1985 Mazda RX7 GSL-SE 13B

Summary:

Outstanding perforrnance, value and reliability

Faults:

I have owned this GSL-SE since new (18 years) and experienced very few problems.

The entire car is stock, except for replacing the power antenna four times.

After 313K miles, I need a new 13B engine. Imagine that, 313K miles on the same engine, clutch, transmission, radiator, etc.

General Comments:

This has been the most reliable, fun to drive car I have ever owned.

She has an amazing power curve, enters the freeway with ease, and wants to cruise at 70-80 mph all day.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 10th August, 2003

29th Oct 2003, 21:31

Well, there is no doubt about it that the 13B engine is an excellent car, but the main reason your car can rum 313 miles, is because it is under the concept of the exceptionally built rotary engine. I too hope to soon get an 1985 GSL-SE having completely rebuilt the 13B engine myself. The car without a doubt is a remarkable piece of machinery.

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1985 Mazda RX7 GSL-SE 13B

Summary:

No turn can be taken too fast

Faults:

The catalytic pre converter seized dumped into the main cat which dumped into the muffler. This happened as of this April. Best part is that all of the parts that went bad were all stock! So after 75000+ miles and over 17 years I had to replaced the exhaust system. The only draw back to this is that the Rx7 in 85 had 3 catalytic converters.

General Comments:

My first car was a 1985 Mazda rx7. Since then I have had an 86 Toyota pickup then a 2000 Chevy s10. In 2002 I sold my brand new car and bought a 1985 Mazda Rx7 GSL-SE. And from now on will never own anything other than a rotary powered car. They are easy to maintain and have a longer life than most piston driven engines. Also with the new Renisis engine from Mazda featured in the Rx8. I wouldn't doubt we'll see another REPU.

The Rx7 family of cars are by far the best bang for your buck. If you are lucky to find an 85 GSL-SE it's a light weight car with a good amount of power. I would recommend this car to anyone looking for a car that can take the turns with the best of them.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 31st May, 2003

10th Jul 2008, 15:03

As someone who has owned 4 1st Gen RX7s over the years (I keep coming back) I have to say that I have never found a more fun to drive, reliable (virtually bullet proof) car... and I've owned Toyota's, Honda's, Fords, Dodges, etc.

Are they hard on gas...yes...it's a SPORTS CAR with a 4bbl carb!

They are only problematic if you take them to someone who has no idea what they are doing for maintenance.

They are so well designed the average talented back yard mechanic is more than capable. The problem is when you try to take to a mechanic/dealer who is used to doing brake jobs and tune ups on Cavalier's etc.

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1985 Mazda RX7 GSL 12A 1.1 Litre rotary

Summary:

A great sports car for someone who doesn't mind taking care of their car

Faults:

I've had a few problems with the alternator. Had to replace one power window switch ($10 from the wreckers) and the car had a strange problem where it would bog out, which turned out to just be the plug wires. Parts are generally kind of pricey (Spark plugs are $25 a pair) but I personally think it's worth it for such a fun car.

General Comments:

This car is an incredible little piece of engineering... the tight suspension gives you a great feel the the road, it's quick, it's fun, it looks great and it just brings a smile to my face every time I drive it. I plan to own it till the day I die!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 1st April, 2003

1985 Mazda RX7

Summary:

It's fast, comfortable, and stylish

Faults:

The starter was screwed and the seats were ripped so I put new ones in.

General Comments:

This car runs great. I hit 155mph in it so far. It's stylish and fun - I bought it for $300 and nothing but the starter and the seats were messed up with it, I was surprised for that cost. I grip the road with it so easy.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 6th January, 2003

28th Aug 2012, 16:05

You hit 155 mph in a 1985 RX7? Did this car have an aftermarket turbo installed? The 1985 RX7 GSL with the 12A engine might hit 125 mph on a very long road, and the GSL-SE with the 13B had a top speed of around 135 mph. It wasn't until the 1992+ 3rd generation twin-turbo that a Mazda RX7 could reach 155 mph.