Mazda FD RX-7 Review // Legendary Car, Crazy Price

The 1993 Mazda RX7 is a beloved and mechanically unique Japanese icon. It utilizes a lightweight yet powerful sequentially-turbocharged rotary engine, making a strong 255 horsepower from just 1.3 litres. And thanks to this light engine, along with Mazda’s obsession with saving weight, this ‘90’s high-revving sports coupe weighed very little from the factory. Today we have a near pristine example that is completely unmodified and has very low kilometers. So how is it to drive the legendary FD RX7 in like-new stock form? Thomas and James are excited to find out! We hope you enjoy the episode! And then subscribe, silly.
Editor: Karston Chong
Sound: Harrison Dickson and Karston Chong
Magical Genius Logistics Planners: James Engelsman and Joey Alford
EXTRA THROTTLE HOUSE!
/ extrathrottlehouse
Throttle House Merch!
www.thethrottlehouse.com/merc...
Instagram!
/ thethrottlehouse
Facebook!
/ thomashollandproductions
#Mazda #RX7 #Rotary

[@LabibManzar]

Out of all the legendary jdm cars, I think the RX 7 truly the most breathtakingly gorgeous. Truly a timeless design

[@C.Fecteau-AU-MJ13]

Agree... They nailed that one right out of the box.

[@scottcarter2362]

I'd argue the FD RX7 and NA1 NSX type R are the prettiest Japanese cars of the 90s. Both very different but equally special and exquisite.

[@Rekkless]

The FD RX7 and the S15 Silvia are easily the two best looking JDM cars from the 90's / 2000's. Maybe even ever.

[@DreamDestinations123]

@@Rekkless agree 100%

[@boofingenthusiast]

Same. Although the FC is my favorite these days. Grew on me until beating the FD

[@RobDahm]

I am a little biased but I’ve been obsessed with the timeless looks of the car. Having the lead designer explain his reasoning for the various lines was mind blowing. It is a good example of a car that wasn’t chopped up by bureaucracy.

[@dakel7]

It just needs an LS swap than it's perfect

[@Holmesson]

​@@dakel7*SACRILEGE!!!!!!*

[@andrewable2634]

nuh uh@@dakel7

[@noblenugget2593]

We got one in the shop i work at, and in person, the look of these cars are drop dead gorgeous. I wanted one before, but now it's like a hunger 😅

[@ScottBullard]

Oh hey, look, it’s that guy who’s single-handedly responsible for sky-high RX-7 prices! 👋 (For your sake, Rob, I really do hope you have a warehouse full of these somewhere, and that your secret master plan is to dole them out, drip by drip, to fund the construction of your inevitable, eventual, sprawling billet rotary engine manufacturing / cat rescue facility campus.)

[@bpowick]

The FD RX-7 is one of the most timeless car designs, ever. That car looks like it could've just arrived on the market this year and the design would still be ahead of its time (maybe apart from the pop up headlights😁) . It is honestly one of the most beautiful cars ever made.

[@JohnThomWebb]

Agreed!

[@taylorc2542]

It is an epic design, but that's the only stellar thing about it. The performance and chassis dynamics are good, but do not live up to the hype. The engine is unique, but not in an objectively good way. The handling and controls are good, but not up to even S2000 levels. You buy it because it looks incredible, and for that perfect IP.

[@bpowick]

@@taylorc2542 Honestly, and I don’t mean to offend any rotary fans here, if I owned one of these the first thing I’d do is engine swap it to save myself the inevitable future maintenance headaches and costs.

[@TheCth777]

I mean it looks pretty clearly 90s haha

[@yankee2yankee216]

Pop-up headlights seem old-fashioned because they have been outlawed. The safety people decided they are too dangerous for pedestrians (the Miata NA’s pop-ups, being square with sharp corners, must be about the worst that way). If they hadn’t been banned, they would probably still be making them, and they would seem much more contemporary.

[@neuronbob]

As a 90’s NSX owner, I appreciate the FD as one of its contemporary competitors. What a beautiful, fun car. Thanks for the video.

[@3rayallen]

Why do you Americans always have to passively aggressively flex what you own? No one cares you own a NSX. This video is about the RX-7.

[@desertsavagery]

Was the FD really meant as a competitor? I mean the FD was an epic sports car and mine blowingly still manages to be one today, but the NSX was aimed at knocking the exotic car market off its axis which it did.

[@VQSeries]

​@@desertsavageryThis calls for an all-around comparison video!

