1987 Mazda RX7 FC3S Non - Turbo review from Australia and New Zealand

In general the car has been very reliable, especially for a rotary.

Upon purchase new spark plugs were required and a full service was completed.

At 190 000km the car required an injection service and diagnostic testing. Included in this was a new idle control mechanism ($200 Australian dollars).

The Series 4 Mazda RX7 is the best handling car I have ever driven for under $20 000 (AUD).

With its perfect weight distribution and stiff suspension it can take corners faster and safer than most other cars on the road.

When combined with slightly wider tyres and some stiffer suspension, the RX7 handles even better and is more than sufficient for track work.

With a set of performance brake pads the Series 4 RX7 brakes are also up to harsh treatment on the race track. Consistently 'pulling up' with little fading of brake response. If continued track work or hard driving is on the cards an upgrade to slotted rotors such as those made by Disc Brakes Australia (DBA) are the way to go to increase stopping power and increase their heat dissipation capabilities.

The interior of the RX7 is both comfortable and attractive. With 'race' style seats and a tidy instrument set-up the 1980's RX7 is comparable with many 1990's cars.

The exterior of the second generation RX7 speaks for itself. It is one of the most attractive, yet 'tough' looking cars ever sold in Australia. When combined with a larger set of wheels, a lower ride height and a 'turbo bonnet' the rx7's aesthetics are improved even further.

While the non turbo engine lacks true power out of the factory (146hp) there are a few simple and relatively cheap modifications that can be made to increase both acceleration and top speed. On my RX7 I have fitted a stainless steel high flow exhaust system and a 'ram pod' air filter. Combined with some minor computer alterations the car is now comparable with many 13b turbo vehicles. It is also cheaper to run and more reliable than comparable turbo rotary vehicles.

However, if large power gains are to be achieved a turbo motor swap is the way to go.