Lot details
Registration No: G310DCF
Chassis No: JM2FC183200200838
Mot Expiry: Nov 2007

Introduced in 1985, the second generation Mazda RX-7 was the result of extensive customer clinic testing in Orange County, California. Conceived by project chief Akio Uchiyama as a 'civilised sports car', it was altogether more refined than its predecessor. Boasting a drag coefficient of just 0.29, its two-door monocoque bodyshell was equipped with all round independent suspension (MacPherson strut front, multi-link semi-trailing rear), passive rear-steer, four-wheel disc brakes and electrically assisted rack and pinion steering. Powered by Mazda's latest generation '13B' rotary twin, the use of pulsed fuel-injection and revised inlet plenum / tracts yielded noticeably more power and torque. Claiming the highest alloy content of any Mazda since the 1960 R360, the second generation car (known internally as P747) benefited from aluminium suspension arms, hubs, engine mounts and diff cover etc. A handsome design launched in 1987, the RX-7 Convertible featured an electrically powered hood, heated glass rear window and special wind deflector. Subtly reworked (along with the rest of the range) some two years later it gained circular tail lights, enlarged brake ducts, a lowered front air dam and more performance. Boosted to just over 200bhp, the RX-7 Turbo Convertible was reputedly capable of 0-60mph in just 6.5 seconds and over 140mph.
Finished in black with black leather upholstery, this particular example was reputedly sold new via Maidstone Mazda (Kent) to the comedienne Dawn French. Said to have covered 111,000 miles from new with "all service history by the suppliers", its impressive specification includes alloy wheels, five-speed manual transmission, electric windows and air-conditioning. A rare car with the potential bonus of celebrity provenance, it is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until November 2007.