1983 MAZDA (FB) RX-7 GS Silver / Black Cloth 33 Year Owner 91K Miles

1983 Mazda (FB Series 2) RX-7 GS
Sunbeam Silver Metallic (K3)
Black Velour / Vinyl Interior (00)
91,500 Miles
12A 1.1-Liter Wankel Rotary Engine
5-Speed Manual Transmission
100% Stock and Unmolested
Options (listed from the included 1983 marketing brochure)
Halogen Headlights
Swivel Overhead Map Light
Removable Sunroof Panel
Sport 3-Way Adjustable Seats
AM / FM Cassette Stereo
Dual Remote Control Mirrors
Electric Hatch Release
Quartz Clock
5I/2JJ Aluminum Alloy Wheels
Fresh Tune-Up Consisting of:
Carburetor Rebuild
Spark Plugs
Intake Manifold, Shutter, and Gaskets
Starter
Original Ownership from (1983-2016)
Complete Records
VIN: JM1FB3310D0749221
Stock #: 472
Background
The RX-7 was introduced in the late-1970s as Mazda’s option in the affordable and reliable Japanese sports car market. The RX-7’s recipe set it apart from the other entries from Japan, and what remained of the British sports car segment. At the heart of the FB RX-7 was the 1.1-liter Wankel rotary engine, which was compact enough to mount behind the front axle for a 50/50 weight balance and light enough to keep the RX-7’s curb weight under 2400 pounds. Barely the size of a five-gallon bucket, the Wankel engine revved so smoothly to its 7,000-RPM redline that an electronic buzzer was installed to warn of the impending redline. The 100-horsepower carbureted 12A engine was found in the Series 1 and Series 2 FB RX-7s, the later benefitting in 1981 from stylized bumpers, an improved front splitter, catalytic converters, and a 5-speed manual gearbox. In 1984 the Series 3 offered the optional fuel injected 13B engine good for 135-horse power. While not the fastest offering in its segment, the RX-7 was universally praised for its exceptional dynamics, weight distribution, and undiluted driving experience.
Summary
This 1983 Mazda RX-7 GS came to us from a Glen Shelly regular who purchased it from the original owner in 2016. It was originally delivered by Crouch Motor Co. in Boulder, Colorado in 1983 (the badge is still on the rear hatch) and remained in Colorado for the next decade. From there it went to the upper Midwest before coming back to Longmont, Colorado, when the original owner sold it. It was the original owner’s pride and joy, and the thick stack of documentation they kept shows frequent and regular services. The owner’s manual, warranty booklet, RX-7 maintenance booklet, and a 1983 RX-7 marketing booklet are also included. There is even a speeding ticket preserved in the records showing 76 mph in a 65 mph zone from 1992! The second owner turned it over to old-school RX-7 specialists Precision Import Repair for a comprehensive tune up. The carburetor was completely rebuilt, along with the intake manifold, shutter valve, and gaskets. The spark plugs and starter were also replaced, and a serviceable battery was installed. It starts every time, does not smoke, runs smoothly, pulls strongly, and passes emissions in Colorado. As it sits, it has a few cosmetic flaws (detailed below), but is a properly sorted and original example of a Series 2 FB RX-7. Driving it is a journey back in time to one of the most pure and undiluted sports cars of the early 1980s. We have left it largely un-touched other than the work done at Precision Imports, to keep the price down and pass it along in virtually the same condition as the original owner did after some 33 years of ownership.
Exterior
The Sunbeam Silver paint is largely original and very presentable. It does show the imperfections that would be expected after nearly four decades in the form of small dings and scratches, and some deformity in the front and rear valances—but that just adds to the story of originality. There is some surface rust on the undercarriage, pinch welds, right front lower fender, and rear valance, but nothing terminal—especially for early 1980s Japanese sheet metal. All trim is intact and in fair condition, although areas are pulling away on both doors. The flip-up headlights function correctly. The markers, turn signals, and taillights all have some light spider cracking but still present well; the left rear taillight lens needs to be re-glued. The windshield has light pitting and a chip in the upper center, but is crack-free. The windshield wiper arms and inserts are in good condition. The alloy aluminum wheels have moderate corrosion; we have several options to re-finish these we can recommend. The tires are adequate for short-term use, but should be replaced due to age.
Interior
The black cloth (velour) and vinyl interior is in very good shape. There are no odors and it has never been smoked in. The carpet is in very good shape with no glaring defects. The original owner had seat covers installed, which did an excellent job of protecting the seats. The seats have no rips or tears, or even moderate wear. The four-spoke steering wheel is in excellent shape, as is the dashboard behind it. All controls and options work, with the exception of the air conditioning—but that’s what the removable sunroof panel is for! All instruments and warning lights also function properly. The stereo volume knob can be scratchy, but once it’s adjusted, it sounds great—I love factory stereos! The heat blows warm and the blower motor is quiet. The door cards have some deformation, as does the headliner. The center armrest hinge is separated (I have a solution I can offer for this). The storage compartments behind the seats are clean, as is the rear hatch carpeting. The rear cargo straps are present, as are the spare tire and jack.
Mechanical
Thanks to being gone through by Precision Import Repair, it runs fantastically. The 12A fires on command hot starts or cold starts; the electric choke functions correctly. It idles smoothly and pulls smoothly to redline. There is no excessive smoke or indication of bad apex seals. The 5-speed transmission shifts perfectly smooth and the shifter bushings are crisp and tight. The clutch take-up is slightly high on the pedal, but it does not slip. The suspension is compliant and the brakes work great. There are no excessive driveline or wheel bearing noises or vibrations. As it sits, this is a great time-capsule example of a Series 2 FB RX-7. We have left it largely as it was when the original owner sold it. It could be enjoyed exactly as it is or given some cosmetic refreshing and taken to the next level. It represents an excellent value in the classic Japanese sports car market.

Glen Shelly is a low volume auto brokerage focused only on the highest quality vehicles. We are airline pilots, mechanics, and auto enthusiasts who bring a high level of professionalism and attention to detail to the automobile business. Our philosophy is to keep our inventory small so that we can focus on thorough mechanical and cosmetic preparation of the vehicles we select. We have over 20 years of experience restoring and repairing automobiles and are intimately familiar with our cars. We do the inspections, service, detailing, and corrective maintenance using only OEM parts and service manuals. We offer an informed and low-pressure sales environment resulting in a premium buying experience. Find out more about us at www.glenshelly.com.