This lot will be auctioned via Iconic Auctioneers, Online Auction - 11th September on Thursday the 11th of September. Background: Mazda unveiled the third generation RX-7 in October 1991, introducing a sharper, more aerodynamic body that set it apart from its predecessors. Known internally as the FD, with chassis codes FD3S for Japan and JM1FD for North America, the car was the product of an in-house design competition held across Mazda’s four global studios in Hiroshima, Yokohama, Irvine in California and Europe. The winning proposal came from Mazda’s Irvine Design Centre, created by Taiwanese automotive artist Wu-huang Chin, who had also contributed to the design of the MX-5 Miata. He worked alongside Tom Matano to refine the concept. The interior however, was drawn from Hiroshima’s proposal and it was Mazda’s chief designer Yoichi Sato who oversaw the transformation of the final design into production reality. The RX-7’s development culminated with the Series 8 models, which were sold exclusively in Japan. These cars received notable upgrades, including more efficient turbochargers on certain variants. The flagship Type RS stood out with Bilstein suspension, 17" wheels as standard and a kerb weight reduced to 1,280kg. Performance was sharpened further with a freer-flowing exhaust, upgraded turbochargers featuring abradable compressor seals and larger brake rotors front and rear. The Type RS was also fitted with a shorter 4.30 final drive ratio, cutting acceleration times significantly. At the same time, Mazda revised the gearbox, lengthening fifth gear to lower engine speeds during cruising and improve fuel efficiency. These refinements ensured the final evolution of the RX-7 remained true to its reputation as a lightweight, agile and highly focused sports car. The Car: This car rolled off the production line in 1999, finished in its current colour combination of Dark Silver over black fabric and lived its life in Japan living in Osaka with only a single owner who was a Mazda member, resulting in full service history from 2002-2024, when the car was imported into the UK by its current owner. Having covered just over 118,000km, this example remains in exceptional condition. With a similar condition to a car that has covered half the milage. Upon arriving in the car was sent to Torque GT to be compression tested with Rotor 1 : 117 116 116 psiRotor 2 : 119 116 119 psi respectively. While at Torque GT the car also received the following upon landing on our shores. -Motul 4000 10w-30 semi synthetic engine oil-Mazda oil filter-SuperPro rear toe arm outer bushing kit-Mazda rear control arm pillow ball bush x2-Mazda front left and right drop links-Mazda solenoid valve-Mazda three-way valve-Sigma S30 cat 1 alarm system While in the UK the car has been dry-stored and in a car cocoon, helping to preserve the cars condition. All the while the current vendor had the whole underside cleaned on a biweekly basis. As a result, the car remains in an astonishing condition throughout. The exterior shows almost no signs of use, bar three small marks. Two on the front bumper and one on the bonnet. The interior continues this theme, with little to know signs of wear in the high traffic areas. Mainly the drivers seat bolster, steering wheel and gear knob. Japanese plastics from the 1990s are notorious for cracking and discolouring, the plastics in this car remain in an almost new condition, with the upmost care given to them over the years to maintain this standard. While remaining in a near factory specification, a few choice modifications have been made to enhance this RX7’s driving experience. HKS SQV4 BOV-Greddy airinx drop in panel filter-Greddy magnetic sump plug-Dixcel SD TYPE discs 314mm F-R-Project Mu TYPE HC pads F-R-Optional Mazda red adjustable brace, original included-OEM Mazda clear side indicators-OEM Mazda front spats/mud guards-Full fast road alignment at Grip lab-Shifter fully rebuilt with OEM Mazda parts There are not many Japanese cars that find themselves being lusted over quite as much at the FD RX7. This example of the RS could be described as best of breed and would be pride of place in any Japanese Collection. Location: Warwickshire Seller: Private Photography: Professional