[@mndlessdrwer]

They're both utterly gorgeous and timeless cars. I personally prefer the NSX for a variety of reasons, but who would complain about being presented with either of them?

[@thenotoriousc8846]

Ok groupie

[@CharthusWayne]

Crazy how the FD RX7 is over 20 years old and is still respected by many as one of the best JDM cars to date

[@Rekkless]

It's almost 30 years old.

[@calvinDy]

@@Rekkless the '93 models are 30 years old

[@papa_pt]

like a half dozen other JDM cars from the 90s?

[@jeremy_yyds]

That means JDM is dying...

[@alexandertoback5553]

How is that crazy; all the revered jdm cars near this age

[@ChristianLeeTri]

Learned about lift-throttle oversteer (the hard way) in my buddy's 1993 RX-7 back in the day. Almost wrote it off. What an absolute blast to drive.

[@motofunk1]

Took my 89 Integra for that ride a few times as well.

[@chriscosgrove1516]

@@motofunk1happened to me in a b swapped 91 crx. New tires in the front, ten year old bald ones in the back, hauling ass around the corner and let off. Spun out a full 180 like nothing. Luckily no damage

[@aryaahmadi4029]

@@chriscosgrove1516 That's also how I learned why pro racers say things like "keep your foot in it"

[@bookaloo]

I learned in my rx7 on summer tires in could weather

[@aldairperez5464]

Driving a stock FD RX7 that's in great condition and seeing the views of the forest this time of year, you guys are living the dream. Keep up the great work, guys. 💪

[@KvngKirikou]

Fr!

[@nabeelsherazi8860]

I think this goes under-mentioned, but I want to write an appreciation post to you guys for always including a quick "case-file" photo of a car when you mention it for comparison. When I was first getting into car culture, it was SO invaluable because I didn't know any cars! So when someone would mention a La Ferrari or a 992 Turbo I'd have no idea what that was or what it looked like. But you guys make it so beginner approachable. Now I know all these cars but I just wanna say THANK YOU for doing that and making it easier for me to become a car nut. It did not go unappreciated.

[@buckwheatley1520]

It will only go up in value. Wonderful car I got to test drive one in 2000. I still remember how amazing it was.

[@mr.2cents.846]

The good ole dayz eh?

[@hishamalzagezoug1585]

a masterpiece ahead of its time. the japanese in cars were in a different timeline

[@tanaka90]

Honestly from that point on why buy anything not Japanese

[@Welcometofacsistube]

​@tanaka90 There are a plethora of reasons

[@hondaman8648]

​@@Welcometofacsistubeand end up with some American branded junk?

[@RealGreyGhost]

@@Welcometofacsistube You mean overly bloated and heavy and uses metric tons of horsepower to make up for the added weight? Look, I briefly owned many high HP american cars.... C6 ZR1, Charger Demon, Viper T/A.... but you dont get as much attention driving those, than you do a classic Japanese sports car thats in mint condition like my 25k mile FD RX-7, or my 40k mile MK4 Supra that stay in my garage in those car bubbles. Even better than that, is my other FD RX-7 that has around 300k miles on the chassis, has a junkyard engine with around 150k miles with a large single turbo putting down 550hp on E85 and embarrasses practically everything on the road because the power to weight is that good. So good that it just edges out against a stock Hellcat, and sounds a lot better doing so.

[@Welcometofacsistube]

​@RealGreyGhost lol no you didn't. Sit back down, son

[@jax1079]

These were always such pretty cars. I feel really fortunate to have been going from middle to high school when we had the RX-7, 300 ZX, and Supra all on our roads at the same time. What a time to be alive. What a glorious car. Fantastic video, guys. Love watching you geek out about these amazing niche vehicles and their impact on the culture.

[@wbwayne8887]

Right there with you. It was definitely a special time. Here's hoping with the Prelude Concept unveiling that the 2dr Coupe wars are about to start heating up again. 🤷

[@jax1079]

@@wbwayne8887 Fingers crossed 🤞🏻

[@gatorpaul300]

This is so true. I spent my teen years drooling over a neighbor's 300zx and my first car out of college was 350z. The teenager forever inside of me was so proud.

[@_ph4nt0mzz_47]

​@@gatorpaul300lol im currently 18 and i have been drooling ever since i saw one about 4-5 years ago in person. It looks amazing stock, if i had one, i almost wouldn't tastefully widebody it. Almost.

