The Mazda RX-7, in its various guises, remains the most successful production car ever powered by the revolutionary Wankel rotary engine. It was not only a marketing winner but proved a giant killer in global motorsport. This 1983 RX-7 is a GSL, bringing some welcome mechanical and interior upgrades to enhance the ownership and driving experience. It has a few minor needs, but most could be addressed by a competent person in a home workshop. The seller has listed the RX-7 here on Facebook in Middletown, Ohio. It could be ideal for someone seeking an affordable Japanese classic courtesy of the asking price of $8,500. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder JMB#7 for spotting this gem.

Mazda introduced the RX-7 to the waiting world in 1978, with a Series 2 version emerging in 1983. This is one of those cars, and it presents impressively for an unrestored survivor. Its original owner ordered it in Sunrise Red, a shade that remained on the RX-7 color palette from 1981 until 1985. The paint shines beautifully and is contrasted by the “Targa Band” extending up the B-Pillars and across the roof. The seller is candid about the car’s condition, admitting there are some chips and marks that don’t show in the supplied shots. There are also two tiny rust bubbles, but the underside of this car is clean. It appears the bubbles are the only issues, leaving this Mazda structurally sound. The body is as straight as an arrow, while the trim and glass look excellent. The RX-7 rolls on its original alloy wheels, free from curb strike and other physical damage.

The Wankel rotary engine promised so much and should have changed the world of internal combustion engines. Its engineering made perfect sense, but the reality was that it could be a troublesome beast if underdeveloped. NSU chose the powerplant for its stunning Ro 80, but it was the rotary that spoiled that car’s reputation and helped push the company into bankruptcy. Mazda initially suffered the same issues as NSU but persevered to iron out the bugs with considerable success. This RX-7 is powered by the 12A version, with a nominal capacity of 1,146cc. It produces 100hp and 105 ft/lbs of torque, but the fact it has to be revved relatively hard to achieve those figures means it sometimes doesn’t appeal to people used to cars with effortless low-end performance. The power finds its way to the rear wheels via a five-speed manual transmission, with stopping power provided by four-wheel disc brakes that are an integral part of the GSL package. The natural home of the RX-7 is not the drag strip. However, point these little gems at a twisting ribbon of bitumen, and they provide an engaging and enjoyable motoring experience. The seller confirms this Mazda is in sound mechanical health. They indicate the engine stalls if left to idle for more than thirty seconds, but they have persisted with the problem for an extended period. The oil pan gasket seeps slightly, but they appear to be the only mechanical maladies. The seller doesn’t mention whether they hold evidence verifying the originality of the 76,000 miles on the clock. However, they are confident enough to perform a compression test on the engine for potential buyers. If this RX-7 has been appropriately maintained, it should offer its new owner years of reliable and enjoyable motoring.

The seller describes the Mazda’s interior condition as 9/10, with little to fault in the supplied photos. The Red leather upholstered surfaces are free from significant wear, with their condition consistent with the mileage claim. The plastic hasn’t started crumbling, and the dash, pad, and carpet are almost perfect. However, the seller admits the carpet below the hatch is badly faded and crumbling. A replacement piece for that area retails for around $115, but a complete carpet set would cost the buyer $270. I would probably choose the second option to maintain color consistency across the interior. Life aboard this Mazda should be pleasant, with the new owner receiving air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, cruise control, and a premium AM/FM radio/cassette player.

This 1983 Mazda RX-7 GSL has only been on the market for a few days, and interested parties may need to act quickly if they want to park it in their garage. Values are climbing rapidly, and it is common to see good examples selling for over $14,500. This car doesn’t quite hit that mark, but it would take little to achieve it. I don’t think the seller will have much trouble moving this classic, but the big question is whether the new owner will be one of our readers. I would love to know if this car is all it appears to be if that becomes the case. Do we have any takers?