At 53 years old, I enjoyed this episode more than all the others.... (and I watched them all). These were 3 of THE sports cars of my generation. Well done, gentlemen!! The 300ZX Twin Turbo still holds 1st place in my heart.
I’m only 36 and I was a massive 300zx fan in the 90s. Couldn’t drive yet, let alone afford one, but they were important to my love of cars. That and a GTS Viper.
@@kc510 I know exactly how you feel. That's how I felt when I saw the 1978 280ZX @ ten years old. Couldn't drive yet - but always loved the "Z" ever since.
I remember when supras weren’t even loved that much and nobody wanted the 300zx everyone always loved the gtrs,rx7s and evos I’m in Australia though so different scene
Had a 90 twin, by far the best car I ever owned, especially the rear wheel steer,loved bending it into corners so surgical! Did everything incredibly! Miss it to this day!
Yep the Supra had the best engine, the RX-7 had the best handling, but the 300ZXTT was the best all round tourer in stock form and best looking among the three.
@@anydaynow01i understand looks are subjective but I’m sorry the rx7 is objectively the best looking and widely regarded as one of the most timeless designs EVER let alone of the 90s jdm cars
The RX-7 is timeless (well, except for the pop up headlights). Honestly, it looks so much better than most of todays sports cars. I get 997 987 vibes. Cars with a smooth pebble shape and no fake vents look good forever.
There's nothing quite like an FD RX-7 or Nissan Skyline on a quiet back road. Just the best! Loved the video and the 4:3 crop.. giving me all the right feelings haha.
I remember a quote from Jeremy Clarkson it looks like a pornographers car lol. I dig it. All three seem to have a driver focused interior. I would still like a third gen RX-7. One day it will be mine…it will be mine.
I'm the owner of the Supra in this episode and I got the opportunity to watch Paul and Todd film this episode in person. Truly an amazing experience. Todd even let me drive his 300ZX!
@@Nash_Nismo Man, i have so much to say about the episode. I thought it was all really incredible. I got to drive the Z (Todd's car) and while i couldn't drive this Mazda (owner wasn't there at the shoot for permission) I have a buddy with a LHD FD and have driven it. I did ride in this FD with Paul, it actually started to get hot while going up and down the highway. I'm obviously biased with the Supra but I can respect their decisions for which cars they picked 1, 2, 3. Paul's choice for the FD being 1st makes complete sense, he's a big Porsche guy and the Mazda is closest to the feeling of a Porsche. Todd's first love was the Z so when I watched them shoot their conclusions at the end of the episode, it came to no surprise he chose the Z. Really, i don't think you can go wrong with any of these cars. If i didn't own a Supra and had to choose between the Mazda or the Z, i would pick the Z. It is really amazing how similar it drives like my car and I own a 240sx also, so i have a special place in my heart for Nissan too.
The Z32 300ZX (to me) is still the most beautiful car of the group, inside and out, and isn't emotion all part of the lure of owning and driving a sportscar? They're all outstanding but, I've always been a fan and I put my money where my mouth is as I owned a 93 300Zx (Sapphire Blue Metallic 5-sp) for 6 years, loved it, it was awesome!
I've owned all three of those cars at different times. Bought the Supra new, the 300ZX and Rx7 with low miles and only a couple years old. The Nissan and Mazda were very prone to snap oversteer while the Toyota was so planted and easy to drive fast. I loved all three vehicles. I wish I had all three in my garage today. All three are absolutely beautiful to look at and drive.
Outside of old Motorweek reviews perhaps, I think this is the first video I've watched where I've seen such an open and honest discussion and comparison between these three cars, and why we as enthusiasts think so highly of them. I don't think I could've picked anyone better to make it happen either. I appreciate you both for taking the time and putting forth the effort to bring as-close-to-stock examples of these cars together in one place, as well as the owners who were kind enough to contribute. Bravo!
It’s funny how Todd rated these beautiful machines…I was car shopping back in 96 and had the chance to test drive one of the last of the Nissan Z32 two seater. I remember clearly that it was pearl white with black interior then went to test drive the Supra… it was black on beige interior. Till today I remember those two cars so well and enjoyed them but I thought the 300zx was the better more connected choice. I loved it so much and I still think it is one of all time best sport cars and it would still look at home if it rolled out of the factory today. If only I had a time machine
As someone that owns an FD, I get a little bored of hearing the same things over and over. Its become a bit of a meme, its nowhere near as fragile as people make out and automotive journalists regurgitating the same overexaggerated phrases don't help. However with that to one side, this was a really enjoyable video to watch. With as always fantastic production value. Nice job guys!
The reliability song and dance made me step away from the video. Any FD content that goes into that. I like old magazine reviews of when they were cheaper that talk about dynamics alone and how exhilarating it is. WE GET IT, IT'S TEMPERAMENTAL But everyone fails to mention that blown a rotary engine will still run. It's one of the few that can actually do that.
They are a bit more sensitive to proper maintenance... but if you maintain them right, reliability is not an issue. The problem is that most people treated their rotary engine like a piston engine
Still have our 1990 since delivery... Still wondering what tires they were running since you can't find performance tires for the 16-inch wheels anymore.
@@MightyAA251 TOYO PROXES T1R 245/45/16 is what I'm using here in AU however, we are slowly getting pushed to aftermarket wheel options because these tyres are very expensive and not sure if they are even available anymore. I really do like the STD wheels, the rear 8.5" fit perfectly and they scream Z32.
What a well done video! I think your prices for those cars in near stock form are less than half of what you would actually pay. If you can find me nearly stock fds for 22+, and rz supras for 35+ I'll take them all :). I have a 100% stock fd type RZ rx7 with 35k miles, and a stock r32 skyline gtr with 24k miles. If you are ever in the PWN and would like to use them for a video I would be so happy to let you drive them!
I grew up in the 90s so this video brings back a lot of memories. I remember as a kid, I saw a red 300ZX TT taking a quick u-turn & speeding off and it was the first car I fell in love with. Also recall going to a Toyota Dealership with my parents and enamored by the brand new white Supra on the floor room. In fact, I recall my mom making a comment on it's beauty. I finally have the money to buy one of these, but it is impossible to find stock. My search will continue. One of these day I will get one and die a happy man.
I bought a 1990 300ZX Twin Turbo new. Still the best car that I've ever owned. Nissan hit a home run with this car; the later 350Z and 370Z just didn't measure up.
370 is excellent I drive one everyday but youre right, it doesnt have the same feel the Turbo 300ZX did. The looks are there, the performance is there but its just seems to be lacking compared to the 300ZX
What a great review. In the early nineties I test drove all these cars brand new, and just went crazy over the RX7 in Montego Blue. I still fantasize about it. The jolt you would get when the small turbo would hand it off to the second turbo was intoxicating. It was the perfect car in size and looks.The hum of the engine, the snicking snick of the shifter. Look at it now, it’s timeless in design. It’s beautiful, it’s sensual. It makes me wonder if Mazda could build this engine now without regard to emissions, could it make it reliable? Sadly I settled on a new Corvette, they made me a better offer on price. This Mazda was my true love.
Well the thing is , the rotary 13b engine was a pretty reliable engine, the problem where owner's who didnt know enough about these kind of engines, so ended up waiting to long to do certain maintenance and preventive care, it needs more and specialised maintenance at lower mile intervals than a normal piston car. Also small things like letting it heat up a little before driving , dont drive it just 1-2 miles and then turn it off again, run it to redline minimaly once per drive , if you end your drive , let it sit in neutral for 20 seconds before turning the ignition off, only use the very best oil... all these kind of little things have to be taken into account owning a 13b engine... if you are reminded of all those things, you'll have a pretty reliable rotary 🙂 Greetz
I was just starting high school and we had my dads mazda truck at the dealership for some reason.... they had a blue RX7 indoors, and yeah... went n sat in it, thing fit like a glove. I only imagine a 911 gt3 as fitting the same/better...
These 3 cars were my youth. The Z32 became the first sports car of my generation that I lusted after. I just bought a 91' TT and finally felt all the reasons I loved this car as a kid.
@inhim05 i really enjoy it. It's still very fun to drive, even if it's not that fast by today's standards. It's smoother than I thought for all stock and the power is still good at 300hp. It is a pain to work on with the tight engine bay, so having a trusted mechanic is important. Other than that I love it.
The z32 is a JDM icon, super slept on just because it wasn’t some hero car…. Toyota had to rework the Supra from the ground up when Nissan released the z32 and for very good reason. It’s such a great car. My list goes Z32, Rx7, Supra
Yep same here. In a way I'm glad the Z32 TT wasn't the movie star, it's still attainable to me now, I'm actually shopping for a clean one now. The first thing I'm going to do is change out the subframe and tension rod bushings for Nismo units. In my old one they made all the difference to tighten up the turn in and mid corner rear stability.
Finally it is up! Enjoyed watching this on Amazon Prime. I love how giddy Paul was driving the FD, have never seen him quite so emotional about a car before. "I think this is one of the benchmarks for sports cars of all time." High praise indeed.
Z32 TT 6MT blew my mind the first time I saw it at age 12 - it looked like a spaceship from the future compared to everything else. It was the first fast car I ever owned, and the first car I sadly crashed - I still mourn it to this day, I've tried to like the newer Z models but their interiors just don't do it for me. RX7 is possibly the most beautiful Japanese car ever made - such great lines, It's just so beautiful and the engine makes it completely exotic. Supras somehow just never pulled me in as much as the other 2, and for 20 years since FF I've thought I was the only one and must be crazy. Thank you for letting me know I'm not alone!
I feel exactly the same about the Supra. I was a huge fan of the MKII as it was the status car to own in it's time where I grew up (Upper West Side NYC). The MKII was a let down, and by the time the MKIV came out i had pretty much forgotten about the Supra marque. I'm partial to Mazda RX7's as the 82' RX7 was my 1st car (l now own all 3 generations). But Nissan X line was always a contender in my book, l just never went in the direction.
I would agree. Seeing the RX-7 for the first time in person in 1993 casually parked at a mall parking lot in candy red, it looked as good as any Ferrari.
I feel exactly as you do about the Supra. It has smooth and swoopy styling but its not as sleek nor as beautiful as the Z32 or the Rx7. The Rx7 FD is hands down the most beautiful Japanese sports car ever. I feel if you like fuller body women then you would like the Rubenesque styling of the Supra. The front looks kind of generic and the rear has a fat ass look. I came close to owning a manual Supra Turbo 5 years ago with a low mileage white one for sale for $35k but passed because I don't like white sports cars. With the prices of pristine Supra's in the six figures I'm not willing to pay that much for a car I only so so liked.
I currently have my 7th Z and have had multiple Z32s over the years. My last one was a 90TT that was pretty highly modified and it was a blast. Will forever be one of my top 5 favorite cars ever made.
@@Alltracavenger i love mr2s and had 5 sw20s... recently got a stock fd rx7 and stock for stock it blows it out of the water imo. i have a red 94 sw20 turbo and drove the 93 fd right after it. If you are ok with maintaining a rotary i think the FD is the best 90s car from japan. And i have driven 3000gt, mr2, supra, nsx 300zx. NSX is really good too but not taking any reliability into consideration the drive of the FD is amazing. It lacks some in interior quality compared to other but it is pure driving bliss.
