Mazda RX-7 (1978-02)

Overview: The **Mazda RX-7 (1978-2002)** was one of the most significant models in Mazda’s history, defining the brand’s identity as a **rotary-engine pioneer** and establishing its reputation for **lightweight, driver-focused sports cars**.

**Key Significance**

- **Rotary Engine Legacy**: The RX-7 was Mazda’s most successful rotary-powered car, selling **over 811,000 units**. It proved that the **Wankel rotary engine** could be viable in a mass-market sports car.

- **Motorsport Success**: The RX-7 dominated racing, winning **over 100 IMSA races in the U.S.**, the **1981 Spa 24 Hours**, and multiple **British Touring Car Championships**.

- **Lightweight & Handling**: Mazda perfected the **front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout**, creating a car with **exceptional balance and agility**.

- **Global Recognition**: The RX-7 became an **icon among enthusiasts**, competing with European and American sports cars while maintaining Mazda’s unique engineering philosophy.

- **Evolution of Mazda Sports Cars**: It paved the way for the **RX-8**, which continued the rotary legacy, and influenced Mazda’s future **MX-5 Miata** design principles.

The RX-7 wasn’t just a car—it was a statement of Mazda’s commitment to **innovation, performance, and driving joy**. *****

COMMON FAULTS 

Please Note: Common Faults in Regularly Used Vehicles vs. Low-Mileage Stored Vehicles that have been used consistently over many years, accumulating approximately 10,000–12,000 miles annually, are more prone to common faults due to regular wear and tear. These issues typically arise from the natural aging of components subjected to frequent use, such as engine parts, suspension systems, brakes, and tires. In contrast, vehicles with low mileage that have been stored or preserved are likely to experience different types of issues. These vehicles are often better maintained to ensure their longevity and may avoid some of the typical wear-and-tear problems seen in regularly driven cars. However, they can still face unique challenges such as degradation of rubber seals, corrosion from prolonged inactivity, or fuel system issues caused by old or stagnant fuel. 

The Mazda RX-7, known for its rotary engine and sporty design, has a few common issues reported by owners. Here are some of the most frequently encountered problems: 

1. Apex Seal Failure: The rotary engine’s apex seals can wear out, leading to low compression and poor engine performance. 

2. Oil Leaks: Oil leaks, particularly at the rear stationary gear seal and O-ring, are common and can lead to significant engine damage if not addressed. 

3. Starting Issues: Intermittent no-start problems, especially in turbo models, often due to a malfunctioning engine control module (ECM)3. 

4. Clutch Failure: Issues with the clutch, such as surging forward or juddering when releasing the pedal, indicating the need for a replacement. 

5. Suspension Problems: Knocking noises from the suspension, usually caused by failing rear suspension bushes. 

6. Interior Trim Issues: The interior door trim, handles, and storage pockets are prone to breaking due to poor quality. 

7. Heat Damage: Components in the engine bay can suffer from heat damage, especially in high-performance models. Regular maintenance and addressing these issues promptly can help keep your RX-7 running smoothly. 

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Generations/Trim Levels 

The Mazda RX series has seen several generations over the years, primarily focusing on the RX-7 and RX-8 models: 

1. Mazda RX-7: o First Generation (SA/FB): Produced from 1978 to 1985. o Second Generation (FC): Produced from 1985 to 1992. o Third Generation (FD): Produced from 1992 to 2002. 

2. Mazda RX-8: o Single Generation: Produced from 2003 to 2012, with a significant refresh in 2008. Each generation brought its own unique advancements and design changes, particularly with the rotary engine technology. 

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Trim levels from 1978 to 2002. 

1. **First Generation (SA/FB)**: - The **Series 1** RX-7, produced from 1978 until 1980, is affectionately known as the **SA22C** (because alphanumeric codes make everything cooler, right?). Here's what it brought to the rotary party: - **Base Model**: This was the starting point—a minimalist canvas. It came with a **12A carbureted rotary engine** humming away behind the front axle. Standard features included a limited-slip differential, a tape player (remember those?), and cloth seats. Not too shabby! - **Leathersport Models**: In May 1980, Mazda sprinkled some magic dust and introduced a limited production run of special North American models called the **Leathersport Models**. These added a touch of luxury with—you guessed it—leather upholstery. Fancy, right? 

2. **Second Generation (FC)**: - The **FC** era (1986–1991) brought more curves and even more rotary goodness. Here's what was on the menu: - **S**: The base trim, keeping things simple and sporty. - **GS**: A step up, offering a bit more pizzazz. - **GSL**: The top-tier trim, with extra features and a side of flair. Think of it as the RX-7 wearing its Sunday best. 

