FC3S:USDM Series 4 Model Year History

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The year, was 1985 and Mazda engineers were presented with a very serious problem....how could they make an award winning design even better, completely redesign the RX-7, and yet at the same time....make it the same. This was no easy task, yet Mazda engineers set to work, and by 1986 were prepared to release the "2nd Generation" of the RX-7. Now built using a 6 port normally aspirated or Turbocharged 13B rotary engine. The beautifully smooth body of the 2nd gens made a fast engine design even faster by reducing drag and wind resistance. The second generation RX-7 also had near perfect 50/50 weight distribution. Winner of Motor Trend's Car of the year award and many other awards, made the second generation an amazing success.

1986 Model Year Summary

Mazda, always looking for the best mix of new, exotic and basic technology took all these things into account when designing the second generation RX-7s. The first major decision to make was which engine to use? Mazda opted to use the 13B engine, which had proven itself in the 84-85 GSL-SE model. However, Mazda beefed up the 13B with several changes. These changes comprised of a redesigned intake manifold which improved ram-effect, an updated fuel injection system which also consisted of a secondary injection system, (Which later caused the notorious 3800rpm hesitation) and larger intake ducts. All these subtle changes added up to an 11hp increase to 146hp. Deep on the inside of the RX-7's body, changes were also made as designers and engineers decided they should create the RX-7 with a unit body, instead of the separate cockpit and body design which was the initial idea, this would allow for more stability and also made it easier to obtain the goal....a 50/50 weight distribution between the front and rear wheels. Because of the way the RX-7 was designed, many major people in the automotive industry criticized Mazda and the RX-7 because of it's resemblance to the Porsche 944. However, these accusations quickly died out, as people realized the RX-7 had much smoother and more elegant lines than the Porsche.Also used in the exterior design was a very large rear-hatch glass. That glass might seem unimportant, however it was the largest ever produced in Japanese auto making history. The design of the new RX-7 wasn't just for looks, the RX-7 had a slippery 0.31Cd and could be lowered to 0.29Cd with an optional aero kit. That kit was compromised of an add-on black plastic front spoiler, side skirts, and a rear spoiler which blended in very well, and appears like an extension of the body. Mazda also implemented some of the most amazing new technology in the world when it created a new suspension and steering system. They added redesigned rear independent suspension which provided the driver with a passive rear steering system similar to later 4-wheel steering vehicles. The setup contained a split trailing arm and a flexible hub which allowed the rear wheels to toe-out during the initial turn-in for additional stability and to moderate oversteer. Mazda named this device the "Dynamic Tracking Suspension System (DTSS)". Braking was also redesigned for the new RX-7's depending on their model. The base models were equipped with disc brakes all around, and the front two were ventilated, 14x5.5 aluminum wheels which resembled large phone-dials. Mounted on those wheels were 185/70HR14 tires. The Sports and GXL models were equipped with larger ventilated disc brakes all around plus racing type four-piston calipers up front, sport suspension, and 15x6 aluminum wheels which became known as bologna slicers. Mounted on those wheels were 205/60VR15 Potenza RE71's. As an added bonus the GXL models were equipped with a 2-way driver adjustable suspension which adjusted the firmness of the suspension for better cornering feel. For the first time in the US, the RX-7 was made available with a pair of rear seats which were available on every model. Unfortunately, they weren't good for anything other than luggage, or maybe some small children, simply because the only way an adult would sit back there comfortable would be sideways. For the debut of the 2nd Generation there were 4 models advertised : Base, Luxury Coupe, Sports Package, GXL. The base models started at a low $11,995. Luxury Coupe added a 100W stereo and power mirrors which pushed its price into the mid $12,000s. Sports Packages added the a fore mentioned aero kit, bigger brakes, and a firmer suspension and ran around $14,000. GXL was the Caddy of the 2nd gens and headed up the Mazda line at its top price of $17,145. In no time at all the Mazda RX-7 had once again taken the world...not to mention the American public by storm by becoming the world's best selling sports car of the year by selling 72,760 units.