I've been waiting so patiently for this episode... I cannot wait to kick back and enjoy this in 4K!!! Just bought another of my own first enthusiast car, an '86 300ZX Turbo GLL 5-speed! Currently working on restoring it back to daily driver condition with my father.
This era of JDM was something special. The first 'sports' car I was exposed to as a kid was my father's VR4 and I myself ended up with two Z32s. Bias aside, I think the ZX is underrated and usually left out of the convo and its always the skyline, nsx, supra people talk about. The 300zx was ahead of its time and the styling still holds up today. Non z32 guys usually knock the VG, and yes it is a huge pain in the ass to work on and maintain but the reward is well worth it. All great and special cars regardless and very well done video!
Great video. Brings back some awesome memories. Drove all these cars back in the day. Ended up owning a 300GT VR4. Too bad you couldn't include the Mitsu into this, but they are also increasingly hard to find in near stock form.
I don't usually agree with Paul over Todd, but I'm 100% with him on this one. Part of me wants to buy an RX7, then go take a community college class or something and learn how to rebuild the rotary myself in the garage. That is such a lovely car both aesthetically and dynamically. Great video guys! I love when you do classics.
These guys know absolutely nothing about rotary engines. Don't let it scare you. My neighbor had 250,000mi on OEM build 12a. Lots of do and don't to make them last. Buy street rotary book. Do premix. Do not pull the eshaft bolt or your thrust bearing will drop into the front cover. Do start the car often. Do bypass the fuel pump or get a different ecu or rtek so you don't flood your spark plugs. The list goes on. They require knowledge and care.
I have had all 3 and currently own a Z32 300zxTT. Of all the presenters that have compared these legends, I believe that you guys told the honest truth about the feel and soul of each of them regardless of the final order. Thank you for keeping it real and there is one thing we can all agree on…you can’t go wrong with picking any of them to park in your garage
Yeah I had an SC300, and had to ditch the Chrome 90's wheels because the beed seal issues, kept leaking air no matter what I tried, so I went with some GS350 wheels, and with the added mass, I quickly figured out: Okay it's Supra brakes time!! Night/Day difference, and back then, wasn't an expensive upgrade, they bolt right in, obviously you get to "modify" the dust shields. Wish I woulda kept it!! even though it was the poor mans supra wannabe / slow car, the thing was SOLID.
@@KP-xi4bj it's made in Japan which is a plus, but Toyota's reliability is unrivaled and an extra gear isn't necessarily a good thing...more moving parts, we already know Nissan's CVT transmissions are the worst. Nissan has upped its game but we'll see how it plays out.
@@brentwendt2249 Sorry, but Toyota's "reliability" has been rivalled by Mazda, a smaller company. Check out the latest reliability report from Consumer Reports.
@@KP-xi4bj I see a thousand camrys and corollas from the 90s every single day, rarely do I see 90s Mazdas anymore and when I do they're in mint condition, so they're collectibles because they're that much rarer...a 3rd gen Camry will never be a collectible just a super reliable beater
I had 2 300zx. One 93 and the other a 96 both non turbo automatic 2+2. I loved them both until the end. The real big problem with both 300zx was not that they were under powered or heavy it was once you have a vacuum leak, it's a nightmare to find it. The best mod I did on both was getting the single driveshaft from z1. It made the car react and accelerate better. If i ever get the chanse to get one again I would not think twice
I cannot get over how beautiful the z32 is to this day. I remember being 9 years old, playing in my apartment balcony, and seeing a red z32 drive by for the first time. It was love at first sight.
I couldn't afford any of them 20 years ago because I was too young and just started working, and I can't afford them now because the prices are out of control. What a crap situation we're all in.
GREAT episode. When I think of JDM, my first thoughts are these 3 cars. I never understood why the 300zx is always left out when people post pictures JDMs. Anywho, I do feel that these 3 are the kings of the 90's JDM. One day I'll have these 3 along with NSX, Starion, MR2, and 3000gt.
In the US, the NXS was the most desirable among all the Japanese cars, and also the most expensive and exotic. The GTR and EVO and STi weren’t available in the US. Today, the most desirable Japanese sports car (even above NSX) is the legendary LFA. When will be the next one that’ll be higher than the LFA.
I'm only 30 but I've owned my 91 Twin Turbo Z for 10 years and it still puts a huge smile on my face every time I get behind the wheel and now my 10 year old daughter loves going for rides with me. It's nice to see it mentioned here with the others as the Z32 is often left out in conversations like this. Making 450whp with the NA diff makes for a tire roasting good time.
Back in the day when I bought my Z32 I could have chosen any of these 3 for the same price range, I chose the 300ZX and my only regret is not choosing the Supra so I could sell it now, buy the Z and keep the extra money 😄
This is the best car video of 2021. Thank you, thank you, thank you! You took me back to the 90s, and the 300ZX TT will also always be my favorite. It was my first car.
@@nkfgm What road is that exactly? I'm from Utah, born and raised but unfortunately I can't tell where they are. I agree, beautiful road and it would be a great drive.
This reminds me how lucky I am that I recently decided to keep and restore my '94 300ZX TT instead of selling it at some point in the last 10 or so years when I was too busy with life to make time for it. Never again.
"The RX-7 was the best car I drove, but I'm rating it last because of something that personally didn't happen during my review and is purely hearsay". They are nowhere near as fragile or require as much maintenance as people make it. The Renesis engine in the RX-8 was fragile and I feel the FD suffers some reputational damage as a result. RX-7s are very easy to work on with well-supported parts and maintenance. If you need to rebuild the engine, it's not the end of the world. Mazda is still making new blocks and they are comparatively inexpensive. Porsche's blow engines too, but compare how much they cost to replace than the RX7.
Honestly as a RX-8 owner, the renesis engine really suffers from hearsay and reputation. These rotaries are wear items ultimately, but 120-150k per engine isn't bad and totally doable if you don't crank the power up too much
@@PeterPangea yes i agree with you to a degree. Mazda definitely improved things with the series II, but the series 1 definitely was fragile in that the oiling and ignition system was not up to scratch and the engines died even when nothing actually went wrong, hence the drastic design change in series II. There are some inherent design flaws with the FD as well (namely the brittle AST, cooling off switch on temp is too high and on US models the dump pipe produces a lot of heat - noting that this was fixed on JDM models). These little things can be addressed with well-documented reliability mods. FWIW, I think that overall the RX8 is an even better chassis and drivers car than the FD.
As a current 300zx TT owner, all I can say is that every platform has its weak points. If you ever need to repair the Z for any major issues, good luck finding a competent mechanic who is willing to work on it. Some Z guys will attest, I do my own work but it absolutely is a tough engine bay to work around. And turbos are engine out service…which most mechanics won’t touch. So, yeah, I don’t think anyone can knock the rx7 necessarily either.
@@gregpieris4478 I’m also an RX-8 owner (2010 GT) and I’d say you hit the nail on the head here. As time goes on, all of these cars’ age will mean there are plenty of “needs” for maintenance, and Mileage driven gets fewer and more for pleasure, and concerns about economy and emissions (and even outright performance specs and speed) become irrelevant. And virtually NOTHING is as special as the RX chassis and dynamics, and the special and unique and endearing character of an eager, smooth, light and balanced engine and a car that just is happier the harder you drive it.
Thank you for this episode! I've been a fan of this 300ZX TT since its debut. And, yes, I agree with you on the RX-7's Wankel liability. I don't think I could fully enjoy the car not knowing if the little engine that could is going to chew itself up. For me the Supra Turbo has "become the institution" of 90's GT driving and is a bit overrated by the masses at this point. THAT is why the 300ZX TT does it for me, still, to this day. I feel that there's still an underappreciated stealth factor with it and there's room for the ceiling to rise on its value.
Completely agree with Todd the 300ZX is a blast to drive. I bought a brand new 1990 twin turbo and it was the best car I've had and I owned a corvette and I would pick the Nissan all over again. I had so much fun in that car
That 300zx commercial with Ken, Barbie and GI Joe is still to this day, one of the best car commercials I've ever seen . (Clive Owen & Madonna M5 commercial takes the cake for me)
All 3 cars are great even in OEM form. None of them are bad. I own a 93 rx7 since 1998. By no means is the rotary that fragile. I have never been worried about the engine blowing while driving. Add premix to the gas and keep it well maintained and it will be no less fragile than the others. Many owners just dont keep up with them or add mods without proper tuning. The video quality was great and everything said about the rx7 is true except I disagree with the statement of it being fragile. Mazda recommends to red line the rx7 every once in a while to keep carbon build up out of the engine. I follow Mazda recommendations and never am I scared to red line the engine.
This! I hate the fact that that car (but also other Mazdas) are seen as these fragile little things. Sure you have to keep an eye on them more, but they are by no means, machines that'll just blow up cause you drove it too hard. I'm so sick of reviewers brining that up as a reason to not own one. Same for the RX8 ... hurrr durrr, it's a rotary so look out. How about owners just rtfm.
I’ve had many rotary engines. And he’s right. They actually stay running good if you push them. It helps keep the carbon from building up on the apex seals as a result keeps the compression numbers up. Baby a rotary and it will eventually lose all compression.
I've owned four RX-7s and will surely own another soon. The FD3S is my favorite because of the uniqueness of the rotary engines, the exquisite body design and the incredible, raw sports car driving experience. RX-7s have always given me the same feeling that Porsches do. That's a very good thing.
I've always said that the 90's sports cars were the pinnacle of driving due to usability, minimal if no driver aids, great designs and reliability. They make you smile and remember when driving was actually fun
This was a time 2 remember! Such beautiful cars! Each of them is so iconic in their own way I don't know which 1 I like the best cuz I love them all so much 😂
I realize you are referring to a different variation but I’ve owned an ‘87 300ZX turbo since new. Fully loaded which means all 3 packages available ( electronic , leather , turbo ). It’s a 5 speed manual and hot red with T tops and virtually every time I take it for a drive people comment on it , ask about it or offer to buy it ! It runs extremely strong and will be with me forever. Thanks for the fun video.
Fully agree with the 300ZX over the Supra. The Z32 came out in 1989, and was so good that Toyota had to delay the launch of the MK4 Supra until 1993 just so it could even come close to measuring up. Funnily enough the original hero car of choice for the Fast And The Furious was the 300ZX. The only reason they changed their mind and went with the Supra was because of the roof, so they could do that scene where they punch the roof out. And now they're worth four times as much as they should be. Can't complain too much though, it meant I could afford my own 300ZX TT. :-)
@@LoopsRonin I'd always heard the roof decision was between 300ZX and the Supra, see where he's talking about the 300ZX roof 8 minutes in, so I wasn't exactly wrong. Just didn't know they were also thinking of a 3000GT too at one point, can't say I'm that big a fan of the films to have bothered finding out earlier. I know which I'd rather have anyway, no need to be a cock about it. 👍
The first choice was actually the Mitsubishi 3000GT VR4, it's even in the deleted scenes. Not to mention when the VR4 got 320hp/315tq in 1994 it spanked the 300ZXTT in every test they were in as far as acceleration. In fact by 1994 the Z was the slowest of the group - the 1996 MW test was a send off for the Z as all 1996 TT models had 280hp instead of the full 300 because Nissan removed valve timing. MW tested a 1994 VR4 and got 60 in 4.9 and the 1/4m in 13.5@103 beating the 1996 Zs time. In Japan the GTO MR was beating the R32 and R33 Skyline GTR, both of which literally make the 300ZX TT seem SLOW.