3. **Third Generation (FD)**: - The **FD** (1992–2002) was the RX-7's swan song, and boy, did it sing! Here's what it brought to the rotary fiesta: - **Base Model**: Still sporty, still rear-wheel-drive, but now with a **sequentially-turbocharged 13B REW engine**. Fancy tech, right? The base model was like the cool kid who didn't need to show off. - **Touring**: A bit more comfort-oriented, perfect for those long drives on twisty roads. - **R1**: The track-focused trim. Lighter, stiffer, and ready to tackle corners like a champ. - **R2**: The ultimate enthusiast's choice. Stripped-down, raw, and ready to make your heart race. And there you have it—a rotary symphony in trim levels! From the SA22C to the R2, the RX-7 left its mark on the asphalt and in our hearts. 

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Designer/Dimensions 

The **Mazda RX-7** was designed by **Matasaburo Maeda**, a prominent figure in Mazda's design history. His son, **Ikuo Maeda**, also contributed to Mazda's design legacy, including the RX-8. Here are the dimensions of the Mazda RX-7 (first generation, 1978-1985): - **Length**: 4293 mm - **Width**: 1651 mm - **Height**: 1270 mm - **Wheelbase**: 2420 mm The RX-7's design and dimensions contributed to its sporty and agile handling, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts. 

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Production Total: The **total production** of the **Mazda RX-7** from **1978 to 2002** was approximately **811,634 units**. ***** 

Price New: In 1978, the **new price** for a **Mazda RX-7** in the UK was approximately **£3,000**. Using the average inflation rate of **3.88% per year** from 1978 to 2025, **£3,000 in 1978** would be equivalent to approximately **£17,940** in 2025. 

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Sales: The **Mazda RX-7 (1978-2002)** was a **major sales success**, with over **811,000 units sold** worldwide. It was particularly popular in the **United States**, where it consistently achieved strong sales figures, especially in its early years. 

The RX-7’s success was driven by its **lightweight design, rotary engine performance, and affordability**, making it a compelling alternative to traditional piston-engine sports cars. It also gained a loyal following among enthusiasts and racers, further cementing its reputation.

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Historical Pricing Comparisons

The **Mazda RX-7 (1978-2002)** has seen significant fluctuations in value over the years, with prices varying based on generation, condition, and rarity.

**Historical Pricing Trends**

- **First Generation (SA/FB, 1978-1985)**: Originally priced around **£5,000–£7,000** when new in the UK. Today, well-maintained examples can range from **£10,000–£25,000**.

- **Second Generation (FC, 1985-1992)**: Prices started at around **£10,000** when new. Classic models now sell for **£8,000–£20,000**, depending on condition.

- **Third Generation (FD, 1992-2002)**: The most sought-after RX-7, originally priced around **£25,000–£30,000**. Today, pristine examples can fetch **£30,000–£100,000**, with rare models exceeding this.

For more detailed pricing comparisons, you can check sources like [AutoEvolution](https://www.autoevolution.com/mazda/rx-7/) and [The Classic Valuer](https://www.theclassicvaluer.com/cars/mazda/rx-7), which track historical sales data.

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Rivals: In 1978, the main rivals of the **Mazda RX-7** included the **Toyota Celica** and the **Ford Capri**. Here are their approximate new car prices: - 

**Toyota Celica**: Around **£2,800** - 

**Ford Capri**: Around **£2,600** 

These cars were popular choices in the sports car segment, offering a mix of performance and style. 

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In 1978, the main rivals of the **Mazda RX-7** included the **Toyota Celica** and the **Ford Capri**. Here are their approximate performance specifications: 

**Toyota Celica** - **Engine**: 1.6L inline-4 - **Power Output**: 104 HP / 105 PS / 77 kW @ 6000 rpm - **Torque**: 134 Nm / 98 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm - **Top Speed**: Approximately **110 mph (177 km/h)** - **Acceleration (0-60 mph)**: Around **10.5 seconds** 

**Ford Capri** - **Engine**: 2.0L inline-4 - **Power Output**: 98 HP / 100 PS / 73 kW @ 5500 rpm - **Torque**: 145 Nm / 107 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm - **Top Speed**: Approximately **110 mph (177 km/h)** - **Acceleration (0-60 mph)**: Around **11.0 seconds** 

These cars were popular choices in the sports car segment, offering a mix of performance and style. 

