1992 Mazda RX7 Reviews - Page 2 of 2

1992 Mazda RX7 Efini 1.3 Rotary Twin turbo from Japan

Year of manufacture1992
First year of ownership2000
Most recent year of ownership2002
Engine and transmission 1.3 Rotary Twin turbo Automatic
Performance marks 9 / 10
Reliability marks 7 / 10
Comfort marks 7 / 10
Running Costs (higher is cheaper) 4 / 10
Overall marks (average of all marks)
6.8 / 10
Distance when acquired33000 kilometres
Most recent distance65000 kilometres
Previous carNissan Silvia

Summary:

Costly to maintain, but well worth it for the experience!

Faults:

The first problem that I had with the car was an internal wiring problem with the ignition and dash harness. The Mazda dealer took two weeks to disassemble my car in order to tell me it was going to cost 1,500 dollars to replace or 300 to repair the harness.

The car was never taken in for the recall on the interior components having their finish wearing off. I was unaware of the recall until after I purchased the car.

Water pump went out at about 45000km.

The most irritating problem is my climate control system is out of control. Essentially it works when it feels like it, I cannot turn on or off the unit. I have seen that this is a common problem.

Engine blew at 60000km, poor maintenance on previous owner's part, and poor gas choice on my part. Replacement engine overhaul, 2,000 dollars.

General Comments:

This car has amazing balance, and feels almost glued to the road.

If you are a taller person getting in and out of the car takes a little getting used to, but the interior fits like a glove.

Interior is well designed for easy visibility of all gauges and components.

I love this car, it has a huge amount of power and style. The main drawback is the cost of maintaining the car in proper condition. The RX7 is not a Chevy, you must keep a proper maintenance schedule with this car or expect to have a severe price to pay.

Rotary engines also run hot, I suggest placing a metal air separator tank and new thermostat in the car on purchase.

I have read issues about the suspension being "too firm", but this car was designed as a pure sports car. There are no cup holders or trivial objects to weigh this masterpiece down. The suspension is firm, but not unbearable. Expect sport suspension, not a ride like a Cadillac.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 17th May, 2002

29th Oct 2002, 06:55

An RX7 is my dream car and I'm considering buying one second hand, but have heard/read a lot about the engine's reliability problems. Which year would be more reliable of the 1992 to 1996 RX7?

And if I was to drive it properly without taking the car to the limit like most drivers, would the 'reliability' factor still be a problem for me (considering that the last owner has taken care of the car too)?

I'm in Australia by the way so the cars we get should not be so different if at all. Thanks all.

1992 Mazda RX7 Efini MkIII RS 2.6 twin turbo petrol from UK and Ireland

Year of manufacture1992
First year of ownership2000
Most recent year of ownership2000
Engine and transmission 2.6 twin turbo petrol Manual
Performance marks 8 / 10
Reliability marks 7 / 10
Comfort marks 2 / 10
Dealer Service marks 0 / 10
Running Costs (higher is cheaper) 6 / 10
Overall marks (average of all marks)
4.6 / 10
Distance when acquired64000 kilometres
Most recent distance74000 kilometres
Previous carBMW 525i SE

Summary:

I challenge you to go quicker for the money!

Faults:

Intercooler input high pressure duct was split when I bought it - RGS motorsport in Wellingborough built me a custom alloy pipe.

Car also had missing inner arch, and split cooling tower header - both replaced.

All lights failed in first week - due to dry joints in the fuse box.

General Comments:

I got this imported vehicle from specialised dealer and paid 7,500 UK for it. The only thing I had to have done to make it legal in the UK was to convert one of the reversing lights into a rear fog. It is exempt from UK emissions tests.

OK, so it only does 16mpg, and this Efini version will shake your teeth out, but who cares when you can outrun everything bar serious supercars! (and leave puzzled looks in your wake as people you pass try to work out what the devil it is!). These cars are gorgeous :)

Only a handful of dealers are qualified to look at it and most of those won't touch imports, but find yourself a friendly tuning outfit not scared of exotic metal (aluminium in this case) and you'll be OK.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 19th September, 2000

4th Apr 2001, 17:01

There is no 92 model. Which model is yours? FD or FC?

30th May 2001, 07:17

2.6 litre?!? I believe you mean 1.3L Wankel Rotary.

26th Jun 2001, 08:18

Why are you people being so difficult it's a 2.6 for crying out loud, 2 x 1.3L = 2.6L, stop being picky.

It's just easier to say.

Top car by the way mate.

Average review marks: 6.0 / 10, based on 5 reviews


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