Superb video! Greetings from the United Kingdom from a former ('92) FD owner, and a current RX-8 R3 driver. At last - a clear sighted presentation and crystal clear analysis of the FD RX-7 from someone with a deep-seated understanding of these beautiful and mysterious cars. The Rex is the antithesis of everything the modern automotive firmament has to offer. Driving the RX-7 is akin to falling in love with driving all over again: a life-long relationship. It helps that it is the most beautiful car ever designed- the true essence of a sports car. Thank you RAD Potential.
yo bro can i buy one from u hahahaha. jk im too poor as of now but man they are my dream car since i was a kid. how did you ever afford one i feel like i will never have enough money to get one.
21:24 this is probably one of the most important takeaways from this video. You went in depth, and that requires time in the seat. Solid review man, you got another sub
This guy needs to drive my RX7, an FD that was not beat on its whole life so the interior and exterior parts are not falling apart and the suspension was built for the best possible handling, not to look low and cool while losing all drivability like most FDs out there.
Definitely sticking around, watching your rotary experience unfold alongside my own. Your videos teach me a lot, who else is gonna wring out a 8500 rpm 12a now on YT for us to listen to sides you. Especially looking forward to a FB manual trans rebuild if it's comin. cheers!
I had my fd for over 13 year's. Single turbo, drives all the time, never left me stranded, drive mine often. Built good, maintained good, that's why mine has been great to me. 90 percent of the time human error would be cause to any mechanical device. Great engine, great car. Great videos
@@RADPotential quick question am 17 havent started working yet and my dream is to buy an fd does it worth to work untill 23 to 24 years old to buy one prices are kinda high lowest i found in usa where about 35 to 40k
Absolute truth! THE LOOKS! TOP F'N REASON! Exactly why I started searching to buy an FD, without ever driving one, or even sitting in one before! I just knew.
Great review. I've always said the rotary is fine, it's the supporting systems that are sketchy. It kills me when people talk shit about the engine, especially when they don't have any experience with it. I've had mine since 04 and I've had a few engines but some were outside factors. One engine was built by a guy that screwed me over on purpose and didn't even last 1k miles, one engine lost compression early due to the apex seals and a weird exhaust port shape done by the previous owner, one engine lost oil pressure to the rear bearing and was catastrophic. I've never lost a coolant seal or broken an apex seal. But my current engine is from 2014 and still going strong. I overbuild the supporting systems now.
Alot of guys are K20 swapping their Fd's, I personally think this is the best motor swap for any RX-7 for many reasons but mainly due to weight, cost, potential, and most of all reliability, I bought a new 2002 RSX type S with 5 miles and after 457,000 miles and 20yrs it proved to be gem, I ran bolt ons since I bought it, Spoon sports race header, throttle body, Tanabe exhaust, Kpro, it was fast af for its time and now pulled the Rsx apart for an AWD build with a K24, I also have a rust free all original Arizona sun baked 1983 GSL RX-7, I pulled the motor to sadly find the front and rear irons cracked both at the top dowel landings or holes/seats, so my K20a2 needs a rebuild and the 12a is really hard to find, I need help from you Eric and everyone here, I'm more excited to get my fb rolling before I finish my awd rsx project so should I go Fc 13b or 13b rew? Swapping the k20 into it has crossed my mind but I'm determined to keeping it a Rotory
Insta-sub. I've been faithful to the Dorito Cult for twenty years. I haven't owned an FD yet, but it's my next purchase. I've owned two first gens (SA & FB), two second gens (S4 T-II & S5 GTU-S), and an RX-8. I'm addicted, and always will be. In my humble opinion, the FD3S is hands down the most beautiful car ever built. Oh, and there are many, many rotary-powered cars that don't utilize a center-mounted tachometer... and they're not all Mazdas. Though, since this is a Mazda-focused channel, the cars that they built that didn't have center mounted tachs were Cosmos and several other older oddball vehicles that Mazda stuffed rotaries into. Cheers!
Excellent content, ever seeing one in NZ in 95 I wanted one . Got my first 7 in 99 a series 4 ( fc3s). Fast forward to 2007 and got my Fd3s 99 spec (series8). Back then prices were cheap eg. fc cost nzd $3k (motor wasn’t healthy). Now days 😅 the prices are insane esp since your part of the world started importing them in ( applies to most jdms actually) supply vs demand has definitely kicked in. Fd my all time fav car and has to Be rotary powered. Many more powerful and faster cars exist but for me this puts the biggest smile on my face 😃
Great video I feel same as you had 2 mk1 2 mk2 2 FD3S and 1 231 Rx8 just love Rotary’s My childhood dream have lived it Love your channel keep up the good posts Mel
If you buy an FD without a very solid background in old cars... you're insane. I've owned several 1st gens and sold many many sports cars... If you have 30k cash for RWD, put it towards a new Z. It weighs more but you get 400hp turbo charged reliable performance that will last 15 years. Alternately, Buy a new GR86 if you don't need to go fast or an FRS if you want to spend 10-15k... maybe less depending on condition. The FD was may dream until I had enough to buy one... and I decided I didn't need the hassle. Good on you for keeping yours on the road. I'd love to drive it if I was ever was so lucky.
My red 1993 RX7 FD is for sale. It is all stock except for a free flow stainless steel exhaust and cat converter. Never winter driven and has been garaged. Not driven for 10 years because it failed emission test at idling at that time. Then life got in the way. Compression was 100psi on each of 6 combustion chambers. There was no exhaust gas leak into the cooling system. Almost 180,000 Km on the clock. Make a descent offer. Locatet in Cambridge, Ontario, Canada.
