The Mazda RX-7 FB is a sports car that was produced from 1985 to 1991 as the second generation of the RX-7 model line. With its lightweight rotary engine, smooth handling, and sleek wedge-shaped body, the RX-7 FB has become a sought-after classic Japanese sports car. But with used car prices constantly fluctuating, how much can you expect to pay for an RX-7 FB today?
Overview of the RX-7 FB
The FB generation of the RX-7 was a major redesign over the previous SA22C model. While the SA22C had pop-up headlights and a more “boxy” body, the FB adopted a more aerodynamic and futuristic wedge shape with flush-mounted headlights. This gave the RX-7 FB a very sleek, exotic look for the time.
Under the hood, the RX-7 FB continued with Mazda’s unique rotary engine design. This compact and lightweight Wankel rotary motor enabled the RX-7 to be very agile and fuel efficient compared to traditional piston engines. The FB was offered with two sequentially-turbocharged rotary engines:
- 12A – 2-rotor naturally aspirated (135 hp)
- 13B – 2-rotor twin turbocharged (182-200 hp)
These high-revving rotary motors gave the FB a unique personality and a racy exhaust note. Power was sent to the rear wheels either through a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission.
To match the improved power of the turbo 13B engine, the FB’s suspension was substantially upgraded too. It received stiffer springs, bigger brakes, and for the first time, a complex independent rear suspension system. This helped give the FB much more responsive cornering and grip compared to its predecessor.
Lightweight materials were used throughout the design, with the body being made of plastic and aluminum. At just over 2,800 lbs, the FB was very light for its era. This low curb weight was critical to the RX-7’s agile handling.
So in summary, the RX-7 FB represented major leaps forward in Mazda’s rotary sports car engineering. It looked exotic, sounded unique, and offered incredible performance potential.
Pricing When New
When it was first introduced, the base price of the RX-7 FB was around $13,000 USD. Adjusted for inflation, that equates to around $32,000 in 2023 dollars. Higher trims with the turbocharged 13B engine retailed closer to $20,000 ($49,000 today).
Here were the factory trim levels offered:
- Base – 12A naturally aspirated engine, 5-speed manual transmission
- GSL – Base model with optional sunroof
- GSL-SE – Top-line model, 13B turbocharged engine, leather seats, power windows
Mazda positioned the RX-7 FB as an affordable, lightweight sports car alternative to heavier and more expensive rivals like the Toyota Supra, Nissan 300ZX, and Porsche 944.
Used Market Prices Today
Given its importance in Japanese sports car history, the demand for good condition FB RX-7s has continually grown, especially in the last 5 years. Low mileage, unmolested examples are getting very hard to find. This scarcity has driven up values considerably.
Here are some typical asking prices you can expect to see today for RX-7 FBs based on condition and features:
| Condition | Average Asking Price |
|---|---|
| Non-running/extremely rough | $2,000 – $6,000 |
| Fair condition driver quality | $6,000 – $12,000 |
| Good condition with minor mods | $12,000 – $18,000 |
| Excellent stock condition | $18,000 – $25,000 |
| Concours level low mileage | $25,000 – $50,000+ |
As you can see, an FB RX-7 in good shape can easily cost over $15,000 today, with pristine examples exceeding $25,000. And customized or modified examples can sometimes fetch an even higher premium.
Key Price Factors
Some of the key factors that affect an FB RX-7’s value include:
- Mileage and condition – Lower miles and better condition command higher prices
- Maintenance history – Proof of proper rotary engine maintenance is very desirable
- Originality – Completely stock and unmodified examples are worth more
- Engine – Turbocharged 13B models are worth considerably more than 12A NA models
- Transmission – Manual transmission cars cost more than automatics
- Body style – 2-seater models are more sought-after than 2+2 models
- Optional equipment – GSL-SE trim with power accessories, leather, sunroof fetch higher valuations
So in general, a low mileage, unmodified GSL-SE model with the turbo 13B and manual transmission will be the most valuable variant.
Is buying an RX-7 FB a good investment?
In addition to being an amazing car to drive, the FB RX-7 has proven to be an excellent investment over the years. Prices have steadily climbed, and interest continues to grow. Many consider FBs to be future collectibles, so buying one can be a smart financial decision if done carefully.
Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros:
- Values continue to rise, especially for low mileage cars
- Rarity is increasing as these get harder to find
- Strong enthusiast following; considered an icon
- One of the last affordable classic Japanese sports cars
Cons:
- Requires knowledge of rotary engine maintenance
- Replacement parts can be expensive
- Modifications may hurt resale value
- Bubble price increases may slow down
Overall, the FB RX-7 remains an excellent choice as both an investment and weekend toy. Just be sure to do your research and find a car with solid maintenance records. Patience is also important, as the right deal can sometimes take time to find.
Conclusion
Thanks to its legendary performance capabilities and iconic styling, the second-generation Mazda RX-7 FB has emerged as one of the most sought-after Japanese sports cars on the classic car market. While prices have certainly increased in recent years, finding a good example under $20,000 is still possible with some searching.
For the purist collector or rotary engine enthusiast, paying over $25,000 for a pristine, low mileage example may well be justified too. As the pool of surviving FB RX-7s shrinks, prices will likely continue climbing. So for many, buying one represents an excellent automotive investment.