| Rotary Enhancements - Rotary Parts Buyers Guide When Dr. Felix Wankel created an engine that could produce big power while taking up the smallest space possible, who would have expected the tuning world to accept it with such open arms? Considering these two-stroke rotary engines have the ability to spin at a remarkable rate, producing smooth power across the powerband, it's a wonder no other manufacturer besides Mazda jumped at the opportunity to exploit this technology. Luckily, plenty of aftermarket manufacturers have jumped on board the rotary wagon, which will help you extort even more power from your already potent rotary.
A'PEXi
If you're looking for something a bit different, which is a hard nowadays, check out the N1 Dual exhaust from A'PEXi. It's got the same power delivery as the standard