This 1980 Mazda RX-7 is offered for what seems like a very fair price given the impressive cosmetic condition and recent work that’s been completed. The first-generation models are by far the purest expression of Mazda’s rotary-powered wonder, even if they’re a touch underpowered by modern standards. This one benefits from rust-free bodywork, an interior with new upholstery, and a rebuilt carburetor. The Buy-It-Now price is just $9,500, which seems more than fair for an RX-7 in the sort of condition this one is in. The market for these Japanese sports cars is hit or miss in terms of what sells for a big price and what is offered up at a reasonable number, so jump on this example here on eBay if you’re looking for an affordable entry to RX-7 ownership.
The malaise era is often maligned for the variety of subpar cars that emerged from those dark years. More often than not, it was the performance that was dinged for being below the expectations of many car enthusiasts. This largely pertained to muscle cars, as the likes of the lithe and lightweight RX-7 made up for its humble power output with deft handling and a willingness to rev to the upper stratosphere. The seller mentions that his RX-7 got a proper interior refresh as part of its recent list of improvements, and the cloth bucket seats are in excellent shape. No word whether that dash pad is covering a cracked dash, however.
The rotary engine is instantly recognizable courtesy of the bright-blue air cleaner housing, a staple of RX-7s from this era. These cars love to be wound out, so keep moving if you’re seeking a sports car with lots of low-end grunt; this is not it. If you choose to go the performance route with a car like this, stick with handling improvements; the engine doesn’t exactly sound melodious when you strap a free-flowing exhaust onto it. Then again, some rotary fanatics love that nasal-y noise. The seller points out that some of the recent work includes a rebuilt carburetor and fresh tires, and that it’s equipped with factory air conditioning and a sunroof.
The Mazda’s rear liftgate is an attractive design, and I always see a bit of vintage TVR in the rear end of the RX-7. The rust-free bodywork is perhaps its greatest selling point, along with its low 75,000 original miles. Finding an early RX-7 with a very fair Buy-It-Now is getting harder to pull off as cars like these become more collectible, so strike while the iron is out if you want to get into one for less than $10,000. The RX-7 is currently in Scottsdale, Arizona and with spring around the corner, it seems like a perfect time for a cross-country drive to bring this one home if you’re not nearby.
Fun cars, had one first gen. 3 second gen and one 3rd gen RX-7’s and although not the most powerful they are great cars. This has that dumb 85 mph speedo so you can’t drive fast. Our lawmakers thought that a great idea. Anyway new owner should have some smiles added to their life with this one, power band was 4000 all the way through to 7000 rpm red line, you will hear the warning buzzer and shift.
My wife had one in the late eighties, and my 6’3″ frame fit (barely). Nice highway runner, but while early rotaries wind forever, but they lack any low end grunt.
With an age thickened body, I’m not sure I’d fit anymore, and I know I don’t want to drive it in city traffic.
I ordered a fully loaded GS 79 model in late 78 when they were previewed in every car mag of the day. Mine came in the first shipment of RX-7s to the local dealer (Gibbes VW/Mazda, now gone) in Columbia SC. Looked great, drove great. Unfortunately the AC didn’t work and the dealer could not figure out how to repair it, along with a handful of other minor bugs. It spent more time at the dealer than at my house. Sadly I sold it for a big depreciation loss after only 3 months of owning it. Essentially the same car as this 1980 model in the article. I sold my 77 Trans Am to get that turd. I’m still wahhh-ing after over 40 years.
I had a 1980 in this exact white and burgundy scheme. I actually wanted the root beer one next to it but that one sold before I got to the dealer.
Ended up loving the white….with its manual choke, big 4-barrel carb sitting on 2 tiny rotary “cylinders” (2 plugs per rotor) and 13 inch tires.
That was in 1980 and I paid about what they’re asking for this one.
Nice to see.
I’d pick this one up if I weren’t already restoring an ’82. Great price if a legit 75k miles and not 175k miles. Seems a little too good to be true considering rebuilt 12a rotary engines north of $6K using used housings.
It sold. However, one of the pictures has a note entry that states service was done with 74,395 miles in 2004. So, in 18 years it has been driven less than 700 miles….
I am still driving a 1982. Low end torque is not as bad as many people would lead you to believe. Around town, you can shift much earlier than most 4 cylinders. For more spirited driving then keep it over 3k. Brief sprints up to 8k won’t hurt it, just don’t be stupid and keep it over redline for no reason. Warning buzzer? Gee mine must have been disconnected 40 years ago! Tokico shocks & 14″ Enkei Apache wheels. Plenty of smiles per mile.
Yes, I remember the rev buzzer on mine (see comment above). Although the car was only in my ownership for a short period time, I do remember how it had no trouble at all revving right up to the redline. For a 20-yr old college kid at the time, it was a good thing and it seemed high tech. Another unique memory I had was this thing backfired like crazy when the engine was cold.
Ended with no takers, even if $9500 seemed like a bargain.
Ordered my GS early spring 79 and got it in August. Paid $7,200. Owned it 6 years, 78k miles. Sold it for $6k. Great fun and great investment.