Great review! My friends and I had these three in period. I had the 300Z in charcoal with t-tops. It was my choice then and would be still today. People will disagree, but it simply has the best driving position and presence. The Z turns heads if you're a car person or not and the Supra is just another Toyota for non car people.
I personally imported my '91 ZX 21 years ago and still have it! I sold my skyline years ago and now regret it! The ZX is so much better than Skyline in many ways , I will keep it as long as possible! Awesome vid! Bring back production of these cars!
Great video. I owned a 91 300zx TT for about 5 years, current own a Nismo Z34. Nice seeing these cars being compared again. Kind of missed the 3000GT Vr4 though
Really enjoyed the review, save for my ego that the Supra didnt come in first! I wish you guys had driven one with the sequential not parallel. Better powerband; parallel is all the lag of a single and none of the power. My Supra is similar to the one reviewed and it is a perfect canyon carving machine. The FD might be the most beautiful car Japan ever made. Z32 is quickly finding a deserved place with the rest of these, finally getting out of the skyline shadow.
Haha yea, but in parallel it removes that annoying power dip from the turbo switch at around 4k. I never liked that and is off putting, especially in turns. (Though it's a lot more of an issue when BPU). Also, I've seen dynos where you do get 5-10whp more on top end in parallel, albeit at the expense of low end torque. Personally, I don't notice the loss much even around town. Lastly it does help preserve the second turbo.
classic everyday driver, amazing cars, interesting exposés. I love these vids, been watching since the 2007 cayman s review in 2012 I wound up with a mazdaspeed 3 because i couldn't afford it the time but i really wanted it.
FWIW, you would find the driver's accommodations better in a LHD RX-7 - the cabin floor and firewall on the RH side (in both LHD and RHD cars) has a substantially less deep foot well, and a double-wall spacing both up and back, to clear the exhaust, and keep the heat of the turbos and cats from penetrating the cabin. My 6'3" fits easily in the driver's seat of my FC, even with an SA helmet - and when I sit on the right in my own car, I'm always surprised at how much less room I have in the right seat. This has been true when I've been in FDs too.
so true, but also for another reason. LHD cars (designed for europe and US) had a longer seat rail, which means they could slide further back and (if i remember correctly, since its been a long time) a lower seating position. all done to accomodate for the taller drivers compared to japans domestic market.
Great video! Definitely nostalgic if you're over 50 years old! These were Asian sensations, as I had 85 Mazda gsl-se and 88 300zx...great cars! Thanks for the memories!! Another interesting video of that time would be Buick Grand National, Monte Carlo SS and the Hurst Olds 442...
I bought a 93 FD new and owned it for eight years. I did a lot of track days with that car and even took it down to Peter Farrells shop in VA for suspension and engine modifications. If you don't push the boost it is not nearly as unreliable as was made out to be in this video, and a near stock example can be reliable. I beat the snot out of mine for years with countless track days and put over 60K miles on it with virtually no issues. I also had friends that owned the Supra and the 300Z, we would frequently do track days together and swap cars, so I know what all three are like with proper track modifications. For pure driving experience the other two don't come close. The RX7 is like an extension of you, like you are wearing it, the other two I liken to driving a tank. However, with modifications and big sticky tires they can definitely move on a road course. I was loving life with the RX7, going to track days trouble free, but then I got the itch for more power and went to a big single turbo trying to make it the ultimate power house. At first even that worked well, but I kept pushing, I had it in my head that I wanted reliable 400 WHP out of it, because then I would be happy. That is when I first got my engine hoist and got really good at removing and installing the engine, I could do it in about two hours. We tried every type of apex seal, 3 mm, ceramic, unobtanium... After about 8 or 9 engine rebuilds I gave up and sold it after popping the engine twice in one month. But if I could have just been happy with around 350 WHP (which is plenty on a 2800 lb car) all those engine failures would not of happened. Sure those engines wont last over a 100K, but here is the thing most people forget, there is hardly nothing to those engines, no heads, no valves, all you have are the housings, two rotors, the crank, and seals, and when they let go a large percentage of the parts are reusable. Doing the work myself each rebuild typically cost me around $1000, heck back then you could get a complete rebuilt engine from Mazda for around $2500. I just had a look, it appears you can still get a factory rebuilt short block for around $5K, which means you can rebuild them for a lot less. Don't get me wrong, this car is more work than some of the others, and a lot more than anything new, but stock or lightly modified they aren't nearly as fragile as many would have you believe. But if you want to own one, it is a good idea to be the sort that is capable and likes wrenching on cars, or can afford to pay someone else to do it. But this is true with any performance car you are racing and modifying. I miss that car, but would I want one now? No, but that is true of any 25 -30+ year old car, I don't care how reliable you think it is, as they age, they all start falling apart. I have a couple friends with Mark 4 Supra's that they driver only on occasions, and they are constantly have issues with one thing or another. The RX7 is special, and is by far one of the best looking cars to ever come out of Japan, but there are just to many new cars that (stock) are far superior in so many ways, and have a warranty. if I had a collection sure, but as a second or third car that I would want to use on a regular basis, they are just way to big of a hassle. I would much rather spend the money on a much newer used C8, once the novelty wears off and they start getting more inventory so you can get one for well below MSRP. For $60K I would take a slightly used C8 over an old MK4 Supra any day of the week.
Why were your engines popping? My FD sits at about 400 whp, just on 93 pump gas and no AI. A single turbo setup tuned to 15-16 psi is not any less reliable as far as, will it run fine and not randomly explode. Less overall longevity maybe, as in rebuilding every 60k instead of 100k... Friction wear is wear after all. but if you have the proper supporting mods, you should definitely not be "popping" 400 whp 13B REW's twice a month. That's absurd. Bad tune or bad build. I'm on year 4 of my current rebuild, no issues. Plenty of owners out there like me.
@@rotaryenforcer Well, before you start mouthing off about a situation you know nothing about, consider this was 25 years ago, the experience and technology we have now did not exist back then. No one could hack the factory ECU at that time, all we had was crappy piggy back systems that provided very limited control over fuel and timing, even boost control was more like a vague suggestion. I eventually went to a full replacement engine management system (Haltech) but this was back when all that stuff was just beginning to be used in "street cars" and there were no established maps for this car. I also learned years later that there were some issues with the early wire harness causing noise on the timing signal so... These are all things that have been discovered over time and through experience, which people like you now benefit from years later. I made 400 WHP but I was all about road racing, I even had a membership at one of the very first road course country clubs, so when I say this car was driven hard... What I found is that more power with a big laggy turbo actually increased my lap times. More peak power is not always a good thing, so I switched to the smallest turbo I could find that should be able to make around 450 HP. All of these things from control systems to turbo technology have vastly improved in the last twenty plus years. Also I was driving this car all the time and road racing it every other week. So the idea that it is now possible to get 400 WHP with some degree of reliability is not so surprising or impressive, especially if all you do is drive it on the street. Having said all that we all see people modifying cars and popping motors all the time, and that is true for any type of engine or manufacturer. When you essentially double the power output, your reliability is going down, and as you get closer to the edge it doesn't take much, one tank of bad gas, a faulty sensor, a loose connection... My point in sharing my experience was to counter Paul's idiotic irrational fear being expressed on this show. He was driving a mint condition, low mileage stock car, and pretending it could blow up at any moment, that is absurd. I have never seen or heard of a stock or near stock car popping a motor. They may not last as long as most piston engines, but they are also a lot cheaper and easier to rebuild. Given the prices these days, unless you have some nostalgia for these old cars, none of them make sense to own and operate. Back in the day if you wanted an 11, 12, or even a 13 second car you had no choice but to buy something with potential and modify it. Now you get family sedans off the show room floor that will do 12 and even 11 second 1/4 mile and pull over a G around corners. Paying these ridiculous prices for some old worn out sports car makes no sense for cost or performance. They are really only good if you can get one cheap and convert it to a full race car, or keep it close to stock for Sunday drives and show off at cars and coffee. Anyone that claims you can get one of these old beat on cars (and trust me they have all been beat on), modify them, race them, and use them daily trouble free, is either lying, or they have been extremely fortunate. Cars do not last, not unless you barely use them, or you spend a lot of time and money constantly restoring them.
I loved my Z32-TT. But I also love working on cars with simple tools in my garage. Sold it for a 240Z and am much happier. I want to be able to lash my valves and adjust my points. The Z32 engine bay is just a nightmare. But the cockpit design of the interior was great. Everything was right where it should be and in easy reach.
I can't believe they said these were the most desirable Japanese cars of the 90s and didn't include the NSX. Just looked up price of first gen NSX... its right along the same price as a MK IV Supra turbo, starting at $60k
That’s partly because the NSX did not sell as well as the others so they are more rare. It’s super desirable now but in the 90s I think it confused people because it seemed underpowered for the price.
great episode you guys kill it keep them coming thank you! Three beauties that just keep getting better with age. Still remember falling in love with these on PlayStation and fast and furious. The more I learn about them and fall in love with the JDM Legends, the more I love having bought a C4 and C5 for a combined $15,000 and daily/tracking/drifting/roadtripping them constantly. Especially The handful of times when I actually needed a part and it turned out to be $20 and in stock at the corner napa 👍👍👍😁
You guys are way too hyperbolic and paranoid about rotary engines. I’ve had every generation of RX7 and had no issues. The last one, the engine went at 220,000 km. A rebuild or new engine was around 4K at the time. You can get a bill like that on a Mercedes’ or BMW with that mileage, because I have. Other than that another great review, as usual!
I agree with you, but that's pretty much how the internet is when it's anything rotary. Eh, it is what it is and it's still my favorite engine design of all time. Fun video and nice to take a walk down memory lane again. The conclusion threw me for a loop because I just KNEW that Paul would put the 7 last...and wow was I wrong, I figured Todd would go the other way despite the potential possibility maybe possibly of an engine failure, but again I was wrong haha.
Yep currently own an fd and these guys are exaggerating, but I guess when they haven’t experienced ownership they just go off what the internet says. I think of a rebuild as a part of maintenance.
@@zaneelzein4454 you're on the internet and just proved their point with your comment. Most people don't consider rebuilds as regular maintenance, nor do they want to. The fact you do justifies the internet's accurate view of those things. Honestly, it's hilarious to read the apologists for RX-7s. Practically anyone who claims they're actually reliable has a 12 step program that no other car needs to run in order to be "reliable," which means all things being equal, they're not.
First time stumbling across an EverydayDriver video... fantastic work, gentlemen! 90's Japanese sportscars are simply the best driving (and styling) experience. It's mind blowing to think that these cars are 30 year old designs. Think of driving a 50's car in the 80's, or a 60's car in the 90's for contrast. As a 90's Toyota MR2 owner, the "new generation" pain of these "modern classic" cars crossing the 30 year mark isn't the mechanical reliability, but the electronic systems (such as capacitors going bad, leaking and destroying traces on circuit boards). Without question, they are well worth every effort to keep them all running and enjoy cruising twisty roads for years to come.
6 years ago this video would not have been made. I remember in very recent history always being hated on for loving the Z32, with people always saying that it was fat slow and ugly, not a sports car but a "G.T." until one day it blew up on the internet and went from being a 4K all day to over 10k no matter what on the market place. it's ridiculous, I wish I didn't listen to everyone and bought it before it became an unobtainable internet car, and got eaten up by the cutler vaulters. At least people finally appreciate it. Great vid by the way.