General Specifications

  • Suggested Retail Price (Base/Sport Model): $11,995 est.
  • Suggested Retail Price (GXL Model): $16,645
  • Suggested Retail Price (Base 2+2 Model): $12,495
  • Suggested Retail Price (GXL 2+2 Model): $17,145
  • EPA Gas Mileage: 17 City / 24 Highway (5 Speed & Automatic)
  • Curb Weight: 2,625 lbs (5 Speed with or without 2+2)
  • Curb Weight: 2,695 lbs (Automatic with or without 2+2)
  • Wheelbase: 95.7 inches
  • Track f/r: 57.1 inches / 56.7 inches
  • Length: 168.9 inches
  • Width: 66.5 inches
  • Height: 49.8 inches
  • Ground Clearance: 5.9 inches
  • Fuel Capacity: 16.6 US Gallons

Engine Specifications (All Models)

  • Engine Type: Twin Rotor 13B
  • Displacement: 1308cc/80ci
  • Compression Ratio: 9.4:1
  • Output(hp): 146bhp (at) 6500 rpm
  • Torque: 138lb-ft (at) 3500 rpm
  • Fuel Supply: Electronic Fuel Injection
Drivetrain Specifications
Transmission: 	 5-Speed 	 4-Speed(Auto)
Ratio: 1st 	 3.475	 	 2.841
Ratio: 2nd 	 2.002 		 1.541
Ratio: 3rd 	 1.366 	 	 1.000
Ratio: 4th 	 1.000 	 	 0.720
Ratio: 5th 	 0.711 	 
Ratio: Reverse	 3.493	 	 2.400
Final Drive	 4.100	 	 3.909

Steering Specifications (Manual Steering)

  • Type: rack and pinion
  • Overall Ratio: 20.3:1
  • Turns (lock to lock): 3.5
  • Turning Circle: 32.2 feet

Steering Specifications (Power Steering)

  • Type: rack and pinion
  • Overall Ratio: 15.2:1
  • Turns (lock to lock): 2.7
  • Turning Circle: 32.2 feet

Suspension Specifications

  • Front, type: Independent Macpherson strut type, with lower A-arm, anti-roll bar, and coil springs.
  • Rear, type: Independent, DTSS with trailing arms, Triaxial floating hubs, camber control links, coil springs, and anti-roll bar.
  • Front Anti Roll Bar: 22mm or 24mm with "Sport Package"
  • Rear Anti Roll Bar: 12mm or 14mm with "Sport Package"

Weight Specifications

  • 4-speed Automatic Transmission : 2,695 lbs.(est)
  • 5-speed Manual Transmission : 2,625 lbs.(est)

1987 Model Year Summary

In March 1987, the amazingly more powerful Turbo II was unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show. The Turbo II can be distinguished from all the other models by its fully functional hood scoop which was designed to allow outside air to enter the intercooler which was mounted on top of the engine. Mazda also for the first time introduced 16x7 inch aluminum wheels which were mostly flat but had several fins on the outside of the wheel. Also installed were more aerodynamic side/rear view mirrors, these had a hole between the mirror and body which reduced wind resistance. Turbo II decals were also placed behind the front wheels. Because of all the added power and torque, Mazda had to redesign their 5-speed transmission. The Turbo II name was a minor problem for Mazda because many people thought it meant the car was a twin turbo(because of the II) however, in reality it was named "Turbo II" because it was the second turbo-powered rotary. The first turbo was only sold in Japan as a turbo 12A around 1983. Anti-Lock Brakes(ABS) were made available as an option on Turbo II's and GXL's for about $1,300. Even though a 1987 model, it impressed the press so much that the RX-7 Turbo II became the 1986 Motor Trend Import Car of the Year. The SE came into to the lineup as the base model and was equipped with the 14" phone-dial wheels, the new security system, and some other options were made standard equipment that in the 86 base model were extra.