I bought an FD roller about 6 months ago. Completely stripped interior, caged, fuel cell, carbon wing/bash bar, fully stich welded. No windows for Lexan- Besides that everything is there including the transmission- $6.5K Most likely going 20B N/A with billet plates and high compression RX-8 rotors. The thing is already light but the plan is for carbon/kevlar doors, front fenders, and hood. Time Attack in Japan ran two weeks ago and the FD's were still the fastest (with the exception of an Evo9) and in my opinion the best sounding and looking car on the track. I just didn't see any reason to spend a ton of money for a car to cruise around town with this car is meant to be on the rev limiter! Thanks again for another informative vid. brotha!
Heck yea man!!! Thats an epic build!!!!! One day soon I will make a trip out to Japan and get some laps at Tsukuba Circuit. I have spent a lot of laps there in video games in an FD. They are epic cars for sure. And super capable!!! Thanks!!!!
One of my closest friends has one of these - in black - LS6 swapped. Other than the random electrical gremlin, no A/C, or Power Steering, and the cabin sometimes smelling like ass'o'line, it's a really fun car! _for about 20 minutes or so_
Not sure if it's been mentioned, but yeah. FDs are not for tall people. However, the JDM example in the video has the JDM rails, of course, and they are about 4-5" shorter sliding back due to the rear "seats". If you have a JDM spec car, swap the rails for USDM, they mount right up giving you more leg room and marginal headroom.
Maaan I really appreciate the way you did the video! Was nice to watch and also nice to see the other cars around. I am gonna have a look at your other videos :) Shoutout from France!
Thank you SO much for doing this video. I love the way they look, I'm 6'2 and 250 (athletic as well, cant drive a miata because my leg wedges between shifter and steering wheel) though and I don't like cramped cars either... and there are so few available here I started to look about having one delivered but now, absolutely not. .
So a 5'6 guy like myself won't have a problem. At last, a perk of being a small guy. I've been interested in rotaries for the past few months. And FD got me interested.
Hey man! Love the channel, just took my rotary 240sx for its first drive and I got a nasty transmission noise.. wondering if you could take a quick listen and possibly offer any insight on what that noise might be coming from 😬
Damn man you're crushing my dreams, I'm 6'3 and now not I want to sit in one just to see how does it feels... I wouldn't be surprised if there were no fd's in my country to try it out though lmao... On that note, I'm worried that fd's are just gonna keep getting more expensive and in case everything works out well I might do the dumbest thing ever and buy an fd as my 1st car when I eventually rack up enough money. Great and forward video with no bs though, keep up the good work.
I daily my FD. 6’1” with my boots on. it’s snug but not uncomfortable. definitely make sure you have some type of flexibility to get in and out. More than likely you’ll need aftermarket steering. The seats have a super small adjustment, but if you finesse it to your comfort you’ll be fine.
That’s a really beautiful rx7! I got cuestión for you! Between rx7 and Supra which one it’s better to drive and performance? Of course stock no modifications!
I get that your not comfortable due to your size. I'm 6'1" and I fit well. I love it. It's a good fit for me. Not too small, but just right. I actually feel kinda bad that it is uncomfortable for you cause then you don't get to enjoy it like I do. Mine has low miles. 38k miles currently, so I don't have the creaks and broken interior pieces. Mines in excellent shape. I say this cause I think the condition of the car, combined with how well I fit, makes for an overall great experience. So although I get where you're coming from, I just wish you had a better setup for you specifically, to accommodate your size, and also a really well kept FD. You seem so pumped on the exterior looks, which I 100% agree on, and I think if everything else was good for you, like it is for me, I think you'd truly be in love!
Thanks so much for your comments!! I for sure agree. And I have been in FDs that are super well kept and driven them hard. It's like you said. I'm not comfortable in them so the experience is hindered by fighting the comfort. My solution was my C6 z06 corvette. Which arguably has similar lines and a timeless look. But just built bigger:) I'll get an FD one day haha.!!! I am jealous of all the folks who can fit in small cars. But I can reach the top shelf :)
so mazda still sells rx7 parts? i wonder why is it so hard to find parts for my rx7 fc tho? and really expensive when ordering some hard to find new parts even used parts are to find too.
Thanks for yet another great informative and enjoyable to watch video! Really really enjoyed your insights into how you spoke about the joy of driving the cars you have been associated with and experienced. Got my brother watch this video with me- he’s a rx8 owner wo bought himself one after driving my rx8 on a road trip from Germany to the Ukraine and back. He’s also owned a gen 2 rx7 and an rx3 Coupé We love how the rx8 is great to throw around in corners, has reasonable steering for one of the first electric systems, good turn in, a communicative rear end and a balanced chassis. The car feels like one piece- It feels like the front end is connected to the rear! How does the rx7 Fd fare in these respects? Would love some info! Maybe if you got time you could expand on this topic in future videos. Would also Love to hear more of your detailed thoughts and opinions on driving the 240z and c6! Love the channel best rotary channel ever- keep it up! Re the rev counter- rx3 Rx2 rx4
I'm 5' 6... I'm perfect for this car.... however I have been having a starting issue as of lately. I have a 92 JDM and every so ofter, the starter won't turn over but I can do a rolling start to crank it up. Turning the key has been acting weird as of late. I thought it would of been a blue relay like the usdm model but the early JDMs don't have one.
Oh man the fd was my "affordable" dream car for the longest time now and I feel like this dream is moving farther and farther away as its getting less and less affordable. Anyway will you fit a aftermarket seat into it, being 6'5'' my self im interested if this will help fitting in at all.
With an aftermarket seat and some custom brackets. It's do able, but tight on headroom with a helmet. Also will need to bring the wheel closer to you and a smaller diameter wheel.
@@zk560 that time wont come again jdm cars like this are becoming more and more popular day by day plus they are old and not alot of them where made sadly we wont see prices again at low never again especialy for rx7 gtrs Sxs and supras and so many others ...