[@omnimoeish]

I got to race my friend's '87 300ZX in my '88 RX-7. Very close but he won. I sold it because the thing was a joke to keep up with mechanically. Crazy its worth more now than back then.

[@papapetad]

That gauge cluster is special AF...and yes...the FD aged beautifully. One of the most coherent designs ever to come out of Japan, easy top 3 contender in my book.

[@deluxeaux2244]

Yall needa start doing more classic cars more!! Do a review on the R32!

[@volvo09]

Can't believe you found a stock one in such great shape!

[@namelyssactual1205]

This video hits ultra hard as a previous owner of a '93 and a '94 RX7. One of, if not, the most intoxicating driving experiences I've ever had. The car is just a perfect balance of feel, sound and engagement. Although a headache, the maintenance is 1000% worth it.

[@afterburn2600]

I knew a girl in the late 90s who owned one of these twin turbo RX7s. I unfortunately did not get to drive it because every dude who she had handed the keys over to had spun it. But I did get to ride in it, and this video brings me right back 25 years later. Thanks for the awesome stuff - you never fail to deliver.

[@imilegofreak]

Those turning rev shots are masterfully made. Congrats to the cinematographer!

[@the_deee]

That intro was such so comedy, same energy as the GR86 intro, great video as always

[@AndreAlforque]

the extra outro was the perfect bookend! poor james... 💸

[@dumbotterlover2558]

The C5 had to take alot of inspiration from this. They both have alot of the right curves and are just pinnacles of design from their eras.

[@TimSlee1]

True, i'd argue the Targa Top C5 is just as timeless (and much more affordable).

[@xuananator]

I once saw one driving around my city. It was certainly a project car, and had a couple panels other colours. But the owner had a huge wing, roll cage and a noisy exhaust. It was the first time I got to hear the rotary engine in real life and it was even cooler than I thought it would be.

[@bk138gt6]

That blue color on the Miata is sublime

[@clemsonguy99]

This brings back so many memories. Totally agree about the mods. A better exhaust and some coilovers really changes the experience. Thad said, it’s a really expensive car to operate. It eats oil and gas like both were infinitely available at a free buffet. Still, it’s just a beautiful car. Every time I see one it’s like I just encountered a big foot. I just can’t take my eyes off it.

[@CarlVandenberg]

I had a RX-3 back in the late 70's that my parents bought used for my first car. That car was a blast to drive, but I used to joke that when I went to the gas station I would fill it with oil and check the gas.

[@judahdavid8682]

"'Nicely phrased,' replied the eagle door knocker"

[@Kingofthehill84]

You should buy type RS model instead.

[@dreday547]

I have an all original, down to the tires, 94 RX-7 with 12,200 miles. I've had it since July 2001. The styling on this car is truly a head of its time.

[@arrivendrive6831]

I am a Fd owner and video creator and I can say this video was well done and the review of the Fd was spot on.

[@nunyazz]

I had a 92 touring version. Sadly not a manual, but it was super fast and badass. Oh and the Bose sound system was amazing. Anyone who rode with me we amazed... I miss her...

[@richarddaniel2096]

I always feel torn when I see amazing content like this that gives the FD the praise it deserves. On one hand, it deserves every ounce of love it gets. On the other, I don't want them to get more expensive LOL. :(

[@nejcmavec]

Did anybody see the recreation of a legendary supra meme at 7:30, hilarious. You guys are the best, please keep it up.

[@johnnny5veeoxx]

I have a 93 black touring with beige interior, 38k miles and it’s a literal anti-depressant. It’s away for the winter currently, but watching this video gets me so enthralled for next spring. I always turn back to look at it when I park and smile, or even just stop look at it in the garage with a spark in the heart.

[@crashmstr]

I had a used 79 RX-7 in high school and for years after (until the apex seals went and it would have needed a full rebuild or new engine). That only had 100 HP and went through oil like crazy, but I loved it and the way you really had to work the revs to get it to go fast. I really wanted one of these when they came out.

[@IsaacSchultz-lz8jc]

You know how many miles before the seals blew?

[@crashmstr]

@@IsaacSchultz-lz8jc I got it around 40k or 50k and drove it through 110k miles or a bit more, I think. It… “ran”, but clouds of white smoke and no power was the best my local Mazda service center could do without talking about spending a very large amount of money compared to how much was paid for the car.

