Somewhere around here I saw a thread about breaking down what Rx7s have what features and sub-model names. The whole GXL, S4, S5 thing. I'm sure I can find it again that's not really too concerning. My question is this.

Im looking at a photo on Craigslist of an FC RX7 for sale. The description is almost non existent. It simply says "not running. $1000 " Is there a way just from looking at a picture of the outside to tell what sub-model it is?

Or more importantly is there a distinguishing feature that will tell me if it is a turbo or not? That is the model Id be most interested in. Thanks.

 

The Specifications sticky in this section or the 2nd gen tech section has scans of the dealer brochures: https://www.rx7club.com/new-member-rx-7-technical-256/specifications-what-did-2nd-generation-rx-7-come-w-options-standard-features-963417/.

S4 = '86-'88
S5 = '89-'92

The most obvious sign of a turbo is the hood scoop, but there are NAs with turbo hoods. Many parts are swappable, and that's just what people do. The only way you can tell model is by going down the checklist in the brochures to see what equipment the car has (ie alarm, suspension, brakes, etc...). But even that's no guarantee due to what I mentioned before: people swap parts all the time.

 

Hood scoop would be the most likely evidence of a turbo model at first glance.

 

Ok thanks for the info. It does not have a hood scoop so I guess its not a Turbo. I may go look at it anyway if I can get him down some more it may be worth it.

 

Popping the hood is really the best way to tell. If it was swapped to a T-II and has a v-mount or front mount the hood scoop is really not needed.

 

Just got home and checked out that link. That's not the one I saw before but that is an excellent link. Thanks very much for sharing!
Provided it hasn't been totally modified ( it looks pretty stock) comparing the picture to the sales brochures I was able to determine it is a GXL.

Its about 50 miles away from my house but the price seems to be ok compared to others listed. Do you think its worth going to take a look at. The only description provided is : "1988 Red Mazda RX-7 for sale, it's being sold for parts. $1,000" with 4 pics. It doesn't look horribly rusted out or smashed up.

Edit uptate. I just called the guy the car was broken into and a a bunch of stuff is missing and its automatic. no go. Thanks for the help anyway. I there a specific "should i buy this car "thread that I can ask dumb questions like this as a noob?

 

You can get running N/A FCs for under 1000. A good one for between 1k and 2k. FCs are cheap

Right now there are 3 running FCs on my local CL for between 1 and 2k. And a couple nice shells for around 5-600, and a v-8 swap that looks to be about 3/4ths done with all the major bolt in stuff from grannyspeed for 3500...

 

I'd stay away from automatics. They're not great, and a sports car deserves a manual. Also, if the car was broken into, you could be looking at screwed up locks, ignition, interior parts, etc...

 

He said the steering wheel was stolen! Who takes that? And he said there may be some engine parts missing but he wasn't sure. I definitely would not get an automatic zero interest.

I'm going to wait. My budget is about 500. I don't mind a fixer upper that needs work. I'd actually prefer to rebuild the engine. I've never had one apart before and would love to learn about it. But I at least need a whole car to start with