My biggest "comfort" issue with my FD is the windows. I daily drove a FC for 4 years (I am 5'11) and got used to the room, so whenever I drive the FD I find my elbows banging the windows decently hard because of the weird angle and the fact that the windows are just a few inches closer than they are in a FC.
Pretty fair review here thanks. I'm 6'2 and also really don't feel comfortable sitting in these cars. The interior is very cramped which is why I never bought my own. I've driven both rhd and lhd versions and they pretty similar. From a wrenching pov the lhd cars are easier to work on since you don't have the steering column routed next to the turbo. If your a big guy the fb and fc are more spacious for interior space. Adding a quick release and steering wheel is a must. And totally nailed it with the interiors, they fall apart if you look at them. Stock seats are pretty comfy I have r1 suede like seats in mine and I love them
I'm 6'3" and with the stock steering wheel and seats it's not great. I changed the steering wheel years ago and got it a couple inches closer to me and it changed everything. I sat lower somehow, I could actually touch my knees together under the wheel, I didn't hit my hands on my knees when I was turning. And now that I'm finishing up my custom seats that sit me closer to the floor and hug me for corners, it's really all coming together. I've always felt the shifter was in the perfect place though. Changing the steering wheel made everything ergonomically perfect for me.
your right on the bad rap that they keep saying, as a 56 yr old guy and love and worked on many a motorcycle or car, damn some ppl. have the bucks to buy a rotary car. cute huh? but, oh yeah sure i also have the money to repair it at a qualified dealer.... wrong, they may find a basic oil change too expensive to other cars and not get that done on time well the list of a bad owner goes on. and we haveto fix it....
Great review. I use to think the fd was a great bang for buck a couple years ago but not anymore. As it has grown to be a classic collectors car, around NY the going rate is about $30k and that's without putting money into it because you know it's going to need parts replaced or even a new motor (worst case scenario). That's putting it into r32 gtr price territory and lets not forget a Corvette territory too. Missed the opportunity to buy one years ago but someday if I find a shell with a blown motor or something but not to crazy. Like you said these are old cars now and need replacement parts that most don't do on them.
A little off topic, looking for a replacement engine for a kit car... Would a rotary be a good pick? I just need a compact power plant that's easy to rebuild. 100,000 miles is more than enough life. It's supposed to use Subaru ej25 or so... But a performance build for 450 to 500 hp requires a machine shop every tear down if motor was ran... Because it twists... Idk, a typical 4 banger seems too long and tall...
@@RADPotential alright that's great. Thanks man. Not gonna lie, built rotaries seem more reliable than a built Subaru flat 4... Building ej's or fa's just seemed like a migraine.
is 30k alot, yes, but then you remember pretty much every new car starts at 25 k after taxes , and a sports car like a mx5 cost 28k new, a frs 27 etc.. and then you realize a FD , IMO one of the best chassis EVER made goes for 25-40k.. AND is going UP in value.. id say its a sweeet deal
@@RADPotential I'm still waiting on the mx5 to drop to around 16 ish, , absolutely amazing, and I own a SA. but yes a RX8 or s2000 are much better cars that people look over . I shit you not a GSLE is faster than a stock FRS by a few seconds in every measurement
@@fraided88 thats cool, cars go down in value , and then people start to realie they are good cars and demand drives them back up. If yoru argument is " they are worth ten " you are preety dumb..
Hey bro just wondering what you do for a living. I live in the city but I want to live around trees and have all that space looks expensive love to see it 🙏
@@RADPotential thanks for the reply! I went to trade school to study automotive but looks like I have to work even harder! Also since I have your attention what oil do you recommend for rotaries I have a rx8 and I’ve been running 10-30 castrol. I’m thinking about trying 5-40. Thank you for your time
Excellent video I just bought a 93 and yep it barely made it 30 minutes... I expected this to happen I actually thought to order a tow truck and was like nah .. it can make it to NYC its only an hour drive with traffic. 🤣😂🤣
How would you compare an FD to the FC particularly when you speak of driving these cars at their limits (across the board horsepower wise). Most opinions ive heard on this subject are usually biased towards the FD but im not convinced. Granted im pretty at home in my FC and there's so many factors that play into it.. size / height like you say, driving style and experience etc.
I have limited experience with high HP cars at the handling limits. More so just straight line experience which for me was very similar albeit I fit in the FC way better and am more comfortable. With regard to handing say at the 250-300 hp level. The FC is more predictable in my opinion. And I like the feedback from the FC better. Having shredded both on the Tail of the dragon and then assorted backroads that's my opinion. You'll have to drive them. Or I may get some opinio s from my friends who own both cars and compile a video.
underdog channel if ive ever seen one... hey man if u ever want to sell any of your rotary vehicles i would love to keep the legacy going i work with a bunch of haters so i want to get myself a fd rx7 still with the pop ups of course with the bumble bee was thinking about keeping her running until she doesnt and pull her out tear her down and do a full out 3 rotor build or a modest 2 rotor turbocharged setup i just want to make it sound as sick as possible and be able to drive it to work and back 12 miles... what do u think are there any good rx forums or ways to help me find myself a rotory to build? thanks soo much god bless, -peter joseph
Unpopular opinion, but I don't dig the styling of the FD as much as the FB, and not nearly as much as the FC. I own an FB but I think the FC looks the best out of all three. I guess that's good for my wallet considering FDs cost way more than the other two. I can't argue that it isn't an iconic car tho.
@@RADPotential thanks, living in a nice house like that surrounded by trees, woodlands, and windey roads has always been the dream (along with having an fd)
My personal opinion on the FD is that it's a great car with a great engine and of course look beautiful and do believe it's the best looking Japanese car period. That said I don't exactly have any desire to ever own one. It would be nice sure, but at the end of the day how much car are you actually getting for the money spent? Between my 1980 SA22C LS and 2010 R3 I spent a total of $5,000 for both cars together and everything I've put into both cars collectively still doesn't amount to the initial purchase cost of a worn and torn, but running & driving, FD. The SA of course doesn't hold a candle to either the FD or RX-8 in terms of performance and chassis capability, but it's not bad for a 40 year old sports car and the $1,000 it cost me to buy I was more than justified. As for the RX-8 I think the money spent on a good example compared to an FD in comparable condition is much more justifiable although they don't have anywhere near the same amount of "cool factor" that fanboys and ignorant car people give the FD. I spent $4,000 on my 2010 RX-8 R3 with 131,000 miles on the engine as well as the chassis and got 30,000 miles with zero hot start issues out of that engine before a set of shitty set of TREX D585 GM coils killed a side seal and 3 corner seals on one rotor. Sure it wasn't it the best shape and 130k miles on any sports car can be pretty hard on it, but with the rx-8 being less than a decade old it's nowhere near as bad as an FD in similar condition and mileage would be just because they're a much older car and time definitely takes it's toll on things, but even with that in mind I'd be lucky to get a stock FD in that condition for less than $20,000-$25,000 so in that sense I think the RX-8 is the better choice especially considering practicality, comfortable daily drivability and parts availability & prices
Sorry bro but maybe the reason you don’t like it is like you said, you’re too tall for it. That and your car sounds like a rusted tin can whenever you close the door or hood. Damn thing might also, like you also said, not be modded correctly (tuned correctly). If you say the steering is numb, there’s something extremely wrong with your setup. Other than my own personal opinion, I do like your channel and the way you present. So keep it up! 😊
100% Agree! I wanted to use that car for the video because it shows most of the FD issues very well as they have aged. I appreciate the comment!!! Thank you!
Yeah well..... if you have want to sell it to a shorter guy... just let me know ;) But forreal though I have been looking for one of these for a while, in decent shape of course
I am an agreement with most things said I have owned my Fd for 24 years. I am 6ft 2 and for me it is a great car to drive. The handling is great but you do need to know what you are doing. This car will bite you if you are not to experienced in driving rwd cars at speed. The rx8 is easier to drive at the limit. Good review and brap on
Yes I changed steering wheel to a momo flat bottom steering wheel. I also got a quick release to make it easier to get in and out of the car. Feel free to check out the history of my car and the new build. You hit many good points and you will see some of the things you spoke about in my build. My build is located in the forum rx7 club under 93 rx7 improving a great sportscar. I also had a first gen and I loved it as well. I cam from a v8 background but I fell in love with rotary cars. I own a v8 car for daily but nothing puts a smile on my face like the Fd. Brap on
Super underrated channel. Please keep this kind of content going!
Thank you sir!!!!! I will keep cranking!! Yall keep watching for me :)
Superb video! Greetings from the United Kingdom from a former ('92) FD owner, and a current RX-8 R3 driver. At last - a clear sighted presentation and crystal clear analysis of the FD RX-7 from someone with a deep-seated understanding of these beautiful and mysterious cars. The Rex is the antithesis of everything the modern automotive firmament has to offer. Driving the RX-7 is akin to falling in love with driving all over again: a life-long relationship. It helps that it is the most beautiful car ever designed- the true essence of a sports car. Thank you RAD Potential.
I love your video. As an owner of two FDs, I totally agree with keeping as stock as possible.
yo bro can i buy one from u hahahaha. jk im too poor as of now but man they are my dream car since i was a kid. how did you ever afford one i feel like i will never have enough money to get one.
21:24 this is probably one of the most important takeaways from this video. You went in depth, and that requires time in the seat. Solid review man, you got another sub
Thanks so much man!!
This guy needs to drive my RX7, an FD that was not beat on its whole life so the interior and exterior parts are not falling apart and the suspension was built for the best possible handling, not to look low and cool while losing all drivability like most FDs out there.
Definitely sticking around, watching your rotary experience unfold alongside my own. Your videos teach me a lot, who else is gonna wring out a 8500 rpm 12a now on YT for us to listen to sides you. Especially looking forward to a FB manual trans rebuild if it's comin. cheers!
Hell yea man!! Ill see about tearing that trans apart. I have broken a few of them here
I had my fd for over 13 year's. Single turbo, drives all the time, never left me stranded, drive mine often. Built good, maintained good, that's why mine has been great to me. 90 percent of the time human error would be cause to any mechanical device. Great engine, great car. Great videos
Thanks man!!!! Most cars break because we try to make them better :) haha
@@RADPotential quick question am 17 havent started working yet and my dream is to buy an fd does it worth to work untill 23 to 24 years old to buy one prices are kinda high lowest i found in usa where about 35 to 40k
@@balancebraker2608 try to make 100 dollars a day from doing ubereats as a side hustle and don't spend it at all.
Absolute truth!
THE LOOKS!
TOP F'N REASON!
Exactly why I started searching to buy an FD, without ever driving one, or even sitting in one before!
I just knew.
I already love this Channel. Not just cause of the FD, but the "MMMKAY" !
AWESOME!
Great review. I've always said the rotary is fine, it's the supporting systems that are sketchy. It kills me when people talk shit about the engine, especially when they don't have any experience with it. I've had mine since 04 and I've had a few engines but some were outside factors. One engine was built by a guy that screwed me over on purpose and didn't even last 1k miles, one engine lost compression early due to the apex seals and a weird exhaust port shape done by the previous owner, one engine lost oil pressure to the rear bearing and was catastrophic. I've never lost a coolant seal or broken an apex seal. But my current engine is from 2014 and still going strong. I overbuild the supporting systems now.
Alot of guys are K20 swapping their Fd's, I personally think this is the best motor swap for any RX-7 for many reasons but mainly due to weight, cost, potential, and most of all reliability, I bought a new 2002 RSX type S with 5 miles and after 457,000 miles and 20yrs it proved to be gem, I ran bolt ons since I bought it, Spoon sports race header, throttle body, Tanabe exhaust, Kpro, it was fast af for its time and now pulled the Rsx apart for an AWD build with a K24, I also have a rust free all original Arizona sun baked 1983 GSL RX-7, I pulled the motor to sadly find the front and rear irons cracked both at the top dowel landings or holes/seats, so my K20a2 needs a rebuild and the 12a is really hard to find, I need help from you Eric and everyone here, I'm more excited to get my fb rolling before I finish my awd rsx project so should I go Fc 13b or 13b rew? Swapping the k20 into it has crossed my mind but I'm determined to keeping it a Rotory
Insta-sub. I've been faithful to the Dorito Cult for twenty years. I haven't owned an FD yet, but it's my next purchase. I've owned two first gens (SA & FB), two second gens (S4 T-II & S5 GTU-S), and an RX-8. I'm addicted, and always will be. In my humble opinion, the FD3S is hands down the most beautiful car ever built.
Oh, and there are many, many rotary-powered cars that don't utilize a center-mounted tachometer... and they're not all Mazdas. Though, since this is a Mazda-focused channel, the cars that they built that didn't have center mounted tachs were Cosmos and several other older oddball vehicles that Mazda stuffed rotaries into.
Cheers!
I just started on my journey with a 1st gen.. This video affirmed me that I made the right choice. Thanks!
5:55 when the sound is so good doggo came up to listen
in 2 weeks Im buying back my FD that I sold 6 years ago🔥🔥🔥🔥
by the way great content🍺
Hell yea man!!! Its always hard to get a car back after you sell it. That's awesome!!
Excellent content, ever seeing one in NZ in 95 I wanted one . Got my first 7 in 99 a series 4 ( fc3s). Fast forward to 2007 and got my Fd3s 99 spec (series8). Back then prices were cheap eg. fc cost nzd $3k (motor wasn’t healthy). Now days 😅 the prices are insane esp since your part of the world started importing them in ( applies to most jdms actually) supply vs demand has definitely kicked in. Fd my all time fav car and has to Be rotary powered. Many more powerful and faster cars exist but for me this puts the biggest smile on my face 😃
Bought my first 7 in 2005. Owned at least one ever since 👌
Great video
I feel same as you had 2 mk1 2 mk2 2 FD3S and 1 231 Rx8 just love Rotary’s
My childhood dream have lived it
Love your channel keep up the good posts
Mel
As a Mazda fanboy I salute your collection! That truck is sick.
If you buy an FD without a very solid background in old cars... you're insane. I've owned several 1st gens and sold many many sports cars... If you have 30k cash for RWD, put it towards a new Z. It weighs more but you get 400hp turbo charged reliable performance that will last 15 years. Alternately, Buy a new GR86 if you don't need to go fast or an FRS if you want to spend 10-15k... maybe less depending on condition. The FD was may dream until I had enough to buy one... and I decided I didn't need the hassle. Good on you for keeping yours on the road. I'd love to drive it if I was ever was so lucky.
going into the air force hoping to get stationed in japan so i can take a look at some of these
love the complete blacked out look
My red 1993 RX7 FD is for sale. It is all stock except for a free flow stainless steel exhaust and cat converter.
Never winter driven and has been garaged. Not driven for 10 years because it failed emission test at idling at that time. Then life got in the way.
Compression was 100psi on each of 6 combustion chambers. There was no exhaust gas leak into the cooling system.
Almost 180,000 Km on the clock. Make a descent offer. Locatet in Cambridge, Ontario, Canada.
Appreciate the honesty bro. I still want one. Just not today. Keep the videos coming
I bought an FD roller about 6 months ago. Completely stripped interior, caged, fuel cell, carbon wing/bash bar, fully stich welded. No windows for Lexan-
Besides that everything is there including the transmission- $6.5K Most likely going 20B N/A with billet plates and high compression RX-8 rotors. The thing is already light but the plan is for carbon/kevlar doors, front fenders, and hood. Time Attack in Japan ran two weeks ago and the FD's were still the fastest (with the exception of an Evo9) and in my opinion the best sounding and looking car on the track. I just didn't see any reason to spend a ton of money for a car to cruise around town with this car is meant to be on the rev limiter! Thanks again for another informative vid. brotha!
Heck yea man!!! Thats an epic build!!!!! One day soon I will make a trip out to Japan and get some laps at Tsukuba Circuit. I have spent a lot of laps there in video games in an FD. They are epic cars for sure. And super capable!!! Thanks!!!!
One of my closest friends has one of these - in black - LS6 swapped. Other than the random electrical gremlin, no A/C, or Power Steering, and the cabin sometimes smelling like ass'o'line, it's a really fun car! _for about 20 minutes or so_
Not sure if it's been mentioned, but yeah. FDs are not for tall people. However, the JDM example in the video has the JDM rails, of course, and they are about 4-5" shorter sliding back due to the rear "seats". If you have a JDM spec car, swap the rails for USDM, they mount right up giving you more leg room and marginal headroom.
FD is my dream car and saving to get one still..over in Australia they are worth alot
Maaan I really appreciate the way you did the video! Was nice to watch and also nice to see the other cars around. I am gonna have a look at your other videos :)
Shoutout from France!
Thanks man!!!!! Let me know if you want to see anything in particular
Thank you so much for making this video man bro
Thank you SO much for doing this video. I love the way they look, I'm 6'2 and 250 (athletic as well, cant drive a miata because my leg wedges between shifter and steering wheel) though and I don't like cramped cars either... and there are so few available here I started to look about having one delivered but now, absolutely not. .
I've watched the start like 5 times over already 🤣 Awesome. God damn that FD is insane..
So a 5'6 guy like myself won't have a problem. At last, a perk of being a small guy. I've been interested in rotaries for the past few months. And FD got me interested.
Great video by the way. Just found your channel and I really enjoyed it. I am now subscribed!
Thank you!!!!
Hey man! Love the channel, just took my rotary 240sx for its first drive and I got a nasty transmission noise.. wondering if you could take a quick listen and possibly offer any insight on what that noise might be coming from 😬
That's mega cool!!
Damn man you're crushing my dreams, I'm 6'3 and now not I want to sit in one just to see how does it feels... I wouldn't be surprised if there were no fd's in my country to try it out though lmao... On that note, I'm worried that fd's are just gonna keep getting more expensive and in case everything works out well I might do the dumbest thing ever and buy an fd as my 1st car when I eventually rack up enough money. Great and forward video with no bs though, keep up the good work.
I daily my FD. 6’1” with my boots on. it’s snug but not uncomfortable. definitely make sure you have some type of flexibility to get in and out. More than likely you’ll need aftermarket steering. The seats have a super small adjustment, but if you finesse it to your comfort you’ll be fine.
I'm 6'3 and fit nicely into mine. Wouldn't want to be in an accident. Tight fit but comfortable once you're in.
That’s a really beautiful rx7! I got cuestión for you! Between rx7 and Supra which one it’s better to drive and performance? Of course stock no modifications!
great video man, love from ireland 🇮🇪
Thanks man!!!! Cheers!!
RX-3 and Cosmo don't have center mounted tachs!
Nicely done rx owning!!!
I get that your not comfortable due to your size.
I'm 6'1" and I fit well.
I love it. It's a good fit for me. Not too small, but just right.
I actually feel kinda bad that it is uncomfortable for you cause then you don't get to enjoy it like I do.
Mine has low miles. 38k miles currently, so I don't have the creaks and broken interior pieces. Mines in excellent shape. I say this cause I think the condition of the car, combined with how well I fit, makes for an overall great experience.
So although I get where you're coming from, I just wish you had a better setup for you specifically, to accommodate your size, and also a really well kept FD. You seem so pumped on the exterior looks, which I 100% agree on, and I think if everything else was good for you, like it is for me, I think you'd truly be in love!
Thanks so much for your comments!! I for sure agree. And I have been in FDs that are super well kept and driven them hard. It's like you said. I'm not comfortable in them so the experience is hindered by fighting the comfort. My solution was my C6 z06 corvette. Which arguably has similar lines and a timeless look. But just built bigger:) I'll get an FD one day haha.!!! I am jealous of all the folks who can fit in small cars. But I can reach the top shelf :)
@@RADPotential I can do both lol kinda. Fd is a lil small. But manageable :)
JC cosmo, RX-5 cosmo, RX-4, RX-3, RX-2, R100, Cosmo sport 110S and technically the RX500 as well did not have center mounted tachometers
Almost got them all. S3 rx7 doesn't either
Wait, people can drive in USA w steering inside the car being on the right?
Haha, in mine, passengers get the door shut, and opened by ME!
so mazda still sells rx7 parts? i wonder why is it so hard to find parts for my rx7 fc tho? and really expensive when ordering some hard to find new parts even used parts are to find too.
Yea they do. You will pay for it though
Thanks for yet another great informative and enjoyable to watch video! Really really enjoyed your insights into how you spoke about the joy of driving the cars you have been associated with and experienced.
Got my brother watch this video with me- he’s a rx8 owner wo bought himself one after driving my rx8 on a road trip from Germany to the Ukraine and back. He’s also owned a gen 2 rx7 and an rx3 Coupé
We love how the rx8 is great to throw around in corners, has reasonable steering for one of the first electric systems, good turn in, a communicative rear end and a balanced chassis. The car feels like one piece- It feels like the front end is connected to the rear!
How does the rx7 Fd fare in these respects? Would love some info!
Maybe if you got time you could expand on this topic in future videos. Would also Love to hear more of your detailed thoughts and opinions on driving the 240z and c6!
Love the channel best rotary channel ever- keep it up!
Re the rev counter- rx3 Rx2 rx4
Thank you so much man!!! I could talk for hours about these things. Guess I should just start filming more stuff like this!!
@@RADPotential that would be great
I'm 5' 6... I'm perfect for this car.... however I have been having a starting issue as of lately. I have a 92 JDM and every so ofter, the starter won't turn over but I can do a rolling start to crank it up. Turning the key has been acting weird as of late. I thought it would of been a blue relay like the usdm model but the early JDMs don't have one.
Oh man the fd was my "affordable" dream car for the longest time now and I feel like this dream is moving farther and farther away as its getting less and less affordable. Anyway will you fit a aftermarket seat into it, being 6'5'' my self im interested if this will help fitting in at all.
With an aftermarket seat and some custom brackets. It's do able, but tight on headroom with a helmet. Also will need to bring the wheel closer to you and a smaller diameter wheel.
Don’t worry man. There’ll be a time we’re the price will go back to normal.
@@zk560 that time wont come again jdm cars like this are becoming more and more popular day by day plus they are old and not alot of them where made sadly we wont see prices again at low never again especialy for rx7 gtrs Sxs and supras and so many others ...
i mean 25k for an fd seems good thats like the average price of a decent car. they are affordable if u have a decent job
@@zk560 well the time has came .....they're dropping day by day
always wanted one, looks and sounds great but sounds like a headache to deal with rotary problems and interior sound noise
Not my experience, and my '93 FD has 180,000 Km on the clock.
I needed to watch this. 👍
My biggest "comfort" issue with my FD is the windows. I daily drove a FC for 4 years (I am 5'11) and got used to the room, so whenever I drive the FD I find my elbows banging the windows decently hard because of the weird angle and the fact that the windows are just a few inches closer than they are in a FC.
You right 100%. Nice fd! ☮️
Cosmo. I believe did not have a center tach
I know a guy who sold his panels for $2200. The interior alone is worth probably $6-7k.
I still want one
GET ONE MAN!!! set a goal and work hard!
Pretty fair review here thanks. I'm 6'2 and also really don't feel comfortable sitting in these cars. The interior is very cramped which is why I never bought my own. I've driven both rhd and lhd versions and they pretty similar. From a wrenching pov the lhd cars are easier to work on since you don't have the steering column routed next to the turbo. If your a big guy the fb and fc are more spacious for interior space. Adding a quick release and steering wheel is a must. And totally nailed it with the interiors, they fall apart if you look at them. Stock seats are pretty comfy I have r1 suede like seats in mine and I love them
I'm 6'3" and with the stock steering wheel and seats it's not great. I changed the steering wheel years ago and got it a couple inches closer to me and it changed everything. I sat lower somehow, I could actually touch my knees together under the wheel, I didn't hit my hands on my knees when I was turning. And now that I'm finishing up my custom seats that sit me closer to the floor and hug me for corners, it's really all coming together. I've always felt the shifter was in the perfect place though. Changing the steering wheel made everything ergonomically perfect for me.
your right on the bad rap that they keep saying, as a 56 yr old guy and love and worked on many a motorcycle or car, damn some ppl. have the bucks to buy a rotary car. cute huh? but, oh yeah sure i also have the money to repair it at a qualified dealer.... wrong, they may find a basic oil change too expensive to other cars and not get that done on time well the list of a bad owner goes on. and we haveto fix it....
Great review. I use to think the fd was a great bang for buck a couple years ago but not anymore. As it has grown to be a classic collectors car, around NY the going rate is about $30k and that's without putting money into it because you know it's going to need parts replaced or even a new motor (worst case scenario). That's putting it into r32 gtr price territory and lets not forget a Corvette territory too. Missed the opportunity to buy one years ago but someday if I find a shell with a blown motor or something but not to crazy. Like you said these are old cars now and need replacement parts that most don't do on them.
A little off topic, looking for a replacement engine for a kit car... Would a rotary be a good pick? I just need a compact power plant that's easy to rebuild. 100,000 miles is more than enough life. It's supposed to use Subaru ej25 or so... But a performance build for 450 to 500 hp requires a machine shop every tear down if motor was ran... Because it twists... Idk, a typical 4 banger seems too long and tall...
Yea man a 13b REW with a small single turbo would achieve that HP number on a stock engine from mazda with no issues at all
@@RADPotential alright that's great. Thanks man. Not gonna lie, built rotaries seem more reliable than a built Subaru flat 4... Building ej's or fa's just seemed like a migraine.
is 30k alot, yes, but then you remember pretty much every new car starts at 25 k after taxes , and a sports car like a mx5 cost 28k new, a frs 27 etc.. and then you realize a FD , IMO one of the best chassis EVER made goes for 25-40k.. AND is going UP in value.. id say its a sweeet deal
Id rather buy a 15k mint fresh rx8 than every cat you listed haha
@@RADPotential I'm still waiting on the mx5 to drop to around 16 ish, , absolutely amazing, and I own a SA. but yes a RX8 or s2000 are much better cars that people look over . I shit you not a GSLE is faster than a stock FRS by a few seconds in every measurement
remember that these cars were under 10k, used, old, rusty. Only thing that has changed is the price.
@@fraided88 thats cool, cars go down in value , and then people start to realie they are good cars and demand drives them back up. If yoru argument is " they are worth ten " you are preety dumb..
@@fraided88 Under 10k, true. Rusty, not exactly. I suppose it depends on where you are and how the car was cared for.
I don’t even need to watch this video,cuz the FD Rx-7 is and will always be my dream car
Comos don't have a center tach I believe not 100 sure but a good guess
Hey bro just wondering what you do for a living. I live in the city but I want to live around trees and have all that space looks expensive love to see it 🙏
The short story is, I am an engineer, I work hard, and I live way out in the country.
@@RADPotential thanks for the reply! I went to trade school to study automotive but looks like I have to work even harder! Also since I have your attention what oil do you recommend for rotaries I have a rx8 and I’ve been running 10-30 castrol. I’m thinking about trying 5-40. Thank you for your time
I usually run a 20w50 racing oil. VR1 or Renewable lubricants
Exceptional diction incredible video well spoken informative entirely entertaining 5 stars
Excellent video I just bought a 93 and yep it barely made it 30 minutes... I expected this to happen I actually thought to order a tow truck and was like nah .. it can make it to NYC its only an hour drive with traffic. 🤣😂🤣
Looking to buy one for a year now
They pop up but you’ll have to travel
Looks like mine with out all the vac tubes and ...... been sitting in the race trailer. Judge Ito motor ( bad ass) is out . One day....... lol 92 R1
you have a nice rx7 man i love rx7
Great video!!
for some reason i can already smell the interior
Would a stock ported engine with bolt-ons last longer and be more reliable than street/bridge/peripheral that had the same bolt-ons?
I’m curious to know. Where did you even find a repu? I’ve never seen one, never seen one for sale online either🤔
just saw one for the first time ever the other week parked up, nice old yellow and plenty of rust holes
I got a 1986 Mazda RX7 FC if your interested
Cosmo digital dash. speedo / tach shared left/right.
you could get a aluminum passenger handle
why you wiggle the shifter before every startup 😂
Make sure its in neutral
What wheels are those? Great video
Enkie NT03
How would you compare an FD to the FC particularly when you speak of driving these cars at their limits (across the board horsepower wise). Most opinions ive heard on this subject are usually biased towards the FD but im not convinced. Granted im pretty at home in my FC and there's so many factors that play into it.. size / height like you say, driving style and experience etc.
I have limited experience with high HP cars at the handling limits. More so just straight line experience which for me was very similar albeit I fit in the FC way better and am more comfortable. With regard to handing say at the 250-300 hp level. The FC is more predictable in my opinion. And I like the feedback from the FC better. Having shredded both on the Tail of the dragon and then assorted backroads that's my opinion. You'll have to drive them. Or I may get some opinio s from my friends who own both cars and compile a video.
underdog channel if ive ever seen one... hey man if u ever want to sell any of your rotary vehicles i would love to keep the legacy going i work with a bunch of haters so i want to get myself a fd rx7 still with the pop ups of course with the bumble bee was thinking about keeping her running until she doesnt and pull her out tear her down and do a full out 3 rotor build or a modest 2 rotor turbocharged setup i just want to make it sound as sick as possible and be able to drive it to work and back 12 miles... what do u think are there any good rx forums or ways to help me find myself a rotory to build? thanks soo much god bless,
-peter joseph
Follow along here, and I can share cars for sale on my social media.
I removed my drivers seat and added 2 inches to the seat rails to get it back to touch the rear seat. I’m 6’7” 😏
S3 ain't got rev count and same with the 323 hatchy my brother has with a 13b
So fkn beautiful.
Unpopular opinion, but I don't dig the styling of the FD as much as the FB, and not nearly as much as the FC. I own an FB but I think the FC looks the best out of all three. I guess that's good for my wallet considering FDs cost way more than the other two. I can't argue that it isn't an iconic car tho.
Named your dog Letty!? Yes haha
Complete good quality lhd black interior is usually 12k to 15k
Series 3 rx7 and jc Cosmo no center tach
84 rx-7s had equal sized side by side rpm and speed gauges. Not sure about the 85 letter cars.
Meant to say 85 5 letter cars.
70k in Aussie , I’ll take two thx
why remove popups
headlights covers cost more than a First gen rx7 haha
@@RADPotential still its kinda gay to do it
How tall are you?
I want one
What state or area is that? Ive always wanted to live in an area like this!
Middle TN
@@RADPotential thanks, living in a nice house like that surrounded by trees, woodlands, and windey roads has always been the dream (along with having an fd)
It comes with a lot of work. But hard work pays off!
Cosmos?
Like a eunos cosmo or the old school cosmo?
My personal opinion on the FD is that it's a great car with a great engine and of course look beautiful and do believe it's the best looking Japanese car period. That said I don't exactly have any desire to ever own one. It would be nice sure, but at the end of the day how much car are you actually getting for the money spent? Between my 1980 SA22C LS and 2010 R3 I spent a total of $5,000 for both cars together and everything I've put into both cars collectively still doesn't amount to the initial purchase cost of a worn and torn, but running & driving, FD. The SA of course doesn't hold a candle to either the FD or RX-8 in terms of performance and chassis capability, but it's not bad for a 40 year old sports car and the $1,000 it cost me to buy I was more than justified. As for the RX-8 I think the money spent on a good example compared to an FD in comparable condition is much more justifiable although they don't have anywhere near the same amount of "cool factor" that fanboys and ignorant car people give the FD. I spent $4,000 on my 2010 RX-8 R3 with 131,000 miles on the engine as well as the chassis and got 30,000 miles with zero hot start issues out of that engine before a set of shitty set of TREX D585 GM coils killed a side seal and 3 corner seals on one rotor. Sure it wasn't it the best shape and 130k miles on any sports car can be pretty hard on it, but with the rx-8 being less than a decade old it's nowhere near as bad as an FD in similar condition and mileage would be just because they're a much older car and time definitely takes it's toll on things, but even with that in mind I'd be lucky to get a stock FD in that condition for less than $20,000-$25,000 so in that sense I think the RX-8 is the better choice especially considering practicality, comfortable daily drivability and parts availability & prices
who is the brown dog in the background?
That's Letty, she's fast and furious
Very nice 👍🏽
Thank you sir!
Sorry bro but maybe the reason you don’t like it is like you said, you’re too tall for it. That and your car sounds like a rusted tin can whenever you close the door or hood. Damn thing might also, like you also said, not be modded correctly (tuned correctly).
If you say the steering is numb, there’s something extremely wrong with your setup.
Other than my own personal opinion, I do like your channel and the way you present. So keep it up! 😊
100% Agree! I wanted to use that car for the video because it shows most of the FD issues very well as they have aged.
I appreciate the comment!!! Thank you!
If the rotary engine was so reliable how come they don't put it in other cars
Gas/oil crisis
Yeah well..... if you have want to sell it to a shorter guy... just let me know ;)
But forreal though I have been looking for one of these for a while, in decent shape of course
Haha this one isn't mine to sell. But they are out there...getting hard to find deals for it.
@@RADPotential Ahh sad days, haven't found anywhere good to actually buy one in good shape for a decent price nowadays
just got mine for 45k to make videos about it. Low miles and original so it was worth it but god damn handing over the check hurt 😂
Hahah I'll change the price in the title to 45k
I am an agreement with most things said I have owned my Fd for 24 years. I am 6ft 2 and for me it is a great car to drive. The handling is great but you do need to know what you are doing. This car will bite you if you are not to experienced in driving rwd cars at speed. The rx8 is easier to drive at the limit. Good review and brap on
Thank you!! Did you change seats or steering wheel? My legs are so long I just don't fit haha!!! Thats awesome you have had your car for 24 years!!!
Yes I changed steering wheel to a momo flat bottom steering wheel. I also got a quick release to make it easier to get in and out of the car. Feel free to check out the history of my car and the new build. You hit many good points and you will see some of the things you spoke about in my build. My build is located in the forum rx7 club under 93 rx7 improving a great sportscar. I also had a first gen and I loved it as well. I cam from a v8 background but I fell in love with rotary cars. I own a v8 car for daily but nothing puts a smile on my face like the Fd. Brap on