[@davisflyer]

I owned an 85 RX-7 GSL. Even though it was pretty slow, it was a ton of fun to drive! I could literally get sideways shifting to 2nd gear, lol. It was great looking, inside and out. The only things I didn't like were the manual steering which was heavy and had zero feel, the abysmal gas mileage, but gas was cheap!, and the oil consumption.

[@crashmstr]

@@davisflyer My 79 averaged 13 - 15 MPG with 75 cu. in. and 4-barrel carb in that model. Top speed was about 114 mph in 4th gear (and slower in 5th). But yes, so much fun to drive.

[@chrism635]

Loving all the puns in this video. From the AA type start to the "is that a supra" guy in the background. Awesome content guys, really well done!

[@dpajc056]

30 years later and it still looks and drives better than most cars on the road 😢 we want you back RX7!!!

[@endlessquiver]

Love these retrospectives on classic icons, helps younger gearheads like me understand what made these cars I've heard so much about so special. Phenomenal videos TH, they just keep getting better

[@DavidJCarrell]

I had the pleasure of owning an ‘88 and a ‘95. I owned them at the same time and used the ‘88 as a daily. I still think the ‘95 is the best looking car of all time.

[@TheRebuilt1]

and the Turbo II in white

[@basicgunbros4332]

Shame we didn’t get the later versions in the USDM like the Spirit R or Type RS. I owned an 07 grand touring RX8 and I have fond memories of that car. Rotaries can be finicky though, still fun

[@victoryveshinojosa]

I drove an FD RX7 20 years ago & drove a NA Miata about 17 years ago. Mazda really knows how to make these little gems of fun sports cars. I daily drive an '09 Mazda 3 2.3s. Not a sports car but at 2700 lbs with multi-link suspension, still enjoyable.

[@amilcarcuevasjr313]

Btw u guys rock. It’s not just the cars. We love the cars but your personalities and how you play off of each other is what makes you guys special. Keep working I’ll keep watching.

[@fork5836]

The FD is my all time dream car just love the timeless design

[@r3d-1truth17]

Although I just watched your video, I had to come back to make a comment for your team. Great Job! I feel that you guys have captured an automotive perspective that is unique and special. Keep those intros, and please make more that flow into the outros. I am always smiling when I view it, and the amount of creativity you all put into these marvels keeps us (*the audience) thrilled and laughing heavily in the gut! Please make sure that you include those wonderful laugh-factory starts and endings, to keep the competition on their toes and going back to the drawing boards. Thanks as always, and Cheers! Oh yeah, how about more road trips? Come down through Wisconsin, and have some beers, brats, and bowling - first & possibly second rounds on me!

[@TheBillykurtz]

7:25 had to rewatch this section to hear what Thomas acutely said because I was so focused on James! Great review.

[@migueldelosreyes2125]

I'm always amazed on how you guys keep things fun and engaging with the perfect ballance of internet references and technical stuff. It's the best part of my days. You guys knock it out of the park every single time consistently. Thanks for the great entertainment. A great shout-out to all the crew too. You guys are the best.

[@Maplecook]

My friend group and I all have cars like the group depicted here. We live the real life version of this. It's GLORIOUS, and I wouldn't change it for the world!

[@illuminatidestroyerbear2231]

I had a FC when I was teenager and loved that car. This is a dream car for me, ah well, maybe one day.

[@HoldenOn]

I remember when these came out. Looked like nothing else on the road. I still think it's the best looking car of the 1990s. Weird, temperamental drive train, but would you just look at it!

[@greggougeon4422]

A Top ten car design ever. In my opinion

[@desmondmitchell5387]

Yeah in person it is drop dead gorgeous

[@jimiverson3085]

The NSX is a seriously good looking car, too.

[@anthonyreed480]

Ooooooooh would you look at it?! Look at this. Look at it. Oooo look at it!

[@HoldenOn]

@@jimiverson3085 Would totally rather have a first gen NSX over the FD. Much better car. But that FD...my god.

[@simonmorty8344]

That intro and ending totlally hillirous guys! Love the later Rx7 so timeless but agree needs a few minor tweaks and modifications which you normally wouldn't say if a classic. Surely will only will go up in value! I can't believe it's 30 years old! James, love your MX5 looks so cool and great color combo. Great job, as always, Throttle House!

[@courtney5796]

I had an '83 Rx7 Gsl SE. Stupid fun little car!!! So fun I wrecked it within a year. On my behalf, my brain was still growing when I had it.