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Engine/s 

The Mazda RX-7 featured several different rotary engines across its three generations: 

1. First Generation (SA/FB): o 12A: A 1.1-liter twin-rotor engine producing around 100-115 horsepower. o 13B: A 1.3-liter twin-rotor engine with electronic fuel injection, available in later models. 

2. Second Generation (FC): o 13B-DEI: A naturally aspirated 1.3-liter twin-rotor engine. o 13B-Turbo: A turbocharged version of the 13B engine, producing up to 200 horsepower. 

3. Third Generation (FD): o 13B-REW: A sequentially turbocharged 1.3-liter twin-rotor engine, delivering between 252 and 276 horsepower depending on the market. These engines are known for their unique design and high-revving nature, contributing to the RX-7’s reputation as a performance car. 

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Performance 

The **Mazda RX-7** (1978-2002) offered impressive performance specifications across its various generations. Here are some key performance figures: 

**First Generation (1978-1985)** - **Engine**: 1.1L Wankel rotary engine (early models) to 1.3L Wankel rotary engine (later models) - **Power Output**: 105 HP / 106 PS / 78 kW @ 6000 rpm - **Torque**: 144 Nm / 106 lb-ft / 14.7 kgm @ 4000 rpm - **Top Speed**: Approximately **115 mph (185 km/h)** - **Acceleration (0-60 mph)**: Around **9.5 seconds** - **Fuel Consumption**: About **17 MPG (6.8 L/100 km)** combined ### 

**Second Generation (1986-1991)** - **Engine**: 1.3L Wankel rotary engine - **Power Output**: 146 HP / 148 PS / 109 kW @ 6500 rpm - **Torque**: 159 Nm / 117 lb-ft / 15.5 kgm @ 3500 rpm - **Top Speed**: Approximately **130 mph (209 km/h)** - **Acceleration (0-60 mph)**: Around **8.1 seconds** - **Fuel Consumption**: About **18 MPG (7.6 L/100 km)** combined 

**Third Generation (1992-2002)** - **Engine**: 1.3L 13B-REW twin-turbocharged Wankel rotary engine - **Power Output**: 255 HP / 253 bhp / 190 kW @ 6500 rpm - **Torque**: 294 Nm / 216 lb-ft / 29 kgm @ 5000 rpm - **Top Speed**: Approximately **155 mph (250 km/h)** - **Acceleration (0-60 mph)**: Around **5.2 seconds** - **Fuel Consumption**: About **20 MPG (11.8 L/100 km)** combined The RX-7 was known for its lightweight design, agile handling, and powerful rotary engines, making it a favorite among sports car enthusiasts. 

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Historical Advertisements & Marketing Strategy

The **Mazda RX-7 (1978-2002)** was marketed as a revolutionary sports car, emphasizing its **lightweight design, rotary engine performance, and affordability**. Mazda’s advertising strategy evolved across its three generations, adapting to market trends and consumer expectations.

**Marketing Strategy**

- **Rotary Engine Appeal**: Mazda positioned the RX-7 as a unique alternative to traditional piston-engine sports cars, highlighting the **compact and high-revving Wankel rotary engine**.

- **Performance & Handling**: Ads often emphasized the RX-7’s **front mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout**, which provided exceptional balance and agility.

- **Affordability vs. European Rivals**: Mazda marketed the RX-7 as a **cost-effective sports car**, competing with models like the **Porsche 924** and **Datsun 280ZX**.

- **Motorsport Success**: Racing victories, particularly in **IMSA and touring car championships**, were leveraged to enhance the RX-7’s reputation.

**Historical Advertisements**

- **1978 Mazda RX-7 Launch Ads**: Early advertisements focused on the **rotary engine’s smooth power delivery** and the car’s **sleek, aerodynamic design**. You can find vintage ads [here](https://www.alamy.com/mazda-rx7-1978-vintage-car-advertising-image528644664.html) and [here](https://www.pinterest.es/pin/mazda-rx7-car-advertisement-vintage-1978--844776842592942337/).

- **1980s Performance-Oriented Ads**: Mazda shifted towards a more aggressive marketing approach, showcasing the RX-7’s **racing pedigree** and **handling superiority**.

- **1990s Premium Positioning**: The third-generation **RX-7 FD** was marketed as a **high-performance sports car**, competing with the likes of the **Toyota Supra** and **Nissan Skyline GT-R**.

