RX7 FC ownership

[ArisK]

Hey guys,

I am really thinking of stepping, in the unknown zone for me, of the RX7 ownership. I am really close in buying a quite clean 1991 FC RX7 Turbo and I would like to hear about any experiences (good or bad)regarding owning this car. I would also like to hear any recommendations regarding maintenance and proper running of the car due to the rotary engine as well as what to look for when inspecting it before buying. I own several cars, a 1971 B GT and a 1978 Celica ST and I have a good experience with owning and working on old cars but the whole rotary thing kinda scares/intrigues me. Any advises on this as well?

[lilwashu]

Rust will be your biggest problem on one of those I would imagine. You would want to get a compression test done on the engine too at a rotary specialist.

[ArisK]

Rust isn't a really bug issue here in Greece, since most winters are not cold enough to ice roads which leads to rust. Also generally due to south climate cars tend to rust a lot less than in the UK. As far as the compression test the seller claims that the car has been rated and a compression of 9 on both rotors has been achieved. He also says he is willing to prove it anytime by retaking the test. The car is running with a replacement engine as the original went belly up at 70000 km's. My main other worry about it is the turbo, but he says he has receipts of the unit having being rebuilt in less that 1000 km ago.

[danllama]

Sounds good to go then. If the price is right just buy it. I wouldn't hesitate.

[Wiltz]

After owning a FC for over 18 months i can tell you quite a bit.

Rust.

No matter how much the seller tells you it is rust free. It may LOOK rust free. It will be soggy somewhere.

Parts are starting to become very rare. Breakers are still around but the parts are getting scarce.

You will be wanting something with a compression test. nothing worse than getting one and having a duff engine. Say goodbye to £2500 if it is such

Vacuum pipes, Solenoids, Injector seals, Exhaust gaskets. All something to look into.

If you want anymore advice just ask.

[ArisK]

The seller proclaims that the car is rust free. He did do a full body renovation and repainted it from the original white to black (since the Greek sun can be quite harsh on car color - fading is a very natural thing over here). Other than that the car has had a replacement engine fitted as the original one died at 70000km (the replacement has 56000 km) which he claims it scores a compression of 9:1 on both rotors (and is willing to do a compression test to prove it). He also had every hose changed to new ones as the old ones were starting to get a bit worn. He also had every belt changed. Other than than the car is running with a newly fitted clutch and gearbox mountings and the turbo has been rebuilt (he has receipts that prove this). He also had another car for spare parts so he is willing to throw in the original defective engine (which he claims that it can be fixed for about 500 euros), a replacement gearbox, a differential along with a prop shaft, some suspension bits and, body parts (front wings, tail light etc) and a windshield.

I have had experience running old cars (I am currently running a 71 MG B GT and a 78 Celica) but my main worry in transitioning from a "normal" car to an RX-7 is the engine longevity. I have heard stories about this things blowing up for no apparent reason other than bad maintenance and use. The reason I am tempting to go for this car is the price (which is quite good) and the fact that I was always a fan of the sleek looking RX-7 along with the quirkiness of it's engine. Also in case I go for it, I plan to daily drive it as much as I can, so I would like to hear about any experiences concerning this.