1982 Mazda RX-7

The front-engine, rear-wheel-drive rotary engine-powered Mazda RX-7 sports car was built from 1978 through 2002 and in three generations. They were known for their small footprint, minimal weight, and compact rotary engine installed behind the front axle, which helped balance the front and rear weight distribution, delivering a low center of gravity and impressive performance. Sales were strong in its home market, where it complied with Japanese Government dimension regulations, and Japanese buyers were not liable for yearly taxes for driving a larger car. The engine's displacement was below 1.5-liters which significantly reduced the amount buyers had to spend on the Japanese annual road tax.

The first generation of the RX-7 was a two-passenger hatchback and a 2+2 hatchback with an 'occasional' rear seats. It was produced from 1978 through 1985, with a total of 471,018 examples built. In May of 1980, a limited production run of special North American models, known as the Leathersport Models, were introduced. This package, basically an uprated GS model with added LS badges on each B-pillar, had LS-only gold anodized wheels, and special stripes on the exterior. The LS trim level came with special LS-only full brown leather upholstery, leather-wrapped shift knob, leather-wrapped steering wheel, LS-specific four-speaker AM/FM stereo radio with power antenna, removable sunroof, and remote power door side mirrors. Options included a three-speed JATCO 3N71B automatic transmission and air conditioning. LS colors included Brilliant Black, Solar Gold, and Aurora White.

In 1981, integrated plastic-covered bumpers were added, along with wide black rubber body side moldings, updated engine control components, and wraparound taillights. These changes brought about the Series 2, which remained in production until 1983. They were 135 pounds lighter and no longer had the four-speed manual option. The gas tank size grew, the dashboard was redesigned, and the shorter gear stick was now located closer to the driver.

Few changes occurred in 1982. Trim levels included the S, GS, and GSL. The base price for the 2-door coupe began at $9,700. The Wankel engine had two coaxial three-lobe rotors, a displacement size of 70 cubic inches, and delivered 100 horsepower and 105 lbs-ft of torque. Disc brakes were located at all four corners.

by Daniel Vaughan | Jun 2019