For a deeper dive into RX-7 commercials, check out this [video compilation](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iicgadBBOgc) of Mazda’s advertising history.

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Rarity & Collector Appeal

The **Mazda RX-7 (1978-2002)** has become a highly sought-after collector’s car, particularly due to its **rotary engine**, **lightweight design**, and **motorsport heritage**. Its rarity and appeal vary across its three generations:

**Rarity & Collector Appeal**

- **First Generation (SA/FB, 1978-1985)**: The earliest RX-7 models are becoming increasingly rare, especially in **original, unmodified condition**. Many were used in racing or modified by enthusiasts, making stock examples highly desirable.

- **Second Generation (FC, 1985-1992)**: While more common than the first generation, clean FC models—especially **Turbo II versions**—are gaining value among collectors.

- **Third Generation (FD, 1992-2002)**: The FD RX-7 is the most sought-after, with **low-mileage and well-maintained examples commanding premium prices**. Special editions, such as the **Spirit R**, are particularly rare and valuable.

The RX-7’s **rotary engine uniqueness**, **motorsport success**, and **cult following** have cemented its status as a classic. You can explore more about its collector appeal [here](https://thecarinvestor.com/is-the-mazda-rx-7-a-classic/) and [here](https://www.hagerty.co.uk/articles/buying-guides/buying-guide-mazda-rx-7-fb-1978-1985/).

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Recorded in UK 2025 

As of February 2025, it is estimated that there are approximately 800–1,100 Mazda RX-7s recorded in the UK, including both roadworthy vehicles and those declared off-road under SORN status. 

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Target Age Group

The **Mazda RX-7 (1978-2002)** was designed to appeal to a broad range of buyers, particularly those looking for a **high-performance, lightweight sports car** with a unique **rotary engine**.

**Target Audience**

- **Driving Enthusiasts**: Those seeking a **rear-wheel-drive coupe** with **sharp handling and high-revving rotary power**.

- **Young Professionals**: Buyers wanting a **stylish yet practical sports car** that stood out from conventional models.

- **Weekend Racers**: The RX-7’s success in **Japanese touring car racing** and events like **Le Mans** made it popular among amateur racers.

- **Classic Car Fans**: The RX-7’s **rotary engine innovation** and **sleek design** attracted buyers who appreciated unique engineering.

Mazda positioned the **RX-7** as a **high-performance yet accessible coupe**, offering a balance of **style, speed, and affordability**. Over its three generations, it evolved from a **lightweight sports car** to a **turbocharged performance machine**, attracting an even wider audience.

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Influence of Target Age Group

The **Mazda RX-7 (1978-2002)** was designed to appeal to a youthful, performance-driven audience, and this influenced several aspects of its **design, marketing, and sales strategy**.

**Influence on Design & Features**

- **Lightweight Sports Car Philosophy**: Mazda kept the RX-7 **compact and agile**, making it attractive to **driving enthusiasts** who valued handling over raw power.

- **Rotary Engine Innovation**: The **high-revving rotary engine** provided a unique driving experience, catering to buyers who wanted something different from conventional piston engines.

- **Affordable Performance**: Positioned as a **cost-effective alternative** to European and American sports cars, making it accessible to a wider audience.

**Influence on Marketing Strategy**

- **Racing Pedigree**: Mazda leveraged the RX-7’s **success in Japanese touring car racing** and events like **Le Mans** to appeal to performance-oriented drivers.

- **Target Audience Appeal**: Ads often highlighted features like the **rotary engine and lightweight chassis**, which resonated with buyers who wanted a **fast yet practical coupe**.

- **Showroom Appeal**: Mazda expected the RX-7 to attract buyers who wanted a **weekend racer or stylish daily driver**, reinforcing its **affordable yet high-performance image**.

Despite its **strong enthusiast following**, the RX-7 was eventually discontinued in **2002**, but it remains one of Mazda’s most iconic sports cars. 

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Parts Bin Engineering

The **Mazda RX-7 (1978-2002)** was primarily built using **Mazda-designed components**, but like many manufacturers, Mazda sourced certain parts from **third-party suppliers** and shared some elements with other brands.

**Possible Shared Components**

- **Engine & Transmission**: Mazda developed its own **rotary engines**, but some components may have been sourced from **Japanese suppliers** like **Nippon Denso** (electrical systems) and **Aisin** (transmissions).

- **Suspension & Brakes**: Mazda likely used **Tokico** or **KYB** suspension components, which were common among Japanese automakers.

