Mazda RX-7 SA & FB
The first-generation RX-7 brought the unique Wankel rotary engine to a lightweight, balanced sports car chassis. It's an accessible classic Japanese sports car, but values for clean, original examples like the GSL-SE are rising quickly.
Mazda RX-7 SA & FB sold for a median of $11,250 over the last 12 months, based on 39 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $9,250 and $16,799. 838 currently for sale.
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Mazda RX-7 SA & FB prices by year
| Year | Median (3 yrs) | Middle 50% | Sales (3 yrs) | For sale now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1978 | – | – | 0 | 15 |
| 1979 | $11k | $8.1k–$14k | 13 | 102 |
| 1980 | $13k | $11k–$22k | 14 | 53 |
| 1981 | $7k | $6.5k–$15k | 9 | 36 |
| 1982 | $14k | $9.8k–$17k | 11 | 71 |
| 1983 | $10k | $8.5k–$14k | 21 | 131 |
| 1984 | $16k | $13k–$19k | 19 | 154 |
| 1985 | $13k | $10k–$20k | 44 | 255 |
Auction sales in the last 3 years; prices leave out salvage and other branded titles.
Listings
The first-generation Mazda RX-7 (SA and FB series) debuted in 1978 as a lightweight, affordable sports car powered by the unique Wankel rotary engine. It offered a compelling alternative to cars like the Datsun Z and Porsche 924, combining sharp handling, a low curb weight, and a high-revving engine into an exciting package. The initial SA series (1979-1980) featured simple steel bumpers, while the updated FB series (1981-1985) introduced integrated plastic bumpers, a revised interior, and eventually the more powerful, fuel-injected 13B engine in the 1984-1985 GSL-SE model.
Collectors are drawn to the RX-7 for its pure, analog driving experience and its distinctive rotary engine. The car's excellent weight distribution, around 50/50, makes it a joy on winding roads. The GSL-SE is the most sought-after model for its larger engine, four-wheel disc brakes, and limited-slip differential. Because many were modified, raced, or simply rusted away, finding a clean, original example has become increasingly difficult, driving values for top-condition cars upward.
The market for the first-gen RX-7 is broad, reflecting the wide range of conditions they're found in today. While tired projects can still be found for a few thousand dollars, low-mileage original cars, especially GSL-SE models, now trade for significant sums. The average sale price sits around $13,400, but exceptional, concours-quality examples or professionally prepared race cars have pushed the top of the market past the $100,000 mark, showing strong growth for the best-of-the-best.
Buying Tips
- Perform a rotary-specific compression test. Low or uneven compression across the rotor faces can indicate worn apex seals, a costly repair.
- Check for rust in the rocker panels, wheel arches, floor pans, and below the storage bins behind the seats. Also inspect the area under the battery tray for corrosion from acid leaks.
- Rotary engines naturally consume a small amount of oil. Ask for service history and check for excessive oil leaks from the oil cooler lines or a malfunctioning oil metering pump (OMP).
- The Nikki four-barrel carburetor on 12A models can be complex. Check for a steady idle and smooth acceleration without hesitation or bogging.
- On GSL-SE models, verify the electronic fuel injection system is functioning correctly and listen for noise from the limited-slip differential.
Prices range from as low as $2,000 for projects to a high of $117,000 for pristine, low-mileage examples or documented race cars.
2,156 Mazda RX-7 SA & FB vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 838 currently live.
Data sourced from auction results and dealer and private listings, including Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, Mecum, RM Sotheby’s and eBay Motors. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Mazda RX-7 SA & FB cost?
Over the last 12 months, Mazda RX-7 SA & FB sold for a median of $11,250 across 39 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $9,250 and $16,799. There are 838 currently for sale.
How many Mazda RX-7 SA & FB listings are for sale right now?
There are 838 Mazda RX-7 SA & FB listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.