I was the owner of a 1992 Z32, it was my first Japanese car, my first sports car, first "tuner" car, and honestly my first real love. It taught my heartache, passion, dedication and caring. She was finicky, but responded to being cared about. Hugged corners on rails even though she felt a bit heavy. The seemingly never ending power and torque pulling from any RPM, and gear. I miss that car dearly, owning a 91 S13 Silvia now, because I wanted something more reliable. (Jokes on me) I want another one, but they are so outragedly far outside of my price range now though. So it will be something for a much more future self. But Nissan forever in my heart because of the 90s S/Z/R
Very good episode, and I can appreciate the logic behind both the driving and the final choices. I haven't driven any of these, though I have sat in an FD and have had a couple hundred miles behind an A70 Supra so it's hard for me to make a direct comparison. However, out of the '90s Japanese sports cars I've experienced my personal favorite and the one I went for is the SW20 MR2 Turbo. I feel it fits me better than the FD ergonomically(which I felt was the gold standared before I drove the MR2), and I like a smaller, more nimble car than the Supra. It's slightly lighter than the FD and is even marginally quicker than the stock Supra. The seats are pretty comfortable. It's a mid-engined car with a usable trunk; I managed a long weekend trip with a passenger with no real issues. Visibility is excellent, and the handling is absolutely amazing. It's not a beginner's car for sure, but out of the pantheon of wonderful golden era Japanese rockets, the MR2 is my top pick.
They don’t get the love these three plus NSX get. I think mainly due to transverse front drive based awd system. But I think VR4 was amazing with the active aeros and tech way ahead of the times. The platform just doesn’t have the enthusiast following of the supras or rx7. Frankly, NSX should be up there instead but I’m sure Todd’s 300zx was an easy choice to round up.
@@phattyhales makes perfect sense. It’s funny that on every UA-cam video titled 90s Japanese legend, every other comment is about the missing ones. It’s not like you can gather all of them together in near stock form! That would be something to see though if you can get a Z, RX7, VR4, NSX, Supra, MR2, GTR and I’m sure someone will come up with another I’m forgetting. Lol.
@@bjj5746 No kidding! We had a VERY hard time finding a near stock Supra, let alone a stock one. I can't imagine what trying finding a VR4 would be like. We did have a NSX and R33 offered to us though but didn't fit our criteria. The NSX is really in a different class entirely anyway.
I owned both the RX7 (an R1 version), and a 300ZX TT, and importantly to me, did track days/autocrossed both, along with long road drives. I thought I wanted the Supra until I drove one and found it was just too large, heavy and soft in comparison. I love Toyota products overall, and this was great grand touring or street car only, but just not very athletic. In comparison the the RX7 R1 was a GREAT car on a track, autox or smooth mountain road, but the R1's ride was pretty damn hard. The ZX fell in between, with a nice ride and great power, but heavy feeling and the HICAS 4WS system made it understeer heavily when pushed hard. The RX7 still looks great to this day IMO, and the 300ZX has aged well too, where I think the Supra looks a little strange now. All great cars with their own set of pluses and minuses. My favorite is/was easily the RX7 though!
These three were my poster cars during my senior year of high school. Truly my holy trinity. They were completely mind-blowing to me back then, and I still love them today. Well done, fellas!!!
It would have been interesting to see how the 3000GT stacked up. The NSX is in a different class IMO. I wanted a 300ZX SO bad back in the day! Still kind of do. 😁 Great video
I love all three of these cars, hell I own a 300ZX, and love the hell out of it. That being said, i have been in a FD RX-7 and love the looks, but the 300ZX is a much better highway car. Now for the Supra, its a great car, but i feel like its over rated by a lot, because of the movies that shall not be named. also, bold move choosing the 300zx over the Supra, you will get a lot of hate for it, but I feel like it was the right choice.
Yeah I agree the Supra is definitely overrated. I’ve been in an Rx7 also and it’s a blast, also agree that the rx7 isn’t the best in highways, never been in a 300zx though sounds fun.
300zxTT was on Car and Driver’s Top 10 list every single year of production. The FD3S won the best handling sports car competition. The Supra never won shit except the “I’m heaviest” award. I laugh when people mention the VR4, because car mags routinely ranked them dead last. The 300ZXTT, FD3S and NSX are the ones to have.
So I'm the owner of the Supra in this video. I presented that same idea, an FC, Z31, and a MA70 Supra. My brother has an 87 turbo Supra that's 60k miles and it's stock so i know he would be up for it is Paul/Todd wanted to do this.
They're all great cars, but the 300ZX is on another level of design. It looks so iconic and timeless. Swap out just the wheels or just the 90s style dashboard instruments and it feels modern, or even futuristic still. I made it my life dream to buy one and I'm so glad I finally did.
Great video. I truly enjoyed it. I am a former owner of a Stealth R/T twin turbo that I chose over a 300zx TT. It was a choice I made based on the quality of the two examples I was choosing between. This video had me picking up my phone and looking at prices for a 300zx TT. Thanks
Its interesting the 300ZX was so obviously designed for the American market, it was really criticized elsewhere for its weight - and later for reliability. It always had more love in America than Europe or Japan.
As a former FD RX7, everything they said was true. The car was so great to drive the rotary was reliable when it worked! But it was a really fragile car, things were so easy to break on it and it kept you paranoid! I took it to a track day once and it overheated and blew a heater hose on the 1st session! So the rest of the day me and my fiancé shared her NA8 Miata the rest of the day 😂 bottom line is, it’s a fantastic car, own and drive one! But be prepared to spend thousands of dollars on maintenance! It’s just the age that comes with these cars.
300ZX TT for the win. I read somewhere that it was actually the 300ZX that was supposed to be the hero car in F&F but they needed the whole roof to come off for that one scene so that's why they chose the Supra instead. The original real story that F&F was based on was with a 300ZX TT. But im glad they didn't choose the 300ZX because now you can own one that is cheaper and better than the Supra, and IMO cleaner lines than the Supra. The Supra is no slouch just way overhyped. The RX7 just looks gorgeous. Close second to the Z. But the Z has that timless beauty only a few car designs can claim.
I remember walking on a Toyota dealer lot back in 1998 (I was 20). They had two Supra's left. One TT and one NA. I remember thinking how sad it was that they never sold well and now they are going away. The Mk4 was really a head turner. I would of bought one that day if I had the means!
At 53 years old, I enjoyed this episode more than all the others.... (and I watched them all). These were 3 of THE sports cars of my generation. Well done, gentlemen!!
The 300ZX Twin Turbo still holds 1st place in my heart.
I’m only 36 and I was a massive 300zx fan in the 90s. Couldn’t drive yet, let alone afford one, but they were important to my love of cars.
That and a GTS Viper.
@@kc510 yes! Those two cars of all 90’s cars stand out to me the most.
@@kc510 I know exactly how you feel. That's how I felt when I saw the 1978 280ZX @ ten years old. Couldn't drive yet - but always loved the "Z" ever since.
1998 Supra turbo is my dream car
I remember when supras weren’t even loved that much and nobody wanted the 300zx everyone always loved the gtrs,rx7s and evos I’m in Australia though so different scene
300zx for me is still one of the best looking cars out there. Such a classic!
I think it looks like a soap box but I've always thought it was the coolest not as much talked about option.
It has the perfect proportions and that sleek nose and side profile.
@@Emppu_T. The Koniseg cars look like molten blocks of soap to me.
Agreed as well as the 240z and Celica 5 and 6 and Mitsubishi 3000gt and Jaguar e type and Ferrari 250gto and Jaguar mk2 and others I forget…
Preach the truth
Crazy to think the z32 came out in 1989!!! So ahead of it’s time. Styling still holds up, it’s my favorite of the three
Had a 90 twin, by far the best car I ever owned, especially the rear wheel steer,loved bending it into corners so surgical! Did everything incredibly! Miss it to this day!
Yep the Supra had the best engine, the RX-7 had the best handling, but the 300ZXTT was the best all round tourer in stock form and best looking among the three.
I always felt the 300zx had a 80's look to it, didnt realize it was released in japan in 89'& the states in 90'.
@@anydaynow01i understand looks are subjective but I’m sorry the rx7 is objectively the best looking and widely regarded as one of the most timeless designs EVER let alone of the 90s jdm cars
@@anydaynow01 I love the Z32, but the FD RX-7 is among one of the most beautiful cars of all time.
The RX-7 is timeless (well, except for the pop up headlights). Honestly, it looks so much better than most of todays sports cars. I get 997 987 vibes. Cars with a smooth pebble shape and no fake vents look good forever.
There's nothing quite like an FD RX-7 or Nissan Skyline on a quiet back road. Just the best! Loved the video and the 4:3 crop.. giving me all the right feelings haha.
S2000
Lotus Elise or Exige
came from the rx7 sad face no skyline
mitsubishi 3000gt?
Love your vids man.
The Z32 completely changed the game when it debuted. Gorgeous styling to this day!
Far better than the Z31
Sorry, the Z32 got nothing on the Z34 with its fangs.
I would love to see the z32 with pop up headlights!
I remember a quote from Jeremy Clarkson it looks like a pornographers car lol.
I dig it. All three seem to have a driver focused interior.
I would still like a third gen RX-7. One day it will be mine…it will be mine.
@@KP-xi4bj the Z34 isn’t nearly as timeless. It’s already looking past it’s prime.
I'm the owner of the Supra in this episode and I got the opportunity to watch Paul and Todd film this episode in person. Truly an amazing experience. Todd even let me drive his 300ZX!
What did you think about it?
@@Nash_Nismo Man, i have so much to say about the episode. I thought it was all really incredible. I got to drive the Z (Todd's car) and while i couldn't drive this Mazda (owner wasn't there at the shoot for permission) I have a buddy with a LHD FD and have driven it. I did ride in this FD with Paul, it actually started to get hot while going up and down the highway. I'm obviously biased with the Supra but I can respect their decisions for which cars they picked 1, 2, 3. Paul's choice for the FD being 1st makes complete sense, he's a big Porsche guy and the Mazda is closest to the feeling of a Porsche. Todd's first love was the Z so when I watched them shoot their conclusions at the end of the episode, it came to no surprise he chose the Z. Really, i don't think you can go wrong with any of these cars. If i didn't own a Supra and had to choose between the Mazda or the Z, i would pick the Z. It is really amazing how similar it drives like my car and I own a 240sx also, so i have a special place in my heart for Nissan too.
Nice ! What a cool experience. Your Supra is a beauty….
@@chop2093 thank you!
@@jza80king where you guys filmed this episode? such perfect roads, i would go for a drive there easily with my 300zx
The Z32 300ZX (to me) is still the most beautiful car of the group, inside and out, and isn't emotion all part of the lure of owning and driving a sportscar? They're all outstanding but, I've always been a fan and I put my money where my mouth is as I owned a 93 300Zx (Sapphire Blue Metallic 5-sp) for 6 years, loved it, it was awesome!
If you had actually “put your money where your mouth is” you’d have bought a grille, like Paul Wall.
Sapphire blue here as well 😁
1992 Black on black 2+2 here. 400hp. Proud current caretaker...
@@900108Chale congrats!
how does the TT compare with the non-turbo 300ZX?
