1993-1995 Mazda RX-7: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1993-1995 Mazda RX-7 and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Antilock brakes
- Dual airbags (1994-95 models)
- Acceleration
- Handling
Cons
- Passenger and cargo room
- Fuel economy
- Ride
- Road noise
Vehicle Highlights
Launched as an early '93 model, the third-generation RX-7 adopted a back-to basics approach that was reminiscent of the original 1978-85 model. The convertible and the closed 2+2 coupe were gone, leaving a lighter, more-potent hatchback coupe with fresh styling. The rear-wheel-drive layout and 1.3-liter rotary engine were retained from the second generation, but twin turbochargers boosted horsepower to 255. Either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission could be installed. The RX-7's wheelbase was little-changed, but overall length shrunk by 1.4 inches. The car was 2.4 inches wider and 1.4 inches lower than before. Base curb weight dropped by some 190 pounds, compared to the old Turbo. A driver's airbag, all-disc antilock braking, and limited-slip differential were standard. The performance-minded R-1 option added dual oil coolers and body spoilers, but was not available with the luxury-oriented Touring Package. That option group included leather seats, a power sunroof, Bose speakers, and cruise controls in the steering-wheel hub.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Mazda RX-7 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 7 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 2 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 8 | |
| Quietness | 2 | |
| Controls/Materials | 5 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 0 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 1 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 37 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1993-1995 Mazda RX-7. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1993-1995 Mazda RX-7.
Year to Year Changes
1994 Mazda RX:
Improvements this year included a new "one-touch" feature for the driver's window, plus map pockets. Dual airbags were installed, and a softer suspension setting aimed to reduce ride harshness over bumps--especially in the base and Touring editions. Dashboards were revised slightly. A new option group put popular features into a single package. Three major option groups were offered: Luxury-oriented Touring (now with a power steel sunroof rather than glass); Performance (now called R-2); and Popular Equipment (sunroof, leather, and a rear cargo cover).
1995 Mazda RX:
Not many changes were evident for 1995, as the RX-7 began to fade out of Mazda's lineup, a victim of sluggish sales. The car's standard air conditioning unit switches to CFC-free refrigerant. The Touring Package was dropped, but leather seats, a cargo cover, and a power steel sunroof remained available in the optional Popular Equipment Group. Red leather upholstery no longer was offered. An R-2 performance package also remained available, featuring a firmer suspension, dual oil coolers, rear spoiler, front air dam, and Z-rated tires.
Our road test for the 1993-1995 Mazda RX-7 includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1993-1995 Mazda RX-7 and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1993-1995 Mazda RX-7 is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
This is a car for shoppers who value performance over comfort. A potent turbocharged engine, razor-sharp handling talents, and head-turning styling make the RX-7 a joy for the serious driver--provided that driver can afford the tariff. Mazda called this generation a more "honest" sports car with fewer unsporting frills than its immediate predecessor. Acceleration is nothing short of exhilarating, though turbo boost sometimes turns up in a sudden, unexpected rush of power that can catch the unwary driver off guard. A test 5-speed RX-7 zoomed to 60 mph in a sizzling 5.9 seconds. Not quite so appealing was its fuel mileage, averaging just 15.3 mpg from an even mix of driving on expressways and surface streets. Premium gasoline is required, adding to the everyday driving cost. Handling is quick and responsive, virtually free of body lean. Brakes are powerful, able to bring this coupe to a halt with excellent control and nearly no nosedive. An even 50/50 weight distribution between front and rear allows the RX-7 to change direction with flawless balance and control. Tenacious road grip on dry pavement inspires confidence. Find yourself on wet roads, however, and caution is mandatory because the rear tires can lose traction easily. The ride is stiff on all roads and harsh on rough surfaces--even with the softer suspension installed for '94. That gets tiring on long drives. Wind noise is low at highway speeds, but tires and suspensions thump and bump loudly, on all but unblemished surfaces. Engine noise is prominent, if pleasant to hear. Space is adequate for two. Cabin comfort is fine for shorter folks, but tall ones are likely to find head room limited. Seats are narrow and lanky drivers may find their knees colliding with the non-adjustable steering wheel. The dashboard is clean and convenient, but the cargo bay holds only a couple of small suitcases. Entry and exit demand the usual sports-car gymnastics.
Value for the Money
By the time the car hit its final season, the base price had hit $36,500. Expensive when new, secondhand RX-7 coupes tend to be rather high-priced even with plenty of miles on their odometers. Mazda had only a couple of real rivals in the early '90s, including the Toyota Supra Turbo and Nissan 300ZX Turbo. We recommend it over a Corvette, 300ZX and other high-end sports cars--provided you value high performance over comfort.
By the time the car hit its final season, the base price had hit $36,500. Expensive when new, secondhand RX-7 coupes tend to be rather high-priced even with plenty of miles on their odometers. Mazda had only a couple of real rivals in the early '90s, including the Toyota Supra Turbo and Nissan 300ZX Turbo. We recommend it over a Corvette, 300ZX and other high-end sports cars--provided you value high performance over comfort.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Mazda RX-7 Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 7 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 2 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 8 | |
| Quietness | 2 | |
| Controls/Materials | 5 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 0 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 1 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 37 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Mazda RX includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Mazda RX .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Air conditioner:
A problem in the hazard-flasher switch circuit prevents the air conditioning from working. (1993-95)
Climate control:
Using a nonoriginal-equipment air filter allows hot air to be drawn into the air pump causing it to fail. (1993-95)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $350 |
| Alternator | $390 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,055 |
| Brakes | $400 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $670 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,400 |
| Exhaust System | $305 |
| Radiator | $410 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $640 |
Our price chart for this generation Mazda RX details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 1995 | |||
| RX-7 | $10,000-11,200 | $9,000-10,100 | $5,200-5,800 |
| 1994 | |||
| RX-7 | $7,800-9,000 | $7,000-8,100 | $4,000-4,600 |
| 1993 | |||
| RX-7 | $6,300-7,300 | $5,500-6,400 | $2,800-3,200 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Mazda RX include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door coupe | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 95.5 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 168.5 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 68.9 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 48.4 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2826 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 17 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 20 | |
| Seating Capacity | 2 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 37.6 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 44.1 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | -- | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | -- | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
A turbocharged twin-rotor Wankel (rotary) engine sent its 255 horsepower to either a 5-speed manual gearbox or a 4-speed automatic transmission.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| Turbocharged 2-rotor Wankel | 1.3 / 81 | 255 | 217 | 5-speed manual: 17/25 4-speed automatic: 17/24 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: Japan
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Mazda RX include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1993-1995 Mazda RX-7 directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1993:
Oil mist contained in engine intake air can collect over time in brake-vacuum check valve, preventing it from opening at specified pressure and reducing power assist to brakes.
1993-94:
Radiator-cap pressure relief-valve pressure is set too high, causing coolant to reach excessive temperatures.
1993-94:
Residual engine heat can cause premature deterioration of fuel hose.
1993-95 w/accessory hood:
Hook on hood striker for Mazda Speed Resinous hoods, sold as accessories, may separate from base plate at welded portion; hood may open suddenly.
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