1985 Mazda RX7 GSL-SE review from North America
"No turn can be taken too fast"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The catalytic pre converter seized dumped into the main cat which dumped into the muffler. This happened as of this April. Best part is that all of the parts that went bad were all stock! So after 75000+ miles and over 17 years I had to replaced the exhaust system. The only draw back to this is that the Rx7 in 85 had 3 catalytic converters.
General comments?
My first car was a 1985 Mazda rx7. Since then I have had an 86 Toyota pickup then a 2000 Chevy s10. In 2002 I sold my brand new car and bought a 1985 Mazda Rx7 GSL-SE. And from now on will never own anything other than a rotary powered car. They are easy to maintain and have a longer life than most piston driven engines. Also with the new Renisis engine from Mazda featured in the Rx8. I wouldn't doubt we'll see another REPU.
The Rx7 family of cars are by far the best bang for your buck. If you are lucky to find an 85 GSL-SE it's a light weight car with a good amount of power. I would recommend this car to anyone looking for a car that can take the turns with the best of them.
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![]() ![]() | 1985 - RX7 Sport 12A (1.1 liter) A near perfect classic sports car |
![]() ![]() | Fun and it handles like a dream |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 13B Manual |
| Performance marks | 10/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 68000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 83500 miles |
| Date of Entry | 31st May, 2003 |