[@lazykraxy]

RX-7 GOES SO HARD

[@C.Fecteau-AU-MJ13]

If you wanna see wild rotaries, Australia is the place to come... There's such an awesome culture of fast Mazdas down unda.

[@somerandomfella]

Promaz 🔥

[@ZeroTheoryCollective]

Throttle House x Mighty Car Mods

[@C.Fecteau-AU-MJ13]

@@somerandomfella Their blue RX-8 is still out there kicking arses... Fuckin' wild car. PAC performance are top of the tree though, if I'm not mistaken. They're both at the cutting edge of rotary powertrains though, a credit to Aussie engineering and race car culture.

[@moggyduck]

Pulse Performance Race Engineering is where its at so many mental cars

[@darianistead2239]

​​@@moggyduckP.P.R.E is New Zealand, not Australia. But yes, they've built some insane rotaries.

[@gw4886]

Heck, 255hp was a lot of power for a lightweight car, back in the 90's.

[@matthewstapleford7774]

As a GR86 owner, I love that the 'BRZ twins' are the current benchmark for fun and value.

[@zydomason]

twins and nd2. We are lucky, aren't we

[@jacobschechtman76]

As a FD RX7 owner, the car I keep coming back to is a 1st gen brz. Keep your car!

[@apocalypse487]

​@@zydomasongonna buy a nd2 in a couple of years. Gonna get it wrapped too.

[@popdatclutch3010]

I’m boutta switch from a civic to a brz 💪🏽

[@RiceRyder]

I really really miss my FD! Best balanced chassis and power-to-weight ratio in factory form which is why I bought it over the Supra and 3000GT. Don't care about what they say about the 1.3 rotary engine, never given me any problems. Once you drive the FD, you will understand. Ohhh the Bose Sound Wave was amazing!

[@Hearty_June]

There arent many rx-7s where I live and I saw it in real life only once. It was black and almost stock. I really liked it when I saw it online but in that moment I fell in love. And I still think rx-7 is the most beautiful car in the world. I wasnt sure if you would ever feature it so it was such a nice surprise to see a new video and rx-7 in the thumbnail. I hope to maybe own one at some point but for now just gonna enjoy another amazing throttle house video

[@durkio1536]

Bro. The way you spoke about the Mazda RX 7 was spot on. Well said ma man. You’re videos are so well done you’re getting one more subscriber. ❤

[@danielvandersall6756]

What I remember most about driving an RX-7 is the major adjustment in using the rev range--no more shifting low. The torque doesn't fall off--it just grows and grows. I had several overpriced modifications on mine, and could come close to a 4-second 0-60. Oh, and I looked cool. So cool.

[@DmitriyKnight]

Both intro and outro are so great 😂 And the video, as always, just awesome! Thank you, TH team!

[@maxcactus7]

Wonderful RX-7 review! Now can we get a full video on James' gorgeous new MX-5? I know it's wrapped, but that NEEDS to be a factory color from Mazda!

[@toiletthinker8693]

They had 5 minutes of it here kzbin.info/www/bejne/p3fOpJ6QidaGqLc

[@deet4895]

I agree, Mazda color palette is really boring.

[@aidanomorgadh1]

The RX7 will always have a special place in my heart. I had the FC, no power steering, almost no suspension and I loved to throw it through corners, a wonderful car!!

[@fuelinjecteddreams]

Great video guys! Thoroughly enjoyed every second. You absolutely nailed it when you mentioned the aftermarket really bringing them to life. 👍

[@kdpwt]

Was my dream car at 3 years old. At that point in my life it was everything to me. Everything James said, are the reasons why I fell in love with this car in the first place. Light, insanely good design, spurring you on to mod it. The popups, the double wishbones in a 90s car, the fact it’s like nothing else. This isn’t a car you sit in and drive. You wear it, it’s an extension of you. It melds with the soul. I remember watching Jeremy Clarksons review of this car as a 9 year old and being dissapointed. But when James says that it’s not perfect, that there are many many faults, and that he doesn’t care that it’s banging and clanging when all of it doesn’t matter, it not only sounded like Jeremy, it sounded like the review from Clarkson that I never got And this will get no attention cuz that’s my life rn

[@neo-filthyfrank1347]

wanting attention is cringe

[@chadthunderstroke]

I sold Acura in the late 90's, and the Mazda dealership was directly across the street. I had a '95 NSX at the time but I still drooled over that black RX-7 in sitting outside! I still think it's one of the most beautiful cars Japan has ever produced.

