1979 Mazda RX-7 – Today’s Sports Coupe Tempter

By: James Robinson, Unique Cars magazine

Date: 02.08.2017

A cause for speculation?

The Series 1 Mazda RX-7 was first unveiled by the Japanese manufacturer in March of 1978 in Hiroshima.

Replacing the outgoing RX-3, the Series 1 stayed in production until the end of 1980, at which time it was replaced by the Series 2.

Power came from a 1.1lt, two-rotor, naturally aspirated Wankel engine that produced a healthy 109kW.

The shove from the rotary donk was sent to the rear wheels via either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission.

The Series 1 RX-7 was highly praised when it reached Australian shores, and was a hit with both the automotive press and customers alike.

It was credited with having an excellent balance of power-to-weight and a very competent chassis that was ideal for enthusiast driving.

Many also consider the Series 1 RX-7 to be the car that saved Mazda, due to the marque previously suffering from poor sales in the American market.

More recently, the Series 1 RX-7 has begun to rise steadily in value over the last five years, perhaps the most notable example of this being a very clean silver Series 1 that sold at Shannons in May for $55,000.

This particular Series 1 RX-7 is a ’79 model and, according to the seller, has travelled and original 143,000 kilometres from new.

In addition, judging by the seller comments and the photos, the vehicle appears to be in good, authentic condition.

The RX-7 is $18,000 and could be a decent purchase for anyone looking at a car with appreciating qualities. 

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