- **Electrical & Fuel Systems**: Parts such as **alternators, starters, and fuel injectors** may have been supplied by **Hitachi** or **Mikuni**, which also provided components for brands like **Toyota and Nissan**.

- **Body & Trim**: Some **interior and exterior fittings** may have been sourced from **third-party suppliers** that also worked with **Honda and Mitsubishi**.

Additionally, aftermarket parts for the RX-7, such as **clutch pressure plates, water pumps, and batteries**, were supplied by brands like **Bosch, Yuasa, Exide, and Motaquip**.

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Spares/Specialists NI 

You can find Mazda RX-7 spares at several places in the UK and Ireland. Here are some options: 

1. AutoPartsPro: They offer a wide range of original RX-8 parts online with fast and free shipping available. 

2. EUspares: This site provides OE original parts for the RX-8 with various payment and shipping options. 

3. BreakerLink: They connect you with hundreds of quality breaker yards throughout the UK and Ireland to find both new and used parts. 

4. PartsGateway: Known as the UK’s #1 destination for discount car parts, they offer both new and used original Mazda RX-8 spares. 

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Specialists NI 

If you're in Northern Ireland and your beloved **Mazda RX-7** needs some rotary TLC, I've got a few options for you. Let's keep those apex seals spinning smoothly! 

1. **Jimmy's Mazda Rotary Specialists**: - Jimmy's is like the secret clubhouse for RX-7 and RX-8 owners. They're all about that rotary life! Here's what they offer: - **Advice**: Whether you're pondering the mysteries of apex seals or just need a friendly chat about your RX-7, Jimmy's has your back. - **Used Parts**: They've got a treasure trove of used parts for all models. From quirky little gaskets to more serious bits, they'll help keep your RX-7 or RX-8 purring. - **New Parts**: Need something fresh off the assembly line? They've got you covered. - **Quality Cars**: If you're in the market for a rotary-powered beauty, check out their selection. - **Diagnostic and Repair Services**: When your RX-7 throws a tantrum (it happens to the best of us), Jimmy's will diagnose and fix it. - **Contact**: You can reach them at **07584 136772** or visit their [website](http://www.jimmys-rx7.co.uk/). And hey, they even have an eBay shop—because rotary parts deserve an online auction too! 

2. **ClickMechanic**: - These folks are like the digital pit crew for Mazda owners. They connect you with expert mechanics who know their way around rotaries. Just hop onto their [Northern Ireland Mazda Mechanics page](https://www.clickmechanic.com/locations/northern-ireland/mazda) and let them work their magic. 

3. **Local Mazda Dealers**: - Sometimes, the official dealerships surprise us. Check out your [local Mazda dealership](https://www.mazda.co.uk/dealers/northern-ireland/)—they might have rotary enthusiasts hiding in the service bays, armed with wrenches and smiles. 

4. **AutoVillage**: - If you're on the hunt for used RX-7s or just want to explore the rotary scene, AutoVillage has your back. Check out their [Used Mazda RX-7 Cars for Sale in Northern Ireland](https://www.autovillage.co.uk/used-car/local/northern-ireland/cars/mazda/rx-7) section. Who knows? Maybe you'll find your next rotary love there! 

5. **Approved Garages**: - These folks specialize in MOTs, servicing, and repairs for Mazda vehicles. Find a trusted and reliable car service provider near you on their [Mazda page](https://www.approvedgarages.co.uk/mot-servicing-and-repairs/car-brands/mazda/). Your RX-7 will thank you! Remember, when you find that perfect garage, give your RX-7 a little pat on the hood from me. And if you hear a faint rotary hum, it's probably just Jimmy's RX-7 whispering secrets to the wind. 

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Racing 

The **Mazda RX-7** wasn't just a stylish street cruiser; it also had a fiery alter ego on the racetrack. Buckle up, because we're about to hit the apex of its racing career! 

1. **Daytona Dominance**: - When the first-generation Mazda RX-7 hit the scene in 1978, it was like a rotary-powered comet streaking across the racing sky. At the **1979 24 Hours of Daytona**, the RX-7s made their debut and pulled off a jaw-dropping **1-2 finish in class**. Imagine those little rotary engines humming in harmony as they tore around the track! - But wait, there's more: The RX-7s didn't stop there. They went on to **win IMSA's GTU production-based racing class** not just once, not twice, but **seven years in a row**! Talk about rotary resilience. 

