The 1987 Mazda RX-7 is a two-door sports coupe that blends lightweight handling with a unique rotary-engine driving experience. This model year falls in the second-generation FC (introduced for 1986), offering a more refined chassis and a more modern interior than the earlier SA/FB cars while staying focused on performance. It’s ideal for enthusiasts who want sharp steering feel, balanced rear-wheel-drive dynamics, and a classic 1980s sports car that stands apart from piston-engine rivals. In today’s market, the 1987 RX-7 is often cross-shopped with period Japanese coupes and entry-level European sports cars, with value strongly tied to condition, maintenance history, and whether it’s naturally aspirated or turbocharged.

1) 1.3L rotary power (13B): Most 1987 RX-7 models use Mazda’s 13B rotary engine, known for smooth revving and compact packaging. Naturally aspirated versions prioritize responsiveness, while turbocharged models deliver a stronger midrange punch. 2) Available Turbo II performance: The RX-7 Turbo II is the headline trim for many shoppers, pairing the 13B turbo with sport-focused hardware for quicker acceleration and higher performance potential than the NA car. 3) Rear-wheel drive and balanced handling: The FC chassis is praised for predictable, neutral cornering, with a low center of gravity and communicative steering that make it feel lighter than many contemporaries. 4) Driver-focused cockpit and 1980s ergonomics: Supportive front seating, clear gauges, and a sporty seating position make it an engaging daily driver for those who fit comfortably in a compact coupe. 5) Strong aftermarket and parts ecosystem: Because the FC RX-7 remains popular in motorsports and tuning communities, owners benefit from solid support for maintenance items, cooling upgrades, ignition components, and suspension refreshes.

Shoppers researching 1987 Mazda RX-7 reliability should understand that these cars can be dependable when maintained correctly, but neglected examples can become expensive quickly. The rotary engine is sensitive to overheating, oiling, and vacuum/ignition health, so condition matters more than mileage alone. 1) Apex seal wear and low compression: One of the most discussed 1987 Mazda RX-7 problems is low compression from worn apex seals or generally tired rotor housings. Symptoms include hard starting (especially hot starts), weak power, and excessive fuel smell. This can show up anywhere from 80,000–120,000 miles depending on maintenance, driving habits, and past overheating. 2) Cooling system weakness leading to overheating: Radiators, thermostats, old hoses, and fans can degrade over time, and overheating is particularly risky on a rotary. Repeated overheating can accelerate internal wear and lead to coolant-related engine damage. Many owner complaints tie major engine issues back to a prior cooling failure. 3) Vacuum line and intake/boost leaks (especially turbo models): Aging rubber lines and brittle fittings cause rough idle, poor drivability, and inconsistent boost on Turbo II cars. These 1987 Mazda RX-7 common issues often present as hesitation, surging, or a “won’t build boost” complaint rather than a single obvious failure. 4) Ignition system wear and misfires: Coils, leading/trailing ignition components, plugs, and wires can cause misfires under load. Rotary engines are sensitive to ignition strength, and a weak spark can wash fuel into the exhaust, foul plugs, and make starting difficult.