Mazda provided a limited preview of its upcoming RX-7 model, reportedly a 1993 model year vehicle. The examination involved short drives in two unfinished prototypes. The new RX-7 is expected to be lighter, lower, shorter, and wider than the current version.
The vehicle is anticipated to feature a 255-hp engine, a significant increase from the previous 200 hp. Mazda's chief operating officer in the region stated the new RX-7 is intended as a "pure, two-seat sports car." The car is expected to be positioned in the low-$30,000 range. Mazda reportedly produces over 100,000 two-seater cars annually, including the RX-7 and Miata.
The new RX-7 will use a development of the two-rotor, 1308cc 13B engine, despite earlier rumors of a three-rotor Wankel. A twin-sequential-turbocharger installation is expected to provide thrust starting around 3000 rpm and another surge around 6000 rpm. This 255-hp boosted engine is currently the only powerplant anticipated for the RX-7. Mazda projects a 0-to-60-mph acceleration time of 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 156 mph.
The car's body and chassis package include 225/50-16 tires on eight-inch-wide wheels, ventilated disc brakes with standard anti-lock control, and aluminum suspension control arms. The vehicle is expected to have a stiff, compact welded-steel structure. The prototypes reportedly displayed benign handling. Final spring rates and the installation of rocker-panel stiffening members were still to be determined during the prototype drives. The 1993 model is expected to be nearly an inch and a half shorter in length and height, but almost two and a half inches wider. Mazda forecasts a curb weight around 2800 pounds, which is 100 pounds lighter than a 1991 RX-7 Turbo.