It’s no secret that we are performance fans here at Double Apex. We also have a soft spot for Mazda performance models such as the MX-5.

This week we get to celebrate another iconic model from the Japanese firm as the Mazda RX-7 turns 40.

Click here to read about our memorable drive around Mazda’s proving ground with a senior member of the engineering staff.

Three generations

The RX-7 badge graced the tail of three different generations known as FB, FC and FD, respectively. Production of the first model started in 1978 and last of the FD models rolled off the Hiroshima production line in 2002.

During this period, over 810 000 unit were sold across the world, over 470 000 of the total were FB series cars as the eye-catching looks and lightweight dynamics spoke to a generation that had to deal with an oil crisis in the late 1970s and early ’80s.

Unique powerplant

Of course, it is well known that RX-7 models were powered by rotary engines. The low mass and high specific power output of these engines made them ideal for the world of motorsport.

Rotary engine

Rotary engine

Rotary engine exploded view

Rotary engine exploded view

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The RX-7 took overall victory in the 1981 Spa 24 hours, competed at Le Mans, participated in Group B rallying as well as claiming the 1980 and 1981 British Touring Car Championship titles. In the USA, the RX-7 took an unbeaten 100 wins in 12 years of IMSA competition and won the GTU class at the 1979 Daytona 24 hours.

Admired globally

The RX-7 may no longer be in production, but it still enjoys a cult following the world over. Whether by owners of cars or the countless gaming fans who raced and drove the RX-7 in racing sims, its name will live a long way beyond the last model rolling off the production line.

Take a walk down RX-7 memory lane in this video: