Mazda RX-7 Concept

RX-7 fans could be rewarded for their patience at this years Tokyo Motor Show.

With the RX-8 having sole responsibility for carrying on the rotary engine DNA in the Mazda lineup, it’s been wearing some rather large shoes left behind by the FD3S RX-7 since 2003 (there’s a pun in there somewhere). Its four door 2+2 layout, although a brilliant design, leaves the real sports car enthusiasts wanting something a little more impractical like a real sports car should. The NA 13B-MSP rotary engine doesn’t quite move the RX-8 like the twin turbo RX-7 forefather did either. That’s where the new RX-7 Concept comes in.

The styling of the new RX-7 concept draws heavily on the Mazda Kabura Concept first shown in January 2006, but with a 2 seater layout and larger overall proportions which befit a flagship sports car. A turbocharged version of the Renesis 13B-MSP is expected to power the RX-7, all housed in a chassis and body reportedly much lighter than other rival sports cars. Mazda is very keen to revive its most prominent nameplate as other Japanese manufacturers are doing or planning to do in the near future.

Discuss this article here.

Text: Justin Karow

Image: Holiday Auto