1990-1992 Mazda RX-7: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Back in the 1970s, Mazda had virtually initiated the marketing of rotary-engined automobiles. By 1990, the sole remaining example in the U.S. market was the rear-drive RX-7 sports car, having been redesigned for 1986. Cosmetic freshening and mechanical improvements took place during the 1989 model year, so the 1990 model was essentially a carryover, except for adding a driver's airbag to the convertible. The 1990 lineup included GTU, GTU S, and GXL hatchback 2-passenger coupes, a GXL 2+2 hatchback (with a back seat), plus a Turbo coupe and a convertible. All RX-7 models with a 1.3-liter rotary engine. Only the regular hatchback coupe could be turbocharged. The normally aspirated version of the twin-rotor engine was rated at 160 horsepower. Turbos produced 200 horsepower. A 5-speed manual transmission was standard; 4-speed automatic optional, except for the Turbo which was manual shift only. All-disc brakes were standard. Antilock brakes were offered only on the Turbo, where they were standard. A driver's airbag was installed only on convertibles; others had motorized seatbelts.