How to Buy a Used Mazda RX7

The Mazda RX7 is classic sports car that was popular in the 1980s and early 1990s. The Mazda RX7 has an odd rotary engine that isn't used on many cars today, but the engine can be easily taken apart. Because Mazda stopped importing the car to the United States in 1995, you can only buy used RX7s. The RX7 is still very popular, so be prepared to pay a handsome price for this car.

  • Decide what you want. Mazda sold three generations of the RX7 in the United States. The last generation was the most expensive. Different RX7s have different horsepower strengths. Some RX-7s come with four seats, but most only have two.

  • Go to a Mazda dealer. Dealers often have used car lots for their trade-ins, and they may have an RX7. A Mazda dealer can also tell you the ins and outs of the car.

  • Check auto magazines like "Auto Trader." These magazines list used cars for sale by owners, and they often feature classic sports cars like the RX7. "Auto Trader" is available in many drugstores and supermarkets.

  • Go to specialty sports car websites (see Resources) to find used RX7s.

  • Take the car for a test drive. Buying any car requires a thorough test drive. Don't just drive the car for fun--drive in traffic to see how it handles on a routine basis.

  • Consider your daily drive. The Mazda RX7s, especially the later models, are fun rides, but not necessarily great for everyday commutes. The rotary engine is not very fuel efficient, either.

  • Find a mechanic who is willing to work on these cars with their specialty engines. Also have the mechanic investigate the car for trouble before you make the final decision.