I've owned all three of those cars at different times. Bought the Supra new, the 300ZX and Rx7 with low miles and only a couple years old. The Nissan and Mazda were very prone to snap oversteer while the Toyota was so planted and easy to drive fast. I loved all three vehicles. I wish I had all three in my garage today. All three are absolutely beautiful to look at and drive.
Outside of old Motorweek reviews perhaps, I think this is the first video I've watched where I've seen such an open and honest discussion and comparison between these three cars, and why we as enthusiasts think so highly of them. I don't think I could've picked anyone better to make it happen either. I appreciate you both for taking the time and putting forth the effort to bring as-close-to-stock examples of these cars together in one place, as well as the owners who were kind enough to contribute. Bravo!
Glad you enjoyed it so much. Thank you for watching!
It’s funny how Todd rated these beautiful machines…I was car shopping back in 96 and had the chance to test drive one of the last of the Nissan Z32 two seater. I remember clearly that it was pearl white with black interior then went to test drive the Supra… it was black on beige interior. Till today I remember those two cars so well and enjoyed them but I thought the 300zx was the better more connected choice. I loved it so much and I still think it is one of all time best sport cars and it would still look at home if it rolled out of the factory today.
If only I had a time machine
As someone that owns an FD, I get a little bored of hearing the same things over and over. Its become a bit of a meme, its nowhere near as fragile as people make out and automotive journalists regurgitating the same overexaggerated phrases don't help.
However with that to one side, this was a really enjoyable video to watch. With as always fantastic production value. Nice job guys!
I've owned two RX-7s. Rotary engines are reliable... until they're not.
@@AlbertNurick isn't that everything?
The reliability song and dance made me step away from the video. Any FD content that goes into that.
I like old magazine reviews of when they were cheaper that talk about dynamics alone and how exhilarating it is.
WE GET IT, IT'S TEMPERAMENTAL
But everyone fails to mention that blown a rotary engine will still run. It's one of the few that can actually do that.
I have a 94FD stock with 60k on the clock, it’s been real reliable for me and mine is bone stock.
They are a bit more sensitive to proper maintenance... but if you maintain them right, reliability is not an issue. The problem is that most people treated their rotary engine like a piston engine
Great comparison. All these cars are legendary. Love the 300zx twinturbo. Owned mine for over 20yrs.
I also have the Z32TT 2+2, IMO when these came out, everyone went back to the drawing board!
@@Geromino555 exactly🤙🏼
Still have our 1990 since delivery... Still wondering what tires they were running since you can't find performance tires for the 16-inch wheels anymore.
@@MightyAA251 TOYO PROXES T1R 245/45/16 is what I'm using here in AU however, we are slowly getting pushed to aftermarket wheel options because these tyres are very expensive and not sure if they are even available anymore. I really do like the STD wheels, the rear 8.5" fit perfectly and they scream Z32.
@@Geromino555 yep... I run winter tires on my stock wheels, and aftermarket for fair weather. It's not bad on snow with the right tires :P
What a well done video! I think your prices for those cars in near stock form are less than half of what you would actually pay. If you can find me nearly stock fds for 22+, and rz supras for 35+ I'll take them all :). I have a 100% stock fd type RZ rx7 with 35k miles, and a stock r32 skyline gtr with 24k miles. If you are ever in the PWN and would like to use them for a video I would be so happy to let you drive them!
Where is the great PWM?
No one knows what PWN means.
Probably a typo for PNW (Pacific Northwest)
The video is old is why the price
@@Pokebattleleague The video is only 5 days old. Lol
I grew up in the 90s so this video brings back a lot of memories. I remember as a kid, I saw a red 300ZX TT taking a quick u-turn & speeding off and it was the first car I fell in love with. Also recall going to a Toyota Dealership with my parents and enamored by the brand new white Supra on the floor room. In fact, I recall my mom making a comment on it's beauty. I finally have the money to buy one of these, but it is impossible to find stock. My search will continue. One of these day I will get one and die a happy man.
Any luck yet?
I bought a 1990 300ZX Twin Turbo new. Still the best car that I've ever owned. Nissan hit a home run with this car; the later 350Z and 370Z just didn't measure up.
I have a 2008 350Z Nismo and it’s a special car, but the 300ZX definitely has a cool factor about it that’s undeniable.
Couldn't agree more. Nissan went backwards with the 350 and 370 Z's.
The 350Z and the 370Z would have been more exciting if they turbocharged. And still kept the T-tops
370 is excellent I drive one everyday but youre right, it doesnt have the same feel the Turbo 300ZX did. The looks are there, the performance is there but its just seems to be lacking compared to the 300ZX
The only motor better 3.8 twin turbo
I own a 1990 300zx, and its my first car and im only 19! Fell in love with it seeing it as a toy on my fathers shelf of cars and i finally got one.
Noice
-Tou
Lol
I bought my 1990 300zx 2 years ago when I was also 19. While it is a headache to work on it at times, I fall in love with it every time I see it.
What a great review. In the early nineties I test drove all these cars brand new, and just went crazy over the RX7 in Montego Blue. I still fantasize about it. The jolt you would get when the small turbo would hand it off to the second turbo was intoxicating. It was the perfect car in size and looks.The hum of the engine, the snicking snick of the shifter. Look at it now, it’s timeless in design. It’s beautiful, it’s sensual. It makes me wonder if Mazda could build this engine now without regard to emissions, could it make it reliable? Sadly I settled on a new Corvette, they made me a better offer on price. This Mazda was my true love.
It's not the reliability, it's the maintenance and heat management they'd have to work around
I couldn't agree more. I ended up owning a Montego blue Touring Package for about 15 years.
Well the thing is , the rotary 13b engine was a pretty reliable engine, the problem where owner's who didnt know enough about these kind of engines, so ended up waiting to long to do certain maintenance and preventive care, it needs more and specialised maintenance at lower mile intervals than a normal piston car.
Also small things like letting it heat up a little before driving , dont drive it just 1-2 miles and then turn it off again, run it to redline minimaly once per drive , if you end your drive , let it sit in neutral for 20 seconds before turning the ignition off, only use the very best oil... all these kind of little things have to be taken into account owning a 13b engine... if you are reminded of all those things, you'll have a pretty reliable rotary 🙂
Greetz
I was just starting high school and we had my dads mazda truck at the dealership for some reason.... they had a blue RX7 indoors, and yeah... went n sat in it, thing fit like a glove. I only imagine a 911 gt3 as fitting the same/better...
It doesn't hand off anything to the larger turbo. They work together when the biasing valve is open.
These 3 cars were my youth. The Z32 became the first sports car of my generation that I lusted after. I just bought a 91' TT and finally felt all the reasons I loved this car as a kid.
How do you like the TT?
@inhim05 i really enjoy it. It's still very fun to drive, even if it's not that fast by today's standards. It's smoother than I thought for all stock and the power is still good at 300hp. It is a pain to work on with the tight engine bay, so having a trusted mechanic is important. Other than that I love it.
@@laydbackrat81 Good to hear! Thank you for the reply 👍
@@inhim05 thinking about getting one?
The z32 is a JDM icon, super slept on just because it wasn’t some hero car…. Toyota had to rework the Supra from the ground up when Nissan released the z32 and for very good reason. It’s such a great car. My list goes Z32, Rx7, Supra
Yep same here. In a way I'm glad the Z32 TT wasn't the movie star, it's still attainable to me now, I'm actually shopping for a clean one now. The first thing I'm going to do is change out the subframe and tension rod bushings for Nismo units. In my old one they made all the difference to tighten up the turn in and mid corner rear stability.
Finally it is up! Enjoyed watching this on Amazon Prime. I love how giddy Paul was driving the FD, have never seen him quite so emotional about a car before. "I think this is one of the benchmarks for sports cars of all time." High praise indeed.
Z32 TT 6MT blew my mind the first time I saw it at age 12 - it looked like a spaceship from the future compared to everything else. It was the first fast car I ever owned, and the first car I sadly crashed - I still mourn it to this day, I've tried to like the newer Z models but their interiors just don't do it for me. RX7 is possibly the most beautiful Japanese car ever made - such great lines, It's just so beautiful and the engine makes it completely exotic. Supras somehow just never pulled me in as much as the other 2, and for 20 years since FF I've thought I was the only one and must be crazy. Thank you for letting me know I'm not alone!
The Z32 is one of those cars that I’ve loved since I was 5. However it never had a 6 speed, it was always a 5speed manual.
@@ARehman11194 bahaha yes you got me there! 😂
I feel exactly the same about the Supra. I was a huge fan of the MKII as it was the status car to own in it's time where I grew up (Upper West Side NYC). The MKII was a let down, and by the time the MKIV came out i had pretty much forgotten about the Supra marque.
I'm partial to Mazda RX7's as the 82' RX7 was my 1st car (l now own all 3 generations).
But Nissan X line was always a contender in my book, l just never went in the direction.
I would agree. Seeing the RX-7 for the first time in person in 1993 casually parked at a mall parking lot in candy red, it looked as good as any Ferrari.
I feel exactly as you do about the Supra. It has smooth and swoopy styling but its not as sleek nor as beautiful as the Z32 or the Rx7. The Rx7 FD is hands down the most beautiful Japanese sports car ever. I feel if you like fuller body women then you would like the Rubenesque styling of the Supra. The front looks kind of generic and the rear has a fat ass look. I came close to owning a manual Supra Turbo 5 years ago with a low mileage white one for sale for $35k but passed because I don't like white sports cars. With the prices of pristine Supra's in the six figures I'm not willing to pay that much for a car I only so so liked.
These 3 cars are absolute legends. I’d love to have either on my driveway
I currently have my 7th Z and have had multiple Z32s over the years. My last one was a 90TT that was pretty highly modified and it was a blast. Will forever be one of my top 5 favorite cars ever made.
Great show! This pares nicely with what the car rags of that era described. The 300ZX was frequently the overall winner in these comparisons.
You have chosen correctly and the 300zx twin turbo is what got me interested in cars I love it
Definitely need an episode featuring the others! MR2’s, NSX, Skylines, 3000gt etc
Agreed. As an MR2 owner, I'm curious to see what their take would be on what I consider to be my gold standard.
@@Alltracavenger i love mr2s and had 5 sw20s... recently got a stock fd rx7 and stock for stock it blows it out of the water imo. i have a red 94 sw20 turbo and drove the 93 fd right after it. If you are ok with maintaining a rotary i think the FD is the best 90s car from japan. And i have driven 3000gt, mr2, supra, nsx 300zx. NSX is really good too but not taking any reliability into consideration the drive of the FD is amazing. It lacks some in interior quality compared to other but it is pure driving bliss.
@@Alltracavenger yes sir!
👑 MR2 & 3000GT VR4 👑
@@Alltracavenger I agree with you,,BUT my gold standard would be mine,,an "89 Supercharged MR2! lol
I've been waiting so patiently for this episode... I cannot wait to kick back and enjoy this in 4K!!! Just bought another of my own first enthusiast car, an '86 300ZX Turbo GLL 5-speed! Currently working on restoring it back to daily driver condition with my father.
That's a great project to work on. Spend as much time together as you can, you won't regret it.
@@RByrne, certainly! One of the reasons I started my own channel was to be able to save these moments for later in life/my children, etc...
