Three Owner Survivor: 1983 Mazda RX-7 – Sold?

October 31, 2021 Update – We just confirmed the listing for this “Classifind” expired, so with no replacement found we’re assuming this ride “Sold?” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

October 13, 2021 Update – The private seller just lowered their asking price further from their first reduction to $12,500 to a new ask of $10,095.

September 27, 2021 Update – the private seller just lowered their asking price by $1,000 from $13,500 to $12,500.

If you fancy a starter classic that seems likely to appreciate, the first-generation Mazda RX-7 is a good place to start. With sharp looks and a novel powerplant, the RX-7 has the right ingredients to be a sure-fire gainer in the collector car marketplace. This 1983 model was originally listed in September 2021 on Craigslist in the Hudson Valley region of New York State and is said to be a California car with just three owners and an asking price of $13,500.   Comparing this price against the Hagerty Insurance Online Valuation Tool confirms this private seller has priced his RX-7 in a sweet spot, as an “Excellent” car is valued at $21,100 and a “Good” condition model is worth $10,600.

The RX-7 has been an affordable classic for some time. The reasons for this are not obvious, outside of the fact that the Japanese sports cars always seem to lag behind their European counterparts. In the case of cars that slide all the way down the value curve, they are often discarded by the time they reach their third owners after a costly repair or body rot (or both) proves too much for a weak-willed commitment. The RX-7 these days is no longer a throwaway vehicle, but the third generation FD chassis cars have been the leaders in the pricing books for Mazda’s predominant sports car. Still, the first-generation models (like seemingly every initial run of a sports model) are lighter, lither, and simpler to own, and the FB cars fit that mold to a T.

In this MotorWeek Retro Review segment posted on their YouTube Channel, the TV show compares the 1983 Mazda RX-7 against the Porsche 944:

The seller claims that his RX-7 has been pampered since new, and previously resided in California before coming to New York. Curiously, the seller notes there is a Hollywood ownership connection, but you’ll only get the scoop if you buy the car. The RX-7 looks sharp in red with a black interior and period-correct window louvers mounted on the rear glass. The RX-7 remains very close to stock condition with the exception of a desirable Racing Beat header, right down to the factory radio with equalizer and working air conditioning. More importantly, it’s rust-free and has under 100,000 miles and comes with a clean title. The tires and exhaust system were recently replaced, so this specimen seems like the kind of RX-7 you can simply enjoy without being afraid to add a few thousand miles if desired. Good luck with the purchase if you bring this clean rotary-powered Mazda home.

Here’s the seller’s description:

“This is a first-generation RX-7 with only 93,167 miles and three owners since new. Originally a California car, and stored (covered) in a heated garage since it came to New York. Extensive records dating back to 1983, which also includes the original owner’s manual, warranty booklet, etc. The vehicle has an interesting Hollywood connection, which will be shared with the future owner.

This RX-7 runs and drives great. Recent tires and exhaust (stainless steel Racing Beat header). Factory A/C, 5-speed manual transmission, Factory AM/FM-Casette Player with factory equalizer and power antennae. Power antennae and power pop-up headlights function as they should.

This is a very clean and rust-free RX-7, that has been maintained and cared for.

Registered, insured, and recently inspected. Clean title in my name.

Clear “AutoCheck” Report (similar to “CarFax”). The AutoCheck Rating shows no accidents, no odometer issues, title issues, no flood damage, hail damage, etc..

If you are looking for a clean and original RX-7, this is the one you want, and if you know the current RX-7 market, you will know that a very clean rust freee, original and unmolested RX-7 is getting harder and harder to find, or if you do find one, you will likely be paying $20,000, or more.“

Do you have a Mazda RX-7 story you’d like to share?  Comment below and let us know!