[@kenw6047]

Oh my god I always wished you guys would review an RX7! The most beautiful car ever created

[@mbenton6]

Beautifully narrated... mazda. My first car was a civic and all mazdas thereafter. You become part of the car when you drive it. I'm sold on the slogan "horse and rider"

[@MaribuStork]

I had an 88 RX7 and it was my favorite car ever. It broke every day...but the sound of the rotary sounding like an airplane when you took off is something I will never forget. Incredibly fun car. Never had a gen 3 and never will, but still had a taste of it.

[@JDM_PLUS]

Awesome review. Would love to see more of the 90s JDM legends reviewed today

[@venukrithish007]

What a timeless design. It looks so clean

[@pfava1]

Great shot with the camera following the tach climb. nice editing guys! ~7:54

[@808touge]

Love this meet the legends vids keep them coming. I feel like donut media used to have a great series of catch up on the cars but fell into cheap vs expensive battles. Fill the niche, the void of people obsessed with 90 jdm cars and info 🤙🏽

[@CarlVandenberg]

My first car ever was a used Mazda RX-3, and for a compact car it was a blast to drive. I always wanted an RX-7, but for my 2nd Mazda I had to settle for a 2000 Mazda Protege ES. I saw a video on that new Iconic SP concept car and my first impression was that it looked like a Miata and a RX-7 had a lovechild. If it comes to fruition it might be my chance to own one more Mazda (i'm getting old lol). zoom zoom!

[@itsanofromme6099]

This is the video I’ve been waiting on, my dream car

[@griffsmotorthings]

One of my favorite video's you all have done. Stunning work here! Alright... now we're ready... time for a 300zx video... maybe throw in the 3000gt VR4? WE WANT IT!

[@staypufft80]

This was my dream car growing up as a teenager. Just a beautiful car.

[@polaris6933]

It's always nice to see you in classic cars, keep it up! Also, it would be interesting to hear what you think of the rx-8 compared to this, considering how much cheaper it is.

[@ChrisBrown-pz2gu]

Agree 1000%

[@theCycleReport]

This car made its run in the US starting just before I turned 16 so it and its JDM stablemates were everything. I don't want any of them enough to buy one, but at least this one never tempted me, as I don't fit in it remotely well to consider it. However, arguably tied with the NSX, it is the most beautiful Japanese 90s car ever. P.s. The support group bit is incredible.

[@KingofKingz8224]

RX-7 FD is my favourite car. Even now it looks absolutely amazing. When my grandpa passed I got his 1990 300ZX Z32, took a bit to get it road worthy again, but by god I love driving it.

[@Midchild58]

This one of the best introductions you guys have done. ❤

[@peterscott2662]

No big wing. I like these exactly as here with no spoiler at all, even the stock spoiler options take away from the clean beauty of this car.

[@deet4895]

Nonsense, it needs a Sprit-R spoiler to complete the look.

[@assassinul95]

I'm actually stunned that the rx7 didn't need an engine rebuild at the end of the video

[@anthony1881]

Owned one when I was 20. Almost 50 now and have owned many cars ppl would dream of and my rx7 was and will always be the love of my life

[@thetennisguys4863]

“What bigger enemy is there to logic than the fog of nostalgia and beauty.” So true Thomas!

[@ericmichel3857]

I bought an FD RX7 new back in 93, owned it for almost 10 years. I did a lot of track days with it and did a lot of mods, suspension, single turbo... After a while I even bought another used one for my wife so we could do track days together (we were DINC's at the time). In its day it was a great car, but the reputation on reliability is not for nothing. I loved that car and thought I would keep it forever, and it can be somewhat reliable, for a while anyway. However, over long term hard use... I finally had to sell it after replacing the motor for the sixth time. A new MX5 or GT86 is far superior to an FD RX7, as suggested those cars and the supposed prices they are getting now is only for collectors. No rational person should consider one even as a weekend toy. It is a 30 year old toy that had reliability issues when it was new, how do you think that is going to play out now that they stopped making parts for it twenty years ago? Especially when you can get a much cheaper modern toy with a warranty and significantly better reliability, and it will outperform it. I have far more invested in that car than most, and even I say it should be in a museum (same for the Supra).

[@neo-filthyfrank1347]

Those cars aren't superior at all lmao. They're heavier, make less power, and are uglier (in the miata's case, MUCH uglier).

