The Ultimate Guide to the 1979 Mazda RX-7: Rediscovering a Rotary Icon

The 1979 Mazda RX-7, the first generation of Mazda's legendary sports car, made its debut as a revolutionary force in the automotive industry. Its groundbreaking rotary engine, sleek design, and performance-oriented engineering captivated car enthusiasts worldwide. Join us on an in-depth exploration of this iconic vehicle, from its genesis to its enduring appeal.

Rotary Revolution: The Heart of the RX-7

The Wankel Rotary Engine:

At the heart of the 1979 RX-7 lay the revolutionary Wankel rotary engine. Unlike conventional piston engines, the rotary engine employed a triangular rotor that spun within an oval-shaped combustion chamber. This unique design eliminated reciprocating parts, resulting in a smoother, more compact, and lightweight powerplant.

Performance Advantages:

The rotary engine offered several performance advantages:

• High Power-to-Weight Ratio: The compact design of the rotary engine allowed for an exceptional power-to-weight ratio, enhancing acceleration and handling.
• Smooth Power Delivery: The continuous spinning motion of the rotor provided a smooth, linear power delivery throughout the rev range.
• High Rev Range: The lack of reciprocating parts allowed the rotary engine to rev higher than conventional engines, reaching up to 9,000 rpm in the 1979 RX-7.

Design and Engineering: Form Meets Function

Aerodynamic Silhouette:

The 1979 RX-7 showcased a sleek, aerodynamic silhouette that defied the boxy designs of the era. Its low-slung body and sloping hood reduced drag, contributing to its impressive performance.

Lightweight Construction:

To maximize performance and fuel efficiency, Mazda employed lightweight materials throughout the RX-7's construction. The body panels were made of thin steel, while the chassis and suspension components were fabricated from aluminum.

Chassis Dynamics:

The RX-7's handling and stability were enhanced by a sophisticated chassis design. The front suspension featured a MacPherson strut setup, while the rear employed a semi-trailing arm arrangement. The car's low center of gravity and balanced weight distribution further improved its cornering capabilities.

Interior: Sporty Simplicity

Driver-Focused Cockpit:

The interior of the 1979 RX-7 was designed with a driver-centric approach. The cockpit featured a wraparound dash, bucket seats, and a sporty steering wheel. The gauges and controls were logically arranged, providing the driver with instant access to vital information.

Comfortable Yet Compact:

Despite its compact dimensions, the RX-7 offered a surprisingly comfortable interior. The cabin was well-equipped with amenities, including air conditioning, power windows, and a cassette player.

Power and Performance

12A Rotary Engine:

The 1979 RX-7 was powered by the 12A rotary engine, a 1.1-liter unit that produced 105 horsepower and 105 ft-lbs of torque.

Acceleration and Speed:

• 0-60 mph: 8.8 seconds
• Top Speed: 118 mph

Fuel Economy: Balancing Performance and Efficiency

EPA Estimated MPG:

• City: 17 mpg
• Highway: 22 mpg

Reliability and Maintenance

Durability of the Rotary Engine:

The Wankel rotary engine has a reputation for durability. With proper care and maintenance, rotary engines can achieve high mileage, often exceeding 100,000 miles.

Maintenance Considerations:

• Apex Seals: The rotary engine's apex seals are critical components that seal the combustion chamber. They require regular inspection and replacement, especially in high-performance applications.
• Fuel Dilution: Rotary engines may experience fuel dilution due to the combustion process. This can result in decreased engine performance and increased emissions. Regular oil changes are essential to minimize fuel dilution.

Tips and Tricks for Rotary Engine Care

• Use High-Quality Oil: Rotary engines require synthetic oil specially formulated for their unique requirements.
• Avoid Over-Revving: Excess RPM can stress the apex seals and other engine components.
• Monitor Coolant Levels: Rotary engines consume coolant to lubricate the apex seals. Keep the coolant system properly filled.
• Carbon Buildup Prevention: Regularly drive the car at high RPM to prevent carbon buildup on the apex seals and exhaust ports.

Humorous Stories from RX-7 Owners

The Smell of Burning Oil:

One RX-7 owner recalls being pulled over by a police officer for excessive smoke coming from the exhaust. Upon inspection, the officer discovered that the smoke was actually the result of burning oil, a common characteristic of rotary engines.

The Unexpected Backfire:

Another owner recounts an incident where the car backfired violently after a hard acceleration. The backfire was so loud that it startled pedestrians and even caused a nearby dog to jump.

The Smokey Escape:

A third owner shares a story about a time when the car's apex seals failed, resulting in a thick cloud of smoke. The owner managed to drive the car to a nearby mechanic, leaving a trail of smoke behind him.

These humorous anecdotes highlight the quirks and challenges that come with owning a rotary-powered vehicle, but they also showcase the passionate bond that many owners have with their RX-7s.

Pros and Cons of the 1979 RX-7

Pros:

• Revolutionary rotary engine technology
• Sleek and aerodynamic design
• Lightweight construction
• Sporty handling
• Impressive performance for its era

Cons:

• Relatively low fuel economy
• Potential for apex seal failure
• Higher maintenance costs than conventional piston engines

Tables

Table 1: Performance Specifications

Table 2: Fuel Economy

Table 3: Dimensions

Conclusion: A Timeless Icon

The 1979 Mazda RX-7 was a groundbreaking vehicle that redefined the sports car landscape. Its innovative rotary engine, sleek design, and performance-oriented engineering made it an instant hit among enthusiasts. While its production ceased decades ago, the RX-7 remains an iconic symbol of Mazda's engineering prowess and the enduring appeal of rotary-powered vehicles.