Nice. I got an 85 300ZX NA. I’m trying to get it running smoothly but every time I fix one thing something else breaks.
That car value just jumped crazy! Awesome car ❤️
@@chiefalex9055, have you checked the idle air control valve and mass airflow sensors yet? They can cause some weird running issues.
This era of JDM was something special. The first 'sports' car I was exposed to as a kid was my father's VR4 and I myself ended up with two Z32s. Bias aside, I think the ZX is underrated and usually left out of the convo and its always the skyline, nsx, supra people talk about. The 300zx was ahead of its time and the styling still holds up today. Non z32 guys usually knock the VG, and yes it is a huge pain in the ass to work on and maintain but the reward is well worth it. All great and special cars regardless and very well done video!
Great video. Brings back some awesome memories. Drove all these cars back in the day. Ended up owning a 300GT VR4. Too bad you couldn't include the Mitsu into this, but they are also increasingly hard to find in near stock form.
I don't usually agree with Paul over Todd, but I'm 100% with him on this one. Part of me wants to buy an RX7, then go take a community college class or something and learn how to rebuild the rotary myself in the garage. That is such a lovely car both aesthetically and dynamically. Great video guys! I love when you do classics.
These guys know absolutely nothing about rotary engines. Don't let it scare you. My neighbor had 250,000mi on OEM build 12a. Lots of do and don't to make them last. Buy street rotary book. Do premix. Do not pull the eshaft bolt or your thrust bearing will drop into the front cover. Do start the car often. Do bypass the fuel pump or get a different ecu or rtek so you don't flood your spark plugs. The list goes on. They require knowledge and care.
You won’t learn how to rebuild a rotary engine at a community college 😂😂
I have had all 3 and currently own a Z32 300zxTT. Of all the presenters that have compared these legends, I believe that you guys told the honest truth about the feel and soul of each of them regardless of the final order. Thank you for keeping it real and there is one thing we can all agree on…you can’t go wrong with picking any of them to park in your garage
Yeah I had an SC300, and had to ditch the Chrome 90's wheels because the beed seal issues, kept leaking air no matter what I tried, so I went with some GS350 wheels, and with the added mass, I quickly figured out: Okay it's Supra brakes time!! Night/Day difference, and back then, wasn't an expensive upgrade, they bolt right in, obviously you get to "modify" the dust shields. Wish I woulda kept it!! even though it was the poor mans supra wannabe / slow car, the thing was SOLID.
Judging by the number of wheels/tires given by both reviewers it looks like the 300ZX came out on top.
Never will a 300zx top a supra!
@@brentwendt2249 It just did. The new Z has a 6 speed manual and made in Japan.
@@KP-xi4bj it's made in Japan which is a plus, but Toyota's reliability is unrivaled and an extra gear isn't necessarily a good thing...more moving parts, we already know Nissan's CVT transmissions are the worst. Nissan has upped its game but we'll see how it plays out.
@@brentwendt2249 Sorry, but Toyota's "reliability" has been rivalled by Mazda, a smaller company. Check out the latest reliability report from Consumer Reports.
@@KP-xi4bj I see a thousand camrys and corollas from the 90s every single day, rarely do I see 90s Mazdas anymore and when I do they're in mint condition, so they're collectibles because they're that much rarer...a 3rd gen Camry will never be a collectible just a super reliable beater
I had 2 300zx. One 93 and the other a 96 both non turbo automatic 2+2. I loved them both until the end. The real big problem with both 300zx was not that they were under powered or heavy it was once you have a vacuum leak, it's a nightmare to find it. The best mod I did on both was getting the single driveshaft from z1. It made the car react and accelerate better. If i ever get the chanse to get one again I would not think twice
I cannot get over how beautiful the z32 is to this day. I remember being 9 years old, playing in my apartment balcony, and seeing a red z32 drive by for the first time. It was love at first sight.
I couldn't afford any of them 20 years ago because I was too young and just started working, and I can't afford them now because the prices are out of control.
What a crap situation we're all in.
They are all lovely, but the FD is legendary. Supermodels are always high maintenance
Great point!
It's to bad most owners throw a hideous bodykit on it.
@@dnegel9546 so true!!
I'd rather have a wankel motor brake down on me than a Ferrari engine. It's not so expensive to repair compared to other engines
Well said!
GREAT episode. When I think of JDM, my first thoughts are these 3 cars. I never understood why the 300zx is always left out when people post pictures JDMs. Anywho, I do feel that these 3 are the kings of the 90's JDM. One day I'll have these 3 along with NSX, Starion, MR2, and 3000gt.
In the US, the NXS was the most desirable among all the Japanese cars, and also the most expensive and exotic. The GTR and EVO and STi weren’t available in the US.
Today, the most desirable Japanese sports car (even above NSX) is the legendary LFA. When will be the next one that’ll be higher than the LFA.
I'm only 30 but I've owned my 91 Twin Turbo Z for 10 years and it still puts a huge smile on my face every time I get behind the wheel and now my 10 year old daughter loves going for rides with me. It's nice to see it mentioned here with the others as the Z32 is often left out in conversations like this. Making 450whp with the NA diff makes for a tire roasting good time.
Great episode. The Z32 has always been on my list of dream cars. I've had 2 and currently looking for another.
Back in the day when I bought my Z32 I could have chosen any of these 3 for the same price range, I chose the 300ZX and my only regret is not choosing the Supra so I could sell it now, buy the Z and keep the extra money 😄
I have driven all of these. My friend still has his 6 speed Supra, my cousin has an RX7 and I recently bought a TTZ32. All wonderful cars
This is probably my favorite episode. Beautiful work. Standing ovation here fellas
Thank you for watching!
as a 300zx owner i’m happy to see it really starting to get love
This is the best car video of 2021. Thank you, thank you, thank you! You took me back to the 90s, and the 300ZX TT will also always be my favorite. It was my first car.
I love these 90s JDM hero’s but I’m not sure what’s more beautiful, the cars or the roads! 😍
That road is absolutely phenomenal. I'm up there almost every weekend in the summer on a bike.
@@nkfgm What road is that exactly?
I'm from Utah, born and raised but unfortunately I can't tell where they are. I agree, beautiful road and it would be a great drive.
@@anthonypena6322 i’m sure it’s somewhere in Colorado but where in Colorado I don’t know
This reminds me how lucky I am that I recently decided to keep and restore my '94 300ZX TT instead of selling it at some point in the last 10 or so years when I was too busy with life to make time for it. Never again.
"The RX-7 was the best car I drove, but I'm rating it last because of something that personally didn't happen during my review and is purely hearsay". They are nowhere near as fragile or require as much maintenance as people make it. The Renesis engine in the RX-8 was fragile and I feel the FD suffers some reputational damage as a result. RX-7s are very easy to work on with well-supported parts and maintenance. If you need to rebuild the engine, it's not the end of the world. Mazda is still making new blocks and they are comparatively inexpensive. Porsche's blow engines too, but compare how much they cost to replace than the RX7.
Honestly as a RX-8 owner, the renesis engine really suffers from hearsay and reputation. These rotaries are wear items ultimately, but 120-150k per engine isn't bad and totally doable if you don't crank the power up too much
@@PeterPangea yes i agree with you to a degree. Mazda definitely improved things with the series II, but the series 1 definitely was fragile in that the oiling and ignition system was not up to scratch and the engines died even when nothing actually went wrong, hence the drastic design change in series II. There are some inherent design flaws with the FD as well (namely the brittle AST, cooling off switch on temp is too high and on US models the dump pipe produces a lot of heat - noting that this was fixed on JDM models). These little things can be addressed with well-documented reliability mods. FWIW, I think that overall the RX8 is an even better chassis and drivers car than the FD.
As a current 300zx TT owner, all I can say is that every platform has its weak points. If you ever need to repair the Z for any major issues, good luck finding a competent mechanic who is willing to work on it. Some Z guys will attest, I do my own work but it absolutely is a tough engine bay to work around. And turbos are engine out service…which most mechanics won’t touch. So, yeah, I don’t think anyone can knock the rx7 necessarily either.
@@gregpieris4478 I’m also an RX-8 owner (2010 GT) and I’d say you hit the nail on the head here.
As time goes on, all of these cars’ age will mean there are plenty of “needs” for maintenance, and Mileage driven gets fewer and more for pleasure, and concerns about economy and emissions (and even outright performance specs and speed) become irrelevant.
And virtually NOTHING is as special as the RX chassis and dynamics, and the special and unique and endearing character of an eager, smooth, light and balanced engine and a car that just is happier the harder you drive it.
Great comment, I agree with you. Definitely not what I expected in the conclusion haha.
Thank you for this episode! I've been a fan of this 300ZX TT since its debut. And, yes, I agree with you on the RX-7's Wankel liability. I don't think I could fully enjoy the car not knowing if the little engine that could is going to chew itself up. For me the Supra Turbo has "become the institution" of 90's GT driving and is a bit overrated by the masses at this point. THAT is why the 300ZX TT does it for me, still, to this day. I feel that there's still an underappreciated stealth factor with it and there's room for the ceiling to rise on its value.
Well said.
I had a 1991 300ZX and a 1995 with the 222hp engines and they were a delight to drive. My commute to Manhattan was always the highlight of my day.
Completely agree with Todd the 300ZX is a blast to drive. I bought a brand new 1990 twin turbo and it was the best car I've had and I owned a corvette and I would pick the Nissan all over again. I had so much fun in that car
That 300zx commercial with Ken, Barbie and GI Joe is still to this day, one of the best car commercials I've ever seen . (Clive Owen & Madonna M5 commercial takes the cake for me)
I won't deny that the Clive & Madonna video did influence me to finally getting one of my bucket list cars #E39M5 along with my project 94' FD
I always wondered what happened to that commercial and now it makes sense why I can't find it
All 3 cars are great even in OEM form. None of them are bad. I own a 93 rx7 since 1998. By no means is the rotary that fragile. I have never been worried about the engine blowing while driving. Add premix to the gas and keep it well maintained and it will be no less fragile than the others. Many owners just dont keep up with them or add mods without proper tuning. The video quality was great and everything said about the rx7 is true except I disagree with the statement of it being fragile. Mazda recommends to red line the rx7 every once in a while to keep carbon build up out of the engine. I follow Mazda recommendations and never am I scared to red line the engine.
This! I hate the fact that that car (but also other Mazdas) are seen as these fragile little things. Sure you have to keep an eye on them more, but they are by no means, machines that'll just blow up cause you drove it too hard.
I'm so sick of reviewers brining that up as a reason to not own one. Same for the RX8 ... hurrr durrr, it's a rotary so look out. How about owners just rtfm.
A wankel being just a reliable as a 2JZ. That's a tall glass of delusion you're drinking.
I’ve had many rotary engines. And he’s right. They actually stay running good if you push them. It helps keep the carbon from building up on the apex seals as a result keeps the compression numbers up. Baby a rotary and it will eventually lose all compression.
Your right about premix and the rx7s motor being more reliable than most people think but the vg and 2jz are way more reliable
I've owned four RX-7s and will surely own another soon. The FD3S is my favorite because of the uniqueness of the rotary engines, the exquisite body design and the incredible, raw sports car driving experience.
RX-7s have always given me the same feeling that Porsches do. That's a very good thing.
The 300zx is one of the best looking car's ever made, love it, I owned one back it the 90's, regret selling it
You could produce a series with these cars and I would watch every episode.