General Specifications

  • Suggested Retail Price (Base/Sport Model): $11,995 est.
  • Suggested Retail Price (GXL Model): $16,645
  • Suggested Retail Price (Base 2+2 Model): $12,495
  • Suggested Retail Price (GXL 2+2 Model): $17,145
  • Suggested Retail Price (TurboII): $19,345
  • EPA Gas Mileage: 17 City / 24 Highway (5 Speed & Automatic)
  • EPA Gas Mileage: 17 City / 23 Highway (5 Speed Only TurboII)
  • Curb Weight: 2,625 lbs (5 Speed with or without 2+2)
  • Curb Weight: 2,695 lbs (Automatic with or without 2+2)
  • Curb Weight: 2,845 lbs (TurboII)
  • Wheelbase: 95.7 inches
  • Track f/r: 57.1 inches / 56.7 inches
  • Length: 168.9 inches
  • Width: 66.5 inches
  • Height: 49.8 inches
  • Ground Clearance: 5.9 inches
  • Fuel Capacity: 16.6 US Gallons

Engine Specifications (Normally Aspirated)

  • Engine Type: Twin Rotor 13B
  • Displacement: 1308cc/80ci
  • Compression Ratio: 9.4:1
  • Output(hp): 146bhp (at) 6500 rpm
  • Torque: 138lb-ft (at) 3500 rpm
  • Fuel Supply: Electronic Fuel Injection

Engine Specifications (TurboII Model)

  • Engine Type: Twin Rotor 13B Turbocharged
  • Displacement: 1308cc/80ci
  • Compression Ratio: 8.5:1
  • Output(hp): 182bhp (at) 6500 rpm
  • Torque: 183lb-ft (at) 3500 rpm
  • Fuel Supply: Electronic Fuel Injection


Drivetrain Specifications

Transmission: 	 5-Speed 	 4-Speed(Auto) 	 5-Speed TurboII
Ratio: 1st 	 3.475	 	 2.841	 	 3.483
Ratio: 2nd	 2.002	 	 1.541 		 2.015
Ratio: 3rd 	 1.366 		 1.000	 	 1.391
Ratio: 4th 	 1.000 	 	 0.720 		 1.000
Ratio: 5th 	 0.711 	  	 0.762
Ratio: Reverse	 3.493	 	 2.400		 3.288
Final Drive	 4.100 	 	 3.909 		 4.100

Steering Specifications (Manual Steering)

  • Type: rack and pinion
  • Overall Ratio: 20.3:1
  • Turns (lock to lock): 3.5
  • Turning Circle: 32.2 feet

Steering Specifications (Power Steering)

  • Type: rack and pinion
  • Overall Ratio: 15.2:1
  • Turns (lock to lock): 2.7
  • Turning Circle: 32.2 feet

Suspension Specifications

  • Front, type: Independent Macpherson strut type, with lower A-arm, anti-roll bar, and coil springs.
  • Rear, type: Independent, DTSS with trailing arms, Triaxial floating hubs, camber control links, coil springs, and anti-roll bar.
  • Front Anti Roll Bar: 22mm or 24mm with "Sport Package" or TurboII
  • Rear Anti Roll Bar: 12mm or 14mm with "Sport Package" or TurboII

Weight Specifications

  • 4-speed Automatic Transmission : 2,695 lbs.(est)
  • 5-speed Manual Transmission : 2,625 lbs.(est)

1988 Model Year Summary

In 1988 Mazda responded to public demand for a powerful, convertible RX-7. The new convertible was introduced with 378 extra pounds of reinforcements which were added in order to improve chassis stability because of the lack of a roof. Convertible models were fully loaded with all options, even with BBS wheels, and with a non-turbo 13B. Aside from its success on the public streets, the RX-7 was dominant in the GTU class of IMSA. To commemorate this amazing victory, Mazda entered into the RX-7 line-up the GTU model which was made the new Sports Package. This model contained bigger brakes, variable-assist power steering, stiffer suspension, sportier seats, sportier side view mirrors, and a redesigned rear spoiler. The spoiler was a wrap around type with 2 pedestals in the middle....this replaced the earlier aero kit. The spoiler was made standard on the Turbo II. Also in 1988 Mazda celebrated 10 years of the RX-7 by creating the very limited edition 10th Anniversary RX-7. This model (limited to 1500 cars) could only be purchased in a monochromatic white paint scheme. This scheme made the Turbo II wheels white, the tail lamp black plastic white, and even the black body trim was painted white. To help distinguish it as the 10th Anniversary... rotor-shaped 10th Anniversary RX-7 emblems (like the one at right) were placed behind the front wheels, and the 10th Anniversary Edition only came with black leather. Loaded down with every possible option, even more than the convertible, it also included a special sound system which boasted a 120watt stereo system and tilted rear speakers, which created more "ambiance" inside the vehicle.