[@andrewchan1011]

Interesting and very rational take from an ex-FD owner. Its why I can't justify getting back in the FD game until I have stupid money

[@ericmichel3857]

@@neo-filthyfrank1347 The FD is approximately a 2800 lb car, the MX5 is a 2300 lb car, the brand new car is almost 500 lbs lighter, and the BRZ/GT86 also weighs around 2800 lbs. so... As for straight line acceleration they all are so close as to make no difference. In reality a stock FD can barely do 0-60 in the five second range and a mid 14 second 1/4 mile. The Dragtimes guy has a mint condition stock FD and recently did an acceleration test with it, the best he could do was 0-60 in 6.1 seconds, and he does acceleration tests for a living. This is why James said acceleration feels about the same, because it is. The FD was a fast car for the early mid 90's, back then the Miata took almost nine seconds to get to sixty, but by today's standards it is average at best. As for chassis/handling it is good for a thirty year old car, but chassis and suspension technology has improved drastically in thirty years. Just compare track times from today vs thirty years ago, it's not even close. As for looks, I think they all look good in their own way and would not put one above the others. Then their is the reliability issues, availability of parts, all the modern features and safety that the thirty year old car just does not have, if you look at it objectively the two new cars are in fact superior. The FD was great for its day, now it is a great nostalgia collector car, but it is not a good choice for regular use, especially for track duty. Not unless you have multiple cars and a good budget for repairs and upgrades. If you want a sports car that you can actually use on a regular basis, the two newer cars are far superior. The looks could be subjective, but in every other regard it is objective fact.

[@ericmichel3857]

@@andrewchan1011 Indeed, the FD was low-mid $30K car when it was new, which is equivalent to $70K today. The fact that you can get a new sports car today with similar (if not better) performance for less than half the cost, demonstrates how fortunate we are today. And if you want to spend $70K (or even a bit less) look what you could get, a C8, Supra, BMW, even a base Porsche Cayman or Boxter. All of those cars are so far beyond any 90's sports car, any comparison is ridiculous. It is possible to appreciate these old cars and also recognize that their only true value is as a nostalgia collector item. In that regard I would love an old Type E Jaguar, or a Toyota 2000GT, and several early model Alpha Romeo's. Those are cars that IMO have a style you just cannot get today, whereas the FD is not all that far removed from modern cars regarding looks. We can appreciate these cars and still not delude ourselves regarding their worth as a useable sports car.

[@neo-filthyfrank1347]

@@ericmichel3857 Yes I was wrong about the weights but the rest seems extremely questionable. The FD makes way more horsepower than either and seems to have a significantly higher top speed as well. But even more so, there seems to be a high element of defensiveness about your tone, like you're accustomed to having to defend your choices on a moment's notice. Seems like you're trying viciously to rationalize a purchase. An 86 for 30k or so seems like a big waste of money. The 86 looks okay, but the new miata is downright horrid looking.

[@warrenmintz5227]

13k kilometers? Wow! Amazing find and another amazing episode. I used to own an RX-8, not on the same level I know, that actually had a low oil consumption requirement. I also used the Idemitsu rotary premix though. How was the oil consumption on an FD?

[@GuyGamer1]

The RX8 was a great car. It made the same power naturally aspirated as the RX7 made with two turbos. And the chassis was far, far better. It just didn't look as nice and that's pretty much it. People are just sleeping on them, and that's great. After the classic miatas and rx7s skyrocketed in price, the RX8 is still a truly affordable sports car. Just get a later model with the updated engine.

[@neo-filthyfrank1347]

@@GuyGamer1 It made quite a bit less power, and is also heavier

[@mazdaman0075]

@@GuyGamer1 Absolutely, I had an 07 and 09 RX-8 (both GTs) and the 2nd gen is significantly more refined. Just sold the 07 for twice what I paid for it so I think the values are starting to creep up. Love that it's also practical with 2 usable back seats.

[@rekleif]

Your intros are on another level guys. It is such a fun way to start off a video, so thanks for the laugh.. God bless and lots of love from Norway.

[@vinnoxgaming5358]

This is such a beautiful video, the shots, the metaphors, the car, the scenery.

[@emmanuelperrina6105]

30y old and still one of the fastest cars in touges

[@HigeYatsu]

I'm an ND2 owner with similar mods to James' car who used to own and FD. Lately I've been thinking of selling my ND to get back into an FD, but the decision has been agonizing, haha. I would love to hear some more comparison thoughts from James on this one.

