Mazda : RX-7 GS/GSL-SE

  The reason a first generation Rx7 was chosen for resto-modification was simply because it's one of the last Japanese rear wheel drive sports cars still available today that can match or better the performance of the many newer cars being offered. For example. there's the Scion FR-S and Subaru's BRZ. the Older Rx-7 performance numbers weren't really competitive when compared to these examples right out of the box. but with minor modifications it became capable of outperforming or matching them and at a fraction of the cost. With huge aftermarket support from available from companies like Racing Beat and Mazdatrix increasing the performance levels wasn't that hard of a task. These companies have specialized in increasing performance out of rotaries for  decades. I was lucky enough to find an unmolested. ne-owner car with low miles out of California that showed no signs of rust or abuse. It even had the original bill of sale and the owners manual in the glove box. Another big plus was that it was a GS model. which meant it was equipped with the more reliable 12A rotary and weighed less than the more powerful GSL-SE model by at least 200lbs!  It was the perfect starting point. To become competitive in the modern sport cars market the braking and handling was to be improved.   This was accomplished by installing the bigger more powerful braking system out of the high Performance model(GSL-SE) which added rear ventilated disc Brakes and LSD (limited slip)along with thicker sway bars and a more useable wheel bolt pattern. Another Notable upgrade was the installation of stiffer springs and shocks and  the replacement of all worn out rubbers and endlinks. including motor mounts. Once all component were installed a better wheel and tire setup was chosen.  authentic Volk Racing TE37's and BF Goodrich Comp2 tires.   This combo really increased traction and gave it a more aggressive stance. It now seemed like the car begged to be driven harder from the second you get behind the wheel and turn the key. With the handling and braking improved. it was time to focus on power and reliability. Starting with a complete tune-up and changing the hoses. belts. and fluids. Servicing the A/C and replacing the oil pan gasket. Then I installed a Racing Beats Header and exhaust system combo and  dropped in a K&N air Filter over the factory Carburetor.  I didn't de-smog the engine because the car came from California and  I didn't want the new  owner having any issues with emissions. Once completed the difference in performance and sound was huge. Giving it similar performance of the larger fuel injected Motor(13b) provides and while shedding additional weight. (About 35 ILBS). With the car running strong I then moved on to improving comfort and curb appeal and removed and replaced all rubber seals and trim pieces to have the car Painted Matte Red. As for comfort the seats were replaced with new leather seats and the original radio and speakers replaced with newer and better sounding components that provided modern touches like Bluetooth Connectivity without bogging the vehicle down with unwanted weight. I drove the car for two months daily searching for weak points needing improving. I came across a minor issue with night time visibility and addressed that problem by upgrading the headlights with modern Led Projector units. This car is lots of fun and its seems like I'm always looking for a reason to get behind the wheel and drive. I hope the car finds a new owner deserving of the work and effort I've invested into making this classic fun again.

Also published at eBay.ca

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