I've always said that the 90's sports cars were the pinnacle of driving due to usability, minimal if no driver aids, great designs and reliability. They make you smile and remember when driving was actually fun
This was a time 2 remember! Such beautiful cars! Each of them is so iconic in their own way I don't know which 1 I like the best cuz I love them all so much 😂
I own a 94 Rx7 bought from the original owner July 2001 with 9 thousand miles. It now has 12,200 miles. Still ahead of it time.
I realize you are referring to a different variation but I’ve owned an ‘87 300ZX turbo since new. Fully loaded which means all 3 packages available ( electronic , leather , turbo ). It’s a 5 speed manual and hot red with T tops and virtually every time I take it for a drive people comment on it , ask about it or offer to buy it ! It runs extremely strong and will be with me forever. Thanks for the fun video.
Fully agree with the 300ZX over the Supra. The Z32 came out in 1989, and was so good that Toyota had to delay the launch of the MK4 Supra until 1993 just so it could even come close to measuring up. Funnily enough the original hero car of choice for the Fast And The Furious was the 300ZX. The only reason they changed their mind and went with the Supra was because of the roof, so they could do that scene where they punch the roof out. And now they're worth four times as much as they should be. Can't complain too much though, it meant I could afford my own 300ZX TT. :-)
Haha...wrong numb nuts. The 3000GT was the car written in the original script 😂
ua-cam.com/video/qKxAyErDPZ4/v-deo.html
@@LoopsRonin I'd always heard the roof decision was between 300ZX and the Supra, see where he's talking about the 300ZX roof 8 minutes in, so I wasn't exactly wrong. Just didn't know they were also thinking of a 3000GT too at one point, can't say I'm that big a fan of the films to have bothered finding out earlier. I know which I'd rather have anyway, no need to be a cock about it. 👍
The first choice was actually the Mitsubishi 3000GT VR4, it's even in the deleted scenes.
Not to mention when the VR4 got 320hp/315tq in 1994 it spanked the 300ZXTT in every test they were in as far as acceleration. In fact by 1994 the Z was the slowest of the group - the 1996 MW test was a send off for the Z as all 1996 TT models had 280hp instead of the full 300 because Nissan removed valve timing. MW tested a 1994 VR4 and got 60 in 4.9 and the 1/4m in 13.5@103 beating the 1996 Zs time.
In Japan the GTO MR was beating the R32 and R33 Skyline GTR, both of which literally make the 300ZX TT seem SLOW.
@@Yk-nn3qr and yet there is not one mitsubishi in the world stock that can match the r35 today,not even coming close
The 300zx has T-Tops too.. So?..
when motorweek reviewed these cars new in the 90’s in addition to the 3000gt, they liked the 300zx best.
Great review! My friends and I had these three in period. I had the 300Z in charcoal with t-tops. It was my choice then and would be still today. People will disagree, but it simply has the best driving position and presence. The Z turns heads if you're a car person or not and the Supra is just another Toyota for non car people.
I personally imported my '91 ZX 21 years ago and still have it! I sold my skyline years ago and now regret it! The ZX is so much better than Skyline in many ways , I will keep it as long as possible! Awesome vid! Bring back production of these cars!
Been looking at 300ZX TT’s for the past week, and this video just convinced me. Will definitely be buying one soon!
Hilariously this test in the 90's would be an "affordable sports car" test. Now 2/3 are more expensive than brand new sports cars.
True. The 300zx is actually the most attainable one to buy.
Love you dude's and this channel, but holy heck I have been waiting for this WAY TOO long. All dream 90's JDM perfection...
Might end up being your most viewed video of the year with all the craze going on in the JDM cars market 🤙🏻
Great video. I owned a 91 300zx TT for about 5 years, current own a Nismo Z34. Nice seeing these cars being compared again. Kind of missed the 3000GT Vr4 though
Really enjoyed the review, save for my ego that the Supra didnt come in first! I wish you guys had driven one with the sequential not parallel. Better powerband; parallel is all the lag of a single and none of the power. My Supra is similar to the one reviewed and it is a perfect canyon carving machine. The FD might be the most beautiful car Japan ever made. Z32 is quickly finding a deserved place with the rest of these, finally getting out of the skyline shadow.
Haha yea, but in parallel it removes that annoying power dip from the turbo switch at around 4k. I never liked that and is off putting, especially in turns. (Though it's a lot more of an issue when BPU). Also, I've seen dynos where you do get 5-10whp more on top end in parallel, albeit at the expense of low end torque. Personally, I don't notice the loss much even around town. Lastly it does help preserve the second turbo.
classic everyday driver, amazing cars, interesting exposés. I love these vids, been watching since the 2007 cayman s review in 2012
I wound up with a mazdaspeed 3 because i couldn't afford it the time but i really wanted it.
FWIW, you would find the driver's accommodations better in a LHD RX-7 - the cabin floor and firewall on the RH side (in both LHD and RHD cars) has a substantially less deep foot well, and a double-wall spacing both up and back, to clear the exhaust, and keep the heat of the turbos and cats from penetrating the cabin. My 6'3" fits easily in the driver's seat of my FC, even with an SA helmet - and when I sit on the right in my own car, I'm always surprised at how much less room I have in the right seat. This has been true when I've been in FDs too.
so true, but also for another reason. LHD cars (designed for europe and US) had a longer seat rail, which means they could slide further back and (if i remember correctly, since its been a long time) a lower seating position. all done to accomodate for the taller drivers compared to japans domestic market.
I pretty .much posted the same sentiments (though not as eloquent) before i found that you had already addressed it.
Rhd fd's are smaller on the passenger side than the drivers side.
Man I miss my Rx7 what a car to drive!
don't miss the cost of filling her up though ;-)
Great video! Definitely nostalgic if you're over 50 years old! These were Asian sensations, as I had 85 Mazda gsl-se and 88 300zx...great cars! Thanks for the memories!! Another interesting video of that time would be Buick Grand National, Monte Carlo SS and the Hurst Olds 442...
I drove a 1990 300ZX as my daily driver for 15 years, not only was it fun to drive, it was the most reliable and comfortable car I’ve ever owned.
I bought a 93 FD new and owned it for eight years. I did a lot of track days with that car and even took it down to Peter Farrells shop in VA for suspension and engine modifications. If you don't push the boost it is not nearly as unreliable as was made out to be in this video, and a near stock example can be reliable. I beat the snot out of mine for years with countless track days and put over 60K miles on it with virtually no issues.
I also had friends that owned the Supra and the 300Z, we would frequently do track days together and swap cars, so I know what all three are like with proper track modifications. For pure driving experience the other two don't come close. The RX7 is like an extension of you, like you are wearing it, the other two I liken to driving a tank. However, with modifications and big sticky tires they can definitely move on a road course.
I was loving life with the RX7, going to track days trouble free, but then I got the itch for more power and went to a big single turbo trying to make it the ultimate power house. At first even that worked well, but I kept pushing, I had it in my head that I wanted reliable 400 WHP out of it, because then I would be happy. That is when I first got my engine hoist and got really good at removing and installing the engine, I could do it in about two hours. We tried every type of apex seal, 3 mm, ceramic, unobtanium... After about 8 or 9 engine rebuilds I gave up and sold it after popping the engine twice in one month. But if I could have just been happy with around 350 WHP (which is plenty on a 2800 lb car) all those engine failures would not of happened.
Sure those engines wont last over a 100K, but here is the thing most people forget, there is hardly nothing to those engines, no heads, no valves, all you have are the housings, two rotors, the crank, and seals, and when they let go a large percentage of the parts are reusable. Doing the work myself each rebuild typically cost me around $1000, heck back then you could get a complete rebuilt engine from Mazda for around $2500. I just had a look, it appears you can still get a factory rebuilt short block for around $5K, which means you can rebuild them for a lot less.
Don't get me wrong, this car is more work than some of the others, and a lot more than anything new, but stock or lightly modified they aren't nearly as fragile as many would have you believe. But if you want to own one, it is a good idea to be the sort that is capable and likes wrenching on cars, or can afford to pay someone else to do it. But this is true with any performance car you are racing and modifying.
I miss that car, but would I want one now? No, but that is true of any 25 -30+ year old car, I don't care how reliable you think it is, as they age, they all start falling apart. I have a couple friends with Mark 4 Supra's that they driver only on occasions, and they are constantly have issues with one thing or another. The RX7 is special, and is by far one of the best looking cars to ever come out of Japan, but there are just to many new cars that (stock) are far superior in so many ways, and have a warranty. if I had a collection sure, but as a second or third car that I would want to use on a regular basis, they are just way to big of a hassle. I would much rather spend the money on a much newer used C8, once the novelty wears off and they start getting more inventory so you can get one for well below MSRP. For $60K I would take a slightly used C8 over an old MK4 Supra any day of the week.
Very interesting perspective 👍🏾
Why were your engines popping? My FD sits at about 400 whp, just on 93 pump gas and no AI. A single turbo setup tuned to 15-16 psi is not any less reliable as far as, will it run fine and not randomly explode. Less overall longevity maybe, as in rebuilding every 60k instead of 100k... Friction wear is wear after all. but if you have the proper supporting mods, you should definitely not be "popping" 400 whp 13B REW's twice a month. That's absurd. Bad tune or bad build. I'm on year 4 of my current rebuild, no issues. Plenty of owners out there like me.
@@rotaryenforcer Well, before you start mouthing off about a situation you know nothing about, consider this was 25 years ago, the experience and technology we have now did not exist back then. No one could hack the factory ECU at that time, all we had was crappy piggy back systems that provided very limited control over fuel and timing, even boost control was more like a vague suggestion. I eventually went to a full replacement engine management system (Haltech) but this was back when all that stuff was just beginning to be used in "street cars" and there were no established maps for this car. I also learned years later that there were some issues with the early wire harness causing noise on the timing signal so... These are all things that have been discovered over time and through experience, which people like you now benefit from years later.
I made 400 WHP but I was all about road racing, I even had a membership at one of the very first road course country clubs, so when I say this car was driven hard...
What I found is that more power with a big laggy turbo actually increased my lap times. More peak power is not always a good thing, so I switched to the smallest turbo I could find that should be able to make around 450 HP. All of these things from control systems to turbo technology have vastly improved in the last twenty plus years. Also I was driving this car all the time and road racing it every other week. So the idea that it is now possible to get 400 WHP with some degree of reliability is not so surprising or impressive, especially if all you do is drive it on the street.
Having said all that we all see people modifying cars and popping motors all the time, and that is true for any type of engine or manufacturer. When you essentially double the power output, your reliability is going down, and as you get closer to the edge it doesn't take much, one tank of bad gas, a faulty sensor, a loose connection...
My point in sharing my experience was to counter Paul's idiotic irrational fear being expressed on this show. He was driving a mint condition, low mileage stock car, and pretending it could blow up at any moment, that is absurd. I have never seen or heard of a stock or near stock car popping a motor. They may not last as long as most piston engines, but they are also a lot cheaper and easier to rebuild.
Given the prices these days, unless you have some nostalgia for these old cars, none of them make sense to own and operate. Back in the day if you wanted an 11, 12, or even a 13 second car you had no choice but to buy something with potential and modify it. Now you get family sedans off the show room floor that will do 12 and even 11 second 1/4 mile and pull over a G around corners. Paying these ridiculous prices for some old worn out sports car makes no sense for cost or performance.
