5k: Banana Cream Pie: 1984 Mazda RX-7

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 The original (SA or FB) generation Mazda RX-7 is a perfect modern classic for the budget car shopper.  Prices are about as low as they will ever go and should be on the way up.  If you find a nice one, own/drive it for a few years, you might not lose a dime on it, even if you budget for a minor engine rebuild every 75k miles.  But don’t come crying to me if it blows up and prices drop to scrap parts level because what do I know, I’m just some guy with a high speed internet connection and a soapbox.  Find this 1984 Mazda RX-7 offered for $3,800 in Los Angeles, CA via craigslist.  Tip from FabianW.

The first generation RX-7 (SA/FB built in Japan from 1978 to 1985) was a
beautiful ballerina in the sports car world.  Mazda gave the pop-up headlight equipped Japanese classic an
engine located behind the front wheels in what is considered a
front-midships configuration.  The rotary engine located far
back in the chassis gives the RX-7 fantastic reflexes.

The 1100 cc Mazda 12A rotary engine puts out 100 horsepower in carburetor fed, in non-turbo trim.  A rotary engine isn’t a good choice for the average American driver looking for low rpm grunt, but for those who love high revving fun, it is hard to beat.  The exhaust note is muted stock, but opened up it sounds like a swarm of bees being broadcast through a middle school PA system.

This particular RX-7 is advertised as a one-owner creampuff, but the seller avoids disclosing the mileage.  However, it is listed as zero rust and all maintenance kept up to date at Mazda dealer, so it will probably give you miles of worry free driving. 

See a better deal on an 80s classic that will only go up in value? tips@dailyturismo.com