The RX-7 has always been a novel car, but when it comes to sheer speed, the 1st and 2nd generation RX-7's simply couldn't keep up with much of its equally priced competition. When Mazda unveiled it's 3rd generation RX-7 in 1993 I wasn't exactly confident that this new offering from Mazda could compete with the likes of the 300ZX TT, the Camaro SS, etc. While the RX-7 does not boast the quickest 0-60 times on the planet, for the 1993 model year the RX-7 is finally a serious sports car that has no problem keeping up with cars like the Mustang Cobra or 300ZX TT.
Driving Impressions:
The RX-7 comes standard with a 1.3 liter twin rotor Wankel engine with twin turbos bolted on to give an impressive 255 horsepower and 217 lb-ft of torque. Off-the-line acceleration in the '93 RX-7 TT is simply amazing! Even with only 1.3 liters and peak power reached at a relatively high 6,500 engine revs, the engine coupled with a smooth shifting 5-speed manual transmission (a 4 speed automatic is optional) gives enough power at take-off to push the driver and passengers back in their plush leather seats. Unlike the single turbo RX-7s of the past, there is virtually no turbo lag with the 1993 model. The engine runs very quickly to redline with the sound only a twin turbo rotary engine can make. The RX-7 also does very well on hills at freeway speeds, no need to downshift to 4th gear on most inclines, just a push on the throttle sends this machine up the steepest of hills without fuss.
Handling in the RX-7 can be a little scary at first, but once the driver adjusts, she is welcomed with one of the best handling sports cars ever made. The steering is sharp and the RX-7 responds instantly to anything the driver throws at it.
Cruising is not really the RX-7's strong point. On a few trips in this car on Interstate 5 in California, I really got to feel what this car was like on the freeway. The RX-7 TT is affected by wind, engine, and road noise; especially when speeds creep up over 75 mph. The ride is extremely rock hard, and sometimes punishing. The '93 RX-7 comes in two packages, the Touring and R1.
NOTE: My test RX-7 was an R1 trim, the 'Touring' package comes with a softer suspension, so if you are looking for a softer ride the Touring package might be your best choice. The Rx-7's high performance is matched by excellent Braking. Mazda has fitted the RX-7 with 4 wheel-vented disc brakes and 4 wheel ABS.
NOTE: Expect to get around 23 MPG on the freeway.
Interior Accommodation:
The interior of the RX-7, in terms of room, is simply tiny. The RX-7 is a two-seater with very little room up front and the same can be said about the storage space in the rear. Stark , black plastic is the main theme in the RX-7, but the RX-7 is more about performance and driver enjoyment than luxury. The RX-7 does come with plenty amenities, i.e. a tachometer, power sunroof, AC, power door locks and windows, Am/FM cassette player, and a front air bag. The front seats were made of quality leather and with 90K miles on this car the leather was still in beautiful condition. The seats are somewhat supportive, but due to the tiny space, the driver gets uncomfortable very fast, especially if you are over 5'6". I would comment on the sound system, but the stock system in this car was replaced.
Exterior Innovation:
Mazda did an excellent job designing the 1993 RX-7. The RX-7 is modern in appearance, very sexy, and intelligently designed. The RX-7 definitely has a Japanese design theme, however some American influence comes in the form of the simple but curvaceous lines. This design has often been compared to the current generation Chevrolet Corvette.
Price & reliability
The '93 RX-7 TT originally would set you back around $34,000 back in '93. Today a used model can be had for around $15,000; if you are lucky enough to find one for sale. Reliability has been good for the owner of this car, which was bought originally in '93, very few repairs have been needed thanks to meticulous maintenance.
Conclusion:
A sure classic, which represents excellent performance in all respects and exclusivity rights many cars could only dream of. The RX-7 is recommended for any sports car enthusiast who is looking for a unique racer.
Other Cars to Consider:
1. Ford Mustang
2. Toyota Supra
3. Acura TypeR
4. Nissan 300ZX http://www.epinions.com/content_48472231556 (My Review)
5. Chevrolet Camaro
-Happy car shopping.
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