass and make fantastic power-per-liter and power-per-pound. The compact 2-rotor is mounted far back in the chassis – behind the center-line of the front wheels – for an almost perfect 50:50 weight distribution. Wankels aren’t known for their longevity and blue smoke on start-up is a sign that the turbo or apex seals have left the building – but a well maintained stock 13B should last 150k miles give or take.
Inside we are treated to a classic Japanese driver centric cluster with a two spoke steering wheel and pedals in just the right position. That steering wheel is attached to a non-power rack and pinion system and will give fantastic feedback to your hands if you let it. The red interior has faded to a pink color – but the seats and everything looks to be in good shape, probably due to this cars low mileage (80k).
This car looks to overall be in good shape – aside from normal wear/tear and a small dent on the rear. A $5k you can buy cheaper second gen RX-7s, but this one looks to have the right stuff to give you that zoom-zoom feeling.
See another rotary that is about to blow up and cost its owner thousands of dollars? email us here: tips@dailyturismo.com
This color might not be for everyone, but there aren't many 2nd gen RX-7 Turbos with less than 80K miles. Price seems to be in-line with the market also (BaT featured a 63K mile example last week for $8K, bringatrailer.com/2012/08/01/1987-mazda-rx-7-turbo/). A bit of an oil appetite, and the gas mileage wasn't great, but winding out a rotary is like nothing else! Fun car.
~ huh, that's the second time today the word 'epitrochoid' came up in conversation. what is Mazda's name for this pewter hue? i rather like it, although brown or burgundy leather would be more attractive. 80,000 miles plus $5295 equals banging deal. DT, you are on a roll.