The 1998 Mazda RX-7 is a low-slung, rear-wheel-drive 2-door sports coupe built for drivers who prioritize sharp handling, quick steering response, and a distinctive rotary-engine character. It’s ideal for enthusiasts who want a lightweight performance car and don’t mind being proactive about maintenance. Depending on market, the RX-7 for this era is part of the third-generation FD (often called FD3S), known for its twin-turbocharged 13B rotary and iconic styling. In the used market, the 1998 RX-7 sits as a high-performance classic that rewards careful ownership but can be costly if neglected.

- Twin-rotor rotary performance: Most 1998 RX-7 models are associated with the 1.3L 13B-REW twin-turbo rotary, known for strong top-end power and a unique rev-happy feel compared to piston engines. - Rear-wheel drive, driver-focused balance: Lightweight chassis and near sports-car ideal proportions make it a standout for cornering and feedback, especially compared with heavier 1990s coupes. - Turbocharged acceleration potential: The sequential twin-turbo setup (primary then secondary) delivers a distinctive mid-to-high RPM surge; many cars are also popular platforms for tasteful reliability-focused upgrades. - 2+2 layout with hatch practicality: While rear seating is tight, the hatchback-style cargo area is more usable than many two-seat sports cars for weekend trips. - Strong enthusiast support: Extensive aftermarket and community knowledge for rotary maintenance, vacuum hose routing, cooling, and turbo control systems makes it easier to keep healthy—when serviced correctly.

Owners researching “1998 Mazda RX-7 reliability” should expect a car that can be dependable with the right care, but one that is less forgiving than typical piston-engine coupes. The most reported “1998 Mazda RX-7 problems” tend to fall into a few categories: 1) Low compression / engine wear (often 60,000–100,000+ miles, sooner if abused)