They are really only good if you can get one cheap and convert it to a full race car, or keep it close to stock for Sunday drives and show off at cars and coffee. Anyone that claims you can get one of these old beat on cars (and trust me they have all been beat on), modify them, race them, and use them daily trouble free, is either lying, or they have been extremely fortunate. Cars do not last, not unless you barely use them, or you spend a lot of time and money constantly restoring them.
I loved my Z32-TT. But I also love working on cars with simple tools in my garage. Sold it for a 240Z and am much happier. I want to be able to lash my valves and adjust my points. The Z32 engine bay is just a nightmare. But the cockpit design of the interior was great. Everything was right where it should be and in easy reach.
I replaced a turbo once on my z32 with the engine and Trans in place. It took me 3 days lol
Great episode !!
Love the 300ZX (Z32) 👌
I can't believe they said these were the most desirable Japanese cars of the 90s and didn't include the NSX. Just looked up price of first gen NSX... its right along the same price as a MK IV Supra turbo, starting at $60k
That’s partly because the NSX did not sell as well as the others so they are more rare. It’s super desirable now but in the 90s I think it confused people because it seemed underpowered for the price.
25:51
Damn, even just cruising that thing sounds so good. Just clean and healthy noises.
great episode you guys kill it keep them coming thank you! Three beauties that just keep getting better with age. Still remember falling in love with these on PlayStation and fast and furious. The more I learn about them and fall in love with the JDM Legends, the more I love having bought a C4 and C5 for a combined $15,000 and daily/tracking/drifting/roadtripping them constantly. Especially The handful of times when I actually needed a part and it turned out to be $20 and in stock at the corner napa 👍👍👍😁
I LOVE that you guys came to such differing conclusions! And yes, truth is, you couldn't really go wrong with any of these..
You guys are way too hyperbolic and paranoid about rotary engines. I’ve had every generation of RX7 and had no issues. The last one, the engine went at 220,000 km. A rebuild or new engine was around 4K at the time. You can get a bill like that on a Mercedes’ or BMW with that mileage, because I have. Other than that another great review, as usual!
I agree with you, but that's pretty much how the internet is when it's anything rotary. Eh, it is what it is and it's still my favorite engine design of all time. Fun video and nice to take a walk down memory lane again.
The conclusion threw me for a loop because I just KNEW that Paul would put the 7 last...and wow was I wrong, I figured Todd would go the other way despite the potential possibility maybe possibly of an engine failure, but again I was wrong haha.
Yep currently own an fd and these guys are exaggerating, but I guess when they haven’t experienced ownership they just go off what the internet says. I think of a rebuild as a part of maintenance.
@@zaneelzein4454 you're on the internet and just proved their point with your comment. Most people don't consider rebuilds as regular maintenance, nor do they want to. The fact you do justifies the internet's accurate view of those things. Honestly, it's hilarious to read the apologists for RX-7s. Practically anyone who claims they're actually reliable has a 12 step program that no other car needs to run in order to be "reliable," which means all things being equal, they're not.
I've had 2 rx7 and 2 rx8 and never had a problem with them.
I own a 94 RX-7. When the hyperbole over the engine reliability started to fly, I stopped watching. Buy a Camry. The FD ain’t for you.
First time stumbling across an EverydayDriver video... fantastic work, gentlemen! 90's Japanese sportscars are simply the best driving (and styling) experience. It's mind blowing to think that these cars are 30 year old designs. Think of driving a 50's car in the 80's, or a 60's car in the 90's for contrast. As a 90's Toyota MR2 owner, the "new generation" pain of these "modern classic" cars crossing the 30 year mark isn't the mechanical reliability, but the electronic systems (such as capacitors going bad, leaking and destroying traces on circuit boards). Without question, they are well worth every effort to keep them all running and enjoy cruising twisty roads for years to come.
Glad you found us. Thanks for watching!
6 years ago this video would not have been made. I remember in very recent history always being hated on for loving the Z32, with people always saying that it was fat slow and ugly, not a sports car but a "G.T." until one day it blew up on the internet and went from being a 4K all day to over 10k no matter what on the market place. it's ridiculous, I wish I didn't listen to everyone and bought it before it became an unobtainable internet car, and got eaten up by the cutler vaulters. At least people finally appreciate it. Great vid by the way.
I was the owner of a 1992 Z32, it was my first Japanese car, my first sports car, first "tuner" car, and honestly my first real love. It taught my heartache, passion, dedication and caring. She was finicky, but responded to being cared about. Hugged corners on rails even though she felt a bit heavy. The seemingly never ending power and torque pulling from any RPM, and gear. I miss that car dearly, owning a 91 S13 Silvia now, because I wanted something more reliable. (Jokes on me) I want another one, but they are so outragedly far outside of my price range now though. So it will be something for a much more future self. But Nissan forever in my heart because of the 90s S/Z/R
Very good episode, and I can appreciate the logic behind both the driving and the final choices.
I haven't driven any of these, though I have sat in an FD and have had a couple hundred miles behind an A70 Supra so it's hard for me to make a direct comparison. However, out of the '90s Japanese sports cars I've experienced my personal favorite and the one I went for is the SW20 MR2 Turbo. I feel it fits me better than the FD ergonomically(which I felt was the gold standared before I drove the MR2), and I like a smaller, more nimble car than the Supra. It's slightly lighter than the FD and is even marginally quicker than the stock Supra. The seats are pretty comfortable. It's a mid-engined car with a usable trunk; I managed a long weekend trip with a passenger with no real issues. Visibility is excellent, and the handling is absolutely amazing. It's not a beginner's car for sure, but out of the pantheon of wonderful golden era Japanese rockets, the MR2 is my top pick.
Where's the 3000GT VR4?!
This video could not be completed without the VR4! The active technology were way ahead of their time.
They don’t get the love these three plus NSX get. I think mainly due to transverse front drive based awd system. But I think VR4 was amazing with the active aeros and tech way ahead of the times. The platform just doesn’t have the enthusiast following of the supras or rx7. Frankly, NSX should be up there instead but I’m sure Todd’s 300zx was an easy choice to round up.
We only included front engined, RWD cars for this test, which rules out the 3000GT in any flavor, any Skyline GT-R, and the NSX.
They probably wouldn't have liked driving it nearly as much as the other 3
@@phattyhales makes perfect sense. It’s funny that on every UA-cam video titled 90s Japanese legend, every other comment is about the missing ones. It’s not like you can gather all of them together in near stock form! That would be something to see though if you can get a Z, RX7, VR4, NSX, Supra, MR2, GTR and I’m sure someone will come up with another I’m forgetting. Lol.
@@bjj5746 No kidding! We had a VERY hard time finding a near stock Supra, let alone a stock one. I can't imagine what trying finding a VR4 would be like. We did have a NSX and R33 offered to us though but didn't fit our criteria. The NSX is really in a different class entirely anyway.
I owned both the RX7 (an R1 version), and a 300ZX TT, and importantly to me, did track days/autocrossed both, along with long road drives. I thought I wanted the Supra until I drove one and found it was just too large, heavy and soft in comparison. I love Toyota products overall, and this was great grand touring or street car only, but just not very athletic. In comparison the the RX7 R1 was a GREAT car on a track, autox or smooth mountain road, but the R1's ride was pretty damn hard. The ZX fell in between, with a nice ride and great power, but heavy feeling and the HICAS 4WS system made it understeer heavily when pushed hard.
The RX7 still looks great to this day IMO, and the 300ZX has aged well too, where I think the Supra looks a little strange now. All great cars with their own set of pluses and minuses. My favorite is/was easily the RX7 though!
to me its the 300zx that has "aged" the most, looks the most dated.
Agreed.
@@kylemack8864 supra fanboy spotted
These three were my poster cars during my senior year of high school. Truly my holy trinity. They were completely mind-blowing to me back then, and I still love them today. Well done, fellas!!!
It would have been interesting to see how the 3000GT stacked up. The NSX is in a different class IMO. I wanted a 300ZX SO bad back in the day! Still kind of do. 😁 Great video
I love all three of these cars, hell I own a 300ZX, and love the hell out of it. That being said, i have been in a FD RX-7 and love the looks, but the 300ZX is a much better highway car. Now for the Supra, its a great car, but i feel like its over rated by a lot, because of the movies that shall not be named. also, bold move choosing the 300zx over the Supra, you will get a lot of hate for it, but I feel like it was the right choice.
Yeah I agree the Supra is definitely overrated. I’ve been in an Rx7 also and it’s a blast, also agree that the rx7 isn’t the best in highways, never been in a 300zx though sounds fun.
300zxTT was on Car and Driver’s Top 10 list every single year of production. The FD3S won the best handling sports car competition. The Supra never won shit except the “I’m heaviest” award. I laugh when people mention the VR4, because car mags routinely ranked them dead last. The 300ZXTT, FD3S and NSX are the ones to have.
@@joeracer302 couldn’t agree more
Awesome comparison! Would it be possible to repeat this test with the 80s counterparts of the fc rx7, z31 300zx and a70 Supra?
I'm pretty sure i saw such a video comparison on YT a while ago
Sounds like a great idea!
So I'm the owner of the Supra in this video. I presented that same idea, an FC, Z31, and a MA70 Supra. My brother has an 87 turbo Supra that's 60k miles and it's stock so i know he would be up for it is Paul/Todd wanted to do this.
They're all great cars, but the 300ZX is on another level of design. It looks so iconic and timeless. Swap out just the wheels or just the 90s style dashboard instruments and it feels modern, or even futuristic still. I made it my life dream to buy one and I'm so glad I finally did.
Great video. I truly enjoyed it. I am a former owner of a Stealth R/T twin turbo that I chose over a 300zx TT. It was a choice I made based on the quality of the two examples I was choosing between. This video had me picking up my phone and looking at prices for a 300zx TT. Thanks
Its interesting the 300ZX was so obviously designed for the American market, it was really criticized elsewhere for its weight - and later for reliability. It always had more love in America than Europe or Japan.
As a former FD RX7, everything they said was true. The car was so great to drive the rotary was reliable when it worked! But it was a really fragile car, things were so easy to break on it and it kept you paranoid! I took it to a track day once and it overheated and blew a heater hose on the 1st session! So the rest of the day me and my fiancé shared her NA8 Miata the rest of the day 😂 bottom line is, it’s a fantastic car, own and drive one! But be prepared to spend thousands of dollars on maintenance! It’s just the age that comes with these cars.
300ZX TT for the win. I read somewhere that it was actually the 300ZX that was supposed to be the hero car in F&F but they needed the whole roof to come off for that one scene so that's why they chose the Supra instead. The original real story that F&F was based on was with a 300ZX TT. But im glad they didn't choose the 300ZX because now you can own one that is cheaper and better than the Supra, and IMO cleaner lines than the Supra. The Supra is no slouch just way overhyped. The RX7 just looks gorgeous. Close second to the Z. But the Z has that timless beauty only a few car designs can claim.
I remember walking on a Toyota dealer lot back in 1998 (I was 20). They had two Supra's left. One TT and one NA. I remember thinking how sad it was that they never sold well and now they are going away. The Mk4 was really a head turner. I would of bought one that day if I had the means!
I'm an owner of 300zx 96tt for almost 22yrs now. This video makes me love my car more. Thanks for the video.