[@andrewchan1011]

I'm in the exact same boat as you. I miss my FD but the ND2 is just such a perfect modern car and is fun everywhere that I think I would still choose my ND2 over it.

[@HigeYatsu]

@@andrewchan1011 Yes, I think it's almost undeniable that the ND is the better car, haha. Modern, stiffer chassis, lighter, better reliability, better build quality, and better gas mileage. But the FD has that X factor that you just can't quite place; it just feels a bit more special, and is steeped in classic JDM culture. The ND is better in so many ways, but for whatever reason, it's tough to let the FD go, haha.

[@awaysooner]

In the US you probably need to sell 3 of your ND2 for one of the FD in reasonable mileage and good unmodified condition.

[@elborro444]

Such a great review, so funny! Great job yall

[@whatwoulddarrendo1325]

If all the buyers unanimously decide to not pay these stupid prices some people are asking then the prices would drop.

[@maddymiller1002]

It's called supply and demand

[@tiagobelo4965]

what I love about the RX7 is that it would've still been a great car if it were given a standard piston engine, they are great looking cars with a really good chassis, and that combo is always a win

[@noneyabizz8337]

In some ways, it would have been a better car.

[@IronAxeGaming1]

Trying to think what engine would suit it best. Probably an i4? Seems a bit underwhelming

[@neilgendzwill3260]

@@IronAxeGaming1a straight 6 would have been perfect.

[@RedLine_Renesis]

The rotary is also why it's unique. Also why I own an FC and RX8.

[@embroiledalive5232]

I opened 3 of the first Gen. They definitely feel different while driving (Rev high and fast) from cars with regular engines.

[@kareemrichards8635]

Love the reviews of the older sports cars. 80s and 90s sports cars didn't make a lot of power, but they were lightweight. This Mazda somewhat has the appearance of the TA WS6. Thanks for sharing.

[@TheSwedishCarGuy]

LOVE the intro :D Amazing video! love the RX7 :D

[@coldvaper]

The steering improves drastically with wider wheel/tire combo. I miss mine wish I never sold it. The R1/R2s which I had didn't have that crazy sound system and weighed less they also came with a small wing and a lip with the seat are also much better in my opinion.

[@coldvaper]

@@lamesamelame I needed money and it wouldn’t pass smog here in California anymore. Just didn’t have time or funds to deal with it at the time, now they are too expensive to even get into a decent one.

[@coldvaper]

@@lamesamelame non oping my freshly rebuilt engine would have thrown thousands out the window.

[@coldvaper]

@@lamesamelame I need a computer new turbos, honestly I didn’t have time or money. Anyways it’s too late now it’s in the past and I still have my ae86 which always brings a smile to my face.

[@JavierCR25]

This and the NSX are without a doubt THE most beautiful Japanese cars from the 90s

[@DDHLeigh]

This is the car I learned how to drive manual on! This thing was a blast to drive and it turned heads back then! Memories!

[@CarSeg93]

I want more of this vintage car videos. Got a smile on my face when I saw you guys posted this new vid.

[@friendo787]

Bought a 94 FD a year and half ago on bring a trailer. Had 68,000 miles when I bought it for 45k. It’s been my dream car since I was 14 and I don’t regret it. Montego blue with tan leather.

[@AchievingAchievement]

My brother owned an FC about 20 years ago and I absolutely loved the car. It became my favorite car of all time. Not sure exactly why he had to part with it, but eventually he did. I miss that thing every single day.

[@brucetopping248]

mazda still my favorite make. love lots of others, but Mazda does it right. ..and these guys are fun to watch.

[@twistedsxs2426]

Another amazing intro, outtro. and review. James voice, I tip my hat to you good sir.

[@KirkThomson]

This was the only generation RX-7 I didn't own. At the time I opted for a Stealth R/T Twin Turbo. What a fantastic car that was, and I hope some day you will showcase one.

[@f1jones544]

I'll never forget following one of these RX-7s on the limit through an LA coverleaf when my 5th Gen Ptelude. He was working but didn't make any distance on me. Maybe he just wasn't very good but he couldn't pull away.

[@mike63ful]

I remember seeing these Rx-7s at the Mazda Dealership in the 90s! I was in my 20s wishing I could afford one.Thanks!

[@afoolandhismoneychannel]

That opening segment was pure gold... and 100% relatable.

[@anthonymcfadden5086]

I love the hidden, “Is that a Supra?!?!” reference