The third-generation Mazda RX-7 is one of the all-time great sports cars. It was sold for only three years in the United States—from 1993 to 1995. So the combination of limited supply and strong enthusiast demand makes this generation hard to obtain (and a right-side steering RX-7 worth a second look). Prices have soared in recent years, especially for the sporty R Package trim levels.
Most were driven hard, and some owners didn’t take proper care of the turbocharged rotary engine. And customizers also grabbed units from the dwindling supply.
However, if you don’t mind the driving from the “passenger seat,” you might find a Mazda RX-7 with the steering wheel on the right, built in Japan, where it was sold until 2002. In fact, there’s one for sale on eBay right now.
Handling and Looks
Known by its FD3S chassis code, the third-generation RX-7 marked the pinnacle of rotary engine development. This right-side driving RX-7 uses a sequential twin-turbo design. The result is the most powerful street-legal rotary engine ever produced by Mazda—the only carmaker in the world to master the piston-less technology.
That would be enough to secure the RX-7’s place in the pantheon of automotive legends. But the FD wrapped that miraculous engine in an ultra-lightweight package with mind-blowing handling and stunning looks. Some enthusiasts believe it’s the most beautiful car Japan ever built. (We’ll save a rundown of the RX-7’s storied motorsports history for another day.)
A Bathurst Edition?
Mazda stopped selling the RX-7 in the US in 1995. The American variant was killed off by an unfavorable yen-to-dollar exchange rate and the dawn of the SUV craze. However, development continued in Japan, with increased power and further refinements to the suspension, cooling, and brakes. Every six months or so, Mazda introduced incremental advancements or limited editions.
The car for sale on eBay appears to be a low-mileage and well-maintained example—at 41,500 miles. However, the listing raises a few questions.
For example, the car is billed as a 1995 RX-7 Type RB Bathurst. Mazda introduced the Bathurst trim levels as limited-edition cars to commemorate the RX-7’s three consecutive wins at Australia’s famed Bathurst 12-Hour endurance race. Over the years, the automaker produced several limited runs of Bathurst trims. Curiously, the Type RB Bathurst wasn’t introduced until 1996.
Or Perhaps a Bathurst X
Given the older style spoiler and front lip, it’s more likely that this car is a 1995 Type R Bathurst X. That limited edition of 777 units could be had with a red interior and Momo steering wheel.
There are no exterior badges to solve the mystery. Perhaps the car was repainted. Regardless, the Bathurst X’s gunmetal OEM wheels are no longer with the car. That’s a pity, but the current wheels are period-correct Work Equips. Moreover, the car is modified with choice parts like an HKS intercooler pipe and Cusco strut tower brace.
Shop now for Work Equips wheels
Collectors strictly seeking a confirmed special-edition status model will want to confirm this car’s trim details. But if your goal is to own and drive one of the world’s most legendary sports cars, this low-mileage right-side steering RX-7 would be a thrill to experience.
