FB 1st Gen (1979 to 1985)

Produced from 1979 to 1985, the first-generation Mazda RX-7, commonly referred to by its SA22 or FB chassis codes, introduced Mazda’s lightweight, rotary-powered sports car formula to the world and quickly earned a reputation for balance, simplicity, and motorsport friendliness. Built as a two-seat liftback coupe, early Series 1 cars featured exposed steel bumpers, while later Series 2 and 3 models adopted lighter plastic-covered bumpers, with the range powered primarily by the 12A twin-rotor Wankel engine producing around 100 hp. The final Series 3 GSL-SE (1984–1985)—often called the “five-letter cars”—received the larger 13B rotary with approximately 135 hp, along with upgraded brakes and a revised wheel bolt pattern. Total first-generation RX-7 production exceeded approximately 470,000 units worldwide, making it a major commercial success. In the Australian market, FB RX-7s were officially sold and remain popular in historic motorsport and enthusiast circles, with values driven by series (GSL-SE premium), originality, rust-free condition, and drivetrain health, as clean early rotary cars become increasingly difficult to find.