I recently discovered photos of my high school car, an ’87 rx7, from way back in 1991.

Just Found Old Photos of My First Car (87 RX7) from High School Way Back in 1991

As one of the most popular sports cars in the 1980s, the 1987 RX7 was considered a dream car for many teenagers. In 1991, the RX7 was already five years old, but it still possessed a certain aura of mystique that made it irresistible to those who could afford it.

For many high schoolers in the early 1990s, owning an RX7 was a ticket to popularity, even if it was just for the weekend. With its sleek design, high-performance engine and precision handling, it was not only a joy to own and drive, but also the subject of many conversations and envious looks.

When I recently stumbled upon some old photos of my first car from high school, an 87 RX7, it brought back a flood of memories. From the thrill of getting behind the wheel for the first time to the countless summer nights cruising with friends, the RX7 has a special place in my heart.

In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore the history of the RX7, its design and performance features, as well as its cultural significance to a generation of enthusiasts.

A Brief History of the RX7

Mazda launched the first generation of the RX7 in 1978. Its design was inspired by the Lotus Esprit, and it quickly gained popularity for its unique rotary engine, which produced more power while being smaller and lighter than a traditional piston engine.

The second-generation RX7 debuted in 1986, and it was an instant success. The new model featured a more streamlined design, pop-up headlights and a rear spoiler. With 146 horsepower, it could reach a top speed of 137 mph.

The RX7 continued to evolve throughout the 1990s, but in 2002, Mazda discontinued production due to stricter emissions standards and declining sales.

Design and Performance Features of the 87 RX7

The 1987 RX7 was a sleek, two-door coupe with a distinctive design that set it apart from other sports cars of its time. Here are some of its key design features:

• Pop-up headlights: The rounded lights gave the car a futuristic look, and they retracted into the body when not in use.

• Rear spoiler: The spoiler improved the car’s aerodynamics and gave it a sporty, racing-inspired look.

• Low profile: The RX7 sat low to the ground, which gave it a sporty, aggressive stance.

• Rotary engine: The RX7’s rotary engine was its most notable feature. It produced 146 horsepower and could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 7.3 seconds.

In addition to its unique design, the RX7 also boasted impressive performance features. Here are a few:

• Rear-wheel drive: The RX7’s rear-wheel drive gave it excellent handling and a more balanced weight distribution.

• Independent suspension: The car’s independent suspension allowed for better control and handling while driving.

• Disc brakes: The RX7 had four-wheel disc brakes for improved stopping power and enhanced safety.

Cultural Significance of the RX7

The RX7 was more than just a car to many people. It was a symbol of freedom, independence, and youth culture. For teenagers in the 1980s and 1990s, owning an RX7 was a status symbol and a way to express themselves.

The car was featured in popular movies and TV shows, such as The Fast and the Furious, and it became a fixture in car culture. Groups of RX7 enthusiasts would gather at meets and shows to share their love of the car and swap stories.

However, the RX7 was also the subject of controversy. Its rotary engine was notorious for consuming oil and having reliability issues, which led some critics to label it a “death trap.”

Despite its flaws, the RX7 remains an important part of car culture and a beloved symbol of a bygone era.

Conclusion

The 1987 RX7 was a special car that captured the hearts of a generation of teenagers. Its unique design, impressive performance, and cultural significance made it more than just a car; it was a symbol of youth, freedom, and individuality.

While owning an RX7 may be out of reach for many today, the memories of cruising down the highway, listening to the sound of its engine and feeling the wind in your hair, remain a cherished part of the past.

Sources:

1. “The History of the Mazda RX-7” Car and Driver https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a32109644/history-of-the-mazda-rx7/

2. “The Mazda RX7: A Brief History” Hotcars https://www.hotcars.com/mazda-rx7-history/

3. “The 1987 Mazda RX-7” Top Speed https://www.topspeed.com/cars/mazda/1987-mazda-rx7-ar12369.html

4. “The Cultural Significance of the Mazda RX7” Dmedina Photography https://www.dmedina.photography/blog/the-cultural-significance-of-the-mazda-rx7

5. “Mazda RX7: The Death-Trap that Could Kill You” Drive Tribe https://drivetribe.com/p/mazda-rx7-the-death-trap-that-could-LXaX0zs0THGFWeYrwn8MwQ?iid=X1BjGzjuTjOfdch-ZWJ9AQ]