Hi everyone,

My name is Ryan and I just made my account. I'm a 19 year old in search of a second car, a sports car. I'm looking for something fast but that won't break the bank. My budget is around $15-$20k. I've always loved FD rx7s but I recently started looking at 03/04 mustang svt cobra terminators, due to the power and reliability. I'm still in love with the FD rx7s but I know they're money pits. Does anyone have any advice to someone who is looking into buying their first rx7? Things to look out for, the do and do nots, how to make them reliable, any information that can help.

Thank you all,
Ryan

 

Ryan, just remember a few basics and you should be fine.

1. Any older car, especially a performance car, is going to be a money pit to some degree. Don't fool yourself, a 12+ year old Ford is going to need the same sort of attention your RX7 may be due for again (steering/suspension overhaul, brakes, bushings/mounts, fluids, etc). After all, you're talking about a Ford here .
2. I would not recommend getting into something that someone has already had their hands all over, especially if you're not very familiar with these cars. With your budget, you should be able to get into a nearly stock car, which is going to save you a lot of headache. Just read some of these new tech threads where people get in over their heads because they were wide-eyed and short on cash; they've got basket cases that they don't possess the skills or knowledge to set straight.
3. From the factory, these cars can become overwhelming from a service standpoint due to the complication of the vacuum/solenoid system (rats nest) and other late 80's design cues. If you're willing to put in the time to read and learn from the FSM, as well as threads more senior members have published, you will be okay.

 

Awesome thank you! I used to be an intern at an import tuning shop and they specialized in mazdas rotary so I know a little but not nearly enough to support myself with the car. But I'll definitely take a look into all of the other forums and do some reading. Thanks for the heads up

 

Also, clarify if that budget is simply for the car purchase, or an all inclusive budget for the near future? I ask because when you first get the car you will more than likely need to do some preventative maintenance (search reliability mods) which will set you back some coin. Keep that in mind.

 

Go to the FAQ sticky in the 3rd gen tech section and scroll down to "B"...you'll see several links with info about the car, whether it's a good choice for YOU and "Buying".

 

go with the FD, life is too short not to have one lol

 

It will cost you less to buy a car in tip top shape than to buy a cheaper one and bring it up to snuff. Drive it, check the service records, and get an independent second expert evaluation. Pretty much goes for all cars.

One thing in particular these are sensitive to is overheating. Budget enough to do some reliability upgrades like a good radiator and downpipe in addition to changing all fluids. Be ready to invest considerable time into becoming your own expert on the car, there just aren't enough good shops around.

Fun cars, handle well, and they do seem to grab desired attention! Enjoy!

 

get a fd! don't be a "me too" guy. "you have a mustang? ohh me too".

 

true true!
i take my FD's out here and there. EVERY time i do, young kids (i'm talking ages 6-20) stop and gawk at it having no clue what it is. I usually ask them how old they think the car is....and they always think it's a couple years old at most. I then reply and say....you like classics! This thing is older than you....by ALOT!

 

Dont buy the FD without knowing what you can expect.

It's a labor of love to own and upkeep one of these cars.

Dont expect to buy one and drive it without putting in work on preventive maintenance.

 

true ^^^^

expect to spend time on this forum lurking around finding answers for your problems.
Great community though and lot of local people to help you too I'm sure.

 

Helloguys… sorry for disturbing



Im a new blog member.So im still learning how to use it.


I have a little question….I was wondering what are some of the popular swaps that go into a Mazda RX7 Savanna 1982 (1st generation) I'm looking for something with turbo and that has lots of HP. I would also like to know if there are some possible JDM engine swaps? I’m not an expert so sincerely I have no idea….I’m just trying to help a good friend of mine. Any information regarding engine choice, best engine, price, convenience, advices are all well welcomed. I apologize for my ignorance ahead in time. PLEASE HELP ME…. thank you and i appologize again for the disturb.

 

Hello guys… sorry for disturbing you...


Im a new blog member.So im still learning how to use it.


I have a little question….I was wondering what are some of the popular swaps that go into a Mazda RX7 Savanna 1982 (1st generation) I'm looking for something with turbo and that has lots of HP. I would also like to know if there are some possible JDM engine swaps? I’m not an expert so sincerely I have no idea….I’m just trying to help a good friend of mine. Any information regarding engine choice, best engine, price, convenience, advices are all well welcomed. I apologize for my ignorance ahead in time. PLEASE HELP ME…. thank you and i appologize again for the disturb.

 

Any used vehicle will have its problems, and with rotary engines that can get pricey. If you have mechanical skills and some extra money though rx7s are worth it. mine is 26 years old and I get excited every time I get to drive it. If you prefer to own a piston vehicle that's understandable but there is more potential for parts to break since you have so many moving parts

 

thank you for replying