2. **GTO Glory**: - The RX-7 wasn't content with just GTU victories. Nope! It decided to flex its rotary muscles in the **GTO championship** as well. And guess what? It clinched the title an **incredible 10 years in a row**. That's like winning the rotary Olympics—gold medals galore! 

3. **Privateers and Podiums**: - American privateers (those gutsy independent racers) fell head over heels for the RX-7. They fielded their own rapid RX-7s, and suddenly, Mazda became the secret sauce for success in the category reserved for cars with engines under 2.5 litres. - Picture this: RX-7s slicing through corners, their rotary engines singing a high-revving symphony. Podiums were their second home. 

The **Mazda RX-7** wasn't content with conquering local tracks; it spread its rotary wings and took on the world. Let's dive into its international racing adventures! 

1. **Daytona Glory**: - Picture this: The year is 1979, and the Mazda RX-7 is strutting its stuff at the **Daytona 24 Hours**. Guess what? It not only participated but also **won the GTU class**! That's like the RX-7 winking at the competition and saying, "Rotary power, baby!" - But wait, there's more: In 1981, at the **Spa 24 Hours** in Belgium, the RX-7 achieved something truly special—it nabbed **Mazda's first outright 24-hour race win**. Driven by Pierre Dieudonné and Tom Walkinshaw, the RX-7 made history. Imagine the rotary engine humming through the Ardennes forest—sheer magic! 

2. **IMSA Dominance**: - The RX-7 didn't just dip its toe; it cannonballed into the **IMSA racing scene** in the United States. Here's where it truly made its mark: - **GTU Class**: The RX-7 racked up an **unmatched 100 wins** in just 12 years of IMSA competition. That's like a rotary symphony echoing across American racetracks. - **GTO Championship**: Not satisfied with GTU victories alone, the RX-7 went on to claim the **GTO championship** for an incredible **10 consecutive years**. It was like the RX-7 had a permanent reservation on the winner's podium. 

The **Mazda RX-7** wasn't content with merely conquering local tracks; it spread its rotary wings and took on the world, including the European racing scene. Let's dive into its international racing adventures! 

1. **Le Mans and Spa Triumphs**: - The RX-7 made its motor racing debut in **1979** at the **Le Mans 24 Hours**. Impressive enough, it finished **21st overall**, holding its own against formidable competition. But it was in **1981** that the RX-7 truly made headlines. - For its annual assault on Le Mans, the factory team Mazdaspeed unveiled the **RX-7 253**. This beast featured streamlined bodywork and a more potent **300bhp twin-rotor 13B engine**. At the **Silverstone 6-Hours race**, Englishman Win Percy nearly pulled off a remarkable feat. Despite starting at the back, he worked his way up to second place, only to be thwarted by a turbo-troubled Porsche. Still, the RX-7 won the GTU class and finished eighth overall. It could have been even better! - A few weeks later at Le Mans, a differential failure dashed their hopes. But within a decade, Mazda would triumph outright in the world's greatest sports car race. And in the meantime, plenty of other people witnessed the RX-7's prowess on the other side of the Atlantic. 

2. **Consistent Success in America**: - Competing in the **GTU class** (for cars with engines smaller than 2.5 liters), the RX-7 achieved remarkable feats: - It won the **24 Hours of Daytona** on its first attempt in **1979**. - It secured the **GTU championship** for **seven consecutive years**. - From **1982**, it also dominated the **GTO class** (for cars with engines bigger than 2.5 litres) for an astounding **10 consecutive seasons**. - Even as class structures evolved, the RX-7's success remained undiminished—it has won more **IMSA races** than any other model in history. 

3. **Rallying Exploits**: - While its track exploits are well-documented, the RX-7's rallying adventures are less known. In **1984**, it was homologated for the **Group B category** of rallying. - Unlike other Group B cars (which were four-wheel drive), the RX-7 was **rear-wheel drive**. Nonetheless, it recorded successes, including winning the **1984 Polish round** of the European Rally Championship. - Perhaps even more notable was its **third-place finish** on the **1985 World Rally Championship Acropolis event**, piloted by Ingvar Carlsson. 

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Valuation 

The value of a **Mazda RX-7** in the UK in 2025 can vary depending on its condition, mileage, and original features. Generally, prices range from **£3,140 to £21,944** for well-maintained examples. 

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Clubs 

There are Mazda owners clubs operating in Northern Ireland! One notable club is the **Mazda Car Club of Northern Ireland**, which organizes events, meets, and activities for Mazda enthusiasts. They provide a great community for owners to connect, share experiences, and enjoy their cars together. 

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