1980 Mazda RX-7

The first generation RX-7 was revolutionary car that has since become an icon. Although the Germans all but abandoned their Wankel rotary engine the 70s, they licensed the technology to companies around the world. Mazda was one of them, and they put it to good use, solving the chatter marks issue and gaining enough confidence to put their first commercially produced rotary engine in the 1967 Cosmo.

It wasn't until nearly a decade later, however, that their rotary engine would gain mass appreciation with its placement in the first generation RX-7, which would go on to sell almost half a million units.

There were so many factors contributing to success of the RX-7. It was the right car at the right time in the right place. The 1,145 cc 12A rotary engine produced a decent-for-the-time 100 horsepower to the rear wheels. Coupled with a stick shift, it was smooth, sporty, fast revving and relatively fuel efficient. This was when the two-door compact sports car segment was heating up, and the Japanese were more than happy to claim a stake in the ripe North American market hungry for small, economical but well-built and fun cars.

It also helped the RX-7 was wrapped in a styling home run. What's that saying? Often imitated, never duplicated? That's practically the design story of the RX-7, which basically set the aesthetic template for entry-level sports cars and influenced countless imitations for a good decade and a half after its debut. And understandably. It's so well done. The hood is long and sleek without looking ridiculous. The hidden headlights - a technological shortcoming - magically enhance the overall design, and the rear sloping greenhouse-canopied hatchback is brilliant, before it all tapers to the simple, minimal rear end, the whole thing not quite a wedge but more of a cool cigar shape, all the while remaining remarkably compact but still comfortable inside.

This example looks just fine in red and has a claimed 99k miles on the clock. The seller says it remains original and 100% stock after bringing it eastward from the Golden State. Mazda produced many of them, but a good deal have already been driven into the ground or rusted away and sold for scrap. However, well-kept survivors have been commanding steady amounts for a couple years now and show no signs of slowing down. Subsequent generations lost the charm and although the RX-8 was well intentioned there is now nothing remotely like it in Mazda's current lineup.

Available here on craigslist for $3,500.

73K-Mile 1994 Mazda RX-7

Mazda's RX-7 made quite an impression when the charming first generation debuted in 1978. By then, the Germans had long abandoned any notions of mainstream, mass-produced rotary engines. But Japan hadn't given up on the quirky engine setup, which was noted for its smoothness and high output, although not necessarily reliability and efficiency.

Successive generations of the RX-7 have come and gone, but the 90s version remains the most enigmatic. Firstly, it's rare. Mazda only offered it here from 1993-1995 and never sold many, hence pulling it off the market so quickly. Second, it was the only rotary engined car available. The rotary engine is a piece of complex machinery, and is not measured by cylinders. This generation RX-7 came with a sequential twin-turbocharger unit that was good for north of 250 horsepower, impressive for the time. But despite being a quality, capable rear-wheel drive sports car, it was often out-shined by stiff competition like the 300ZX, Supra, Corvette and NSX. Lastly, the styling, while admired for its simplicity, is almost a little too soft and anonymous to stand out in a field of alpha-personalities.

Only three models were offered in North America: base, touring and R. This is a 1994 model that is being offered by a private seller. They don't specify what trim it is, but it seems well equipped with a sunroof, leather seating and a rear spoiler, all of which are rather must-haves on this type of car.

They say it has just 73k miles on the clock. It's no garage queen though, and has dings and dents on the body along with a worn driver's seat.

Mechanically, the seller says it runs and drive nice. Reliability will depend on their upkeep, so check for proof. I'd also check for accidents. These were fast cars and inexperienced owners often pushed them to the limits, with repercussions. Scarce parts and service might be expensive, as well.

The seller is asking $12,000, which is a large chunk of change for an old car not in perfect condition. But, the mileage is low enough and the car itself rare that it is still desirable. Knowledge is power and will help in negotiating.

Available here on craigslist.

Just Plain Cool: 1988 Mazda RX-7 Turbo II 10th Anniversary

The second generation or "FC" Mazda RX-7 continued the oddball rotary engine setup of the iconic first generation but with major revisions. It was produced from 1986-1988.

The body was all-new. Mazda made no secret it was inspired by the rival Prosche 944. Like a lot of other Japanese car designs of the '80s, the RX-7 is not at all original, but instead a sleek, strangely muted interpretation of German aesthetics. In some ways, it's astonishingly successful in that it really is better looking than the 944. For that, they definitely deserve some credit.

The rotary engine was situated in the front, but closest to the cockpit as possible for better weight distribution. Power was directed to the rear wheels. Naturally-aspirated engines produced anywhere between 146-160 horsepower. Turbocharged engines produced between 182-202 horsepower, pretty decent for the time.

The FC RX-7 was only 80 lbs. heavier than the previous generation.

It was met with critical and popular success. Over 270,000 were produced, with 86,000 sold in the first year alone. These are not rare cars by any stretch.

This version of the RX-7 is hard to find, however. It's a special 10th Anniversary Edition. These were made in 1988 to commemorate a decade since the launch of the original RX-7 in 1978. According to wikipedia they feature "Crystal White monochromatic paint scheme with matching white body side mouldings, taillight housings, mirrors and 16-inch alloy 7-spoke wheels. Another distinctive exterior feature is the gold rotor-shaped 10th Anniversary Edition badge on the fenders. The interior is all black with leather seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel (with 10th AE centerpiece) and genuine MOMO shifter and boot. Glass windows are bronze tinted."

In addition, the seller is offering up a pristine example with only 23,030 miles on the clock. The car looks stunning. The seller says it was only used as a weekend driver and has never been altered or modified in any way. They say the interior still smells new.

Only 1,500 10th Anniversary cars were made.

This is not going to go for cheap.

Find it here on ebay in Los Angeles, California with bidding at $11,100 and 5 days left.