This 1982 Mazda RX7 is a rare Pacific Avatar convertible conversion that’s also sporting a wicked wide body and some other period modifications that make it a sharp looker (or an extremely useful parts car). However, it’s in running, driving condition and should be restored, provided the unique parts of the conversion – like the convertible top – don’t prove too hard to find. Find this unusual RX7 listed here on craigslist for $8,500.
The top and windows are going to be an issue for the next owner, as I doubt the aftermarket conversion company still has extras sitting on the shelf. Supposedly, less than 150 of these widened, drop-top Mazdas were made, as the project was axed when the company learned Mazda planned to introduce a convertible of its own. This example has been off the road since 1991 and while it does run, the tank needs the old gas drained and the carb needs tuning.
Many of these conversions were also turbocharged, but it doesn’t appear this one is. Still, it came with the awesome three-piece wheels you see here and the custom paint, along with what sounds like a booming period sound system. Online reports state that the two primary markets for these cars were California and Florida, so it’s not surprising to see this one in New Hampshire, perhaps brought back by a snowbird. The interior pictures are lacking but it appears to be a very pretty cardinal interior.
The engine looks relatively stock, and no specifics are offered on what is clearly an aftermarket suspension. From what I can ascertain from scattered online reports, these conversions were somewhat crude, with lots of body filler used and the wiring hacked up to make the sound system work. The tops are non-existent but can be re-created from scratch if a good mold is available, but regardless, bringing this car back will be a labor of love with a limited market that appreciates the effort. Would you restore it?
I would not want this car, but if I did the first thing I’d look for is a donor car to get the original roof back. I’d also want to replaced that rotory crap engine with something else. A V6 Mazda engine would do. The car itself looks to be in reasonable condition and would be fun to drive, it really doesn’t get me amped up top much though.
Lots of people swap 4.3’s and 350’s into these. But, this is a piece of history and it’d really be better to leave the rotary in there. When they’re not turbo they last forever and still move these things pretty darn good.
Rotary crap engine eh? Lol
Replace the top eh? Lol
Just buy a Dodge Neon and don’t ruin a piece of automotive history!
Beautiful car and should be preserved!
“Beauty Is In The Eye Of the Beholder” in this case.
Its like an RX7 did a bunch of cocaine………
And died of an overdose with the body not being found for three weeks!
Merry Christmas!
It was the “Go, go” ‘ 80’s-
Looks like a mclaren mustang top. I like the car and the rotary-
Yes, it’s gaudy and a bit ridiculous. But clean it up a little, and it would be such a great car to take to a Radwood event. I like this more than I should.
Cool!
I love all things rotary. This one makes me want to grow my mullet back!
I like the wheels and the ????….. Nope that’s it. just the wheels
here is a picture of what is going on with the fender tops
http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_images/3/2721/561/31800280018_original.jpg
Yeah I am liking this car. I would have been loving it back in the 80’s. That thing was a serious chic magnet back then. But I have better things to spend all that money on. LOL