General Specifications

  • Suggested Retail Price (SE): $15,480(Early 1988) and $16,150(Late 1988)
  • Suggested Retail Price (GTU): $17,350(Early) and $18,150(Late)
  • Suggested Retail Price (GXL): $19,160(Early) and $20,050(Late)
  • Suggested Retail Price (SE 2+2): $15,980(Early) and $16,650(Late)
  • Suggested Retail Price (GXL 2+2): $19,660(Early) and $20,550(Late)
  • Suggested Retail Price (Convertible): $19,660(Early) and $20,550(Late)
  • Suggested Retail Price (TurboII): $21,800(Early) and $22,750(Late)
  • Suggested Retail Price (Anniversary Edition): $24,650
  • EPA Gas Mileage: 17 City / 24 Highway (5 Speed & Automatic)
  • EPA Gas Mileage: 17 City / 23 Highway (5 Speed Only TurboII)

Curb Weight:

  • 2,625 lbs (5 Speed)
  • 2,695 lbs (Automatic)
  • 2,645 lbs (5 Speed with 2+2)
  • 2,715 lbs (Automatic with 2+2)
  • 2,845 lbs (TurboII)
  • 3,003 lbs (Convertible)
  • Wheelbase: 95.7 inches
  • Track f/r: 57.1 inches / 56.7 inches
  • Length: 168.9 inches
  • Width: 66.5 inches
  • Height: 49.8 inches
  • Ground Clearance: 5.9 inches
  • Fuel Capacity: 16.6 US Gallons

Engine Specifications (Normally Aspirated)

  • Engine Type: Twin Rotor 13B
  • Displacement: 1308cc/80ci
  • Compression Ratio: 9.4:1
  • Output(hp): 146bhp (at) 6500 rpm
  • Torque: 138lb-ft (at) 3500 rpm
  • Fuel Supply: Electronic Fuel Injection

Engine Specifications (TurboII Model)

  • Engine Type: Twin Rotor 13B Turbocharged
  • Displacement: 1308cc/80ci
  • Compression Ratio: 8.5:1
  • Output(hp): 182bhp (at) 6500 rpm
  • Torque: 183lb-ft (at) 3500 rpm
  • Fuel Supply: Electronic Fuel Injection
Drivetrain Specifications
Transmission: 	 5-Speed 	 4-Speed(Auto) 	 5-Speed TurboII
Ratio: 1st 	 3.475	 	 2.841	 	 3.483
Ratio: 2nd	 2.002 		 1.541 		 2.015
Ratio: 3rd 	 1.366 	 	 1.000 		 1.391
Ratio: 4th 	 1.000 		 0.720 		 1.000
Ratio: 5th 	 0.711				 0.762
Ratio: Reverse	 3.493 	 	 2.400	 	 3.288
Final Drive 	 4.100 	 	 3.909 	 	 4.100

Steering Specifications (Power Steering)

  • Type: rack and pinion
  • Overall Ratio: 15.2:1
  • Turns (lock to lock): 2.7
  • Turning Circle: 32.2 feet

Suspension Specifications

  • Front, type: Independent Macpherson strut type, with lower A-arm, anti-roll bar, and coil springs.
  • Rear, type: Independent, DTSS with trailing arms, Triaxial floating hubs, camber control links, coil springs, and anti-roll bar.
  • Front Anti Roll Bar: 22mm (SE) or 24mm (GTU,GXL,Convertible,TurboII)
  • Rear Anti Roll Bar: 12mm (SE, Convertible)or 14mm (GTU,GXL,TurboII)

Weight Specifications

  • 4-speed Automatic Transmission : 2,695 lbs.(est)
  • 5-speed Manual Transmission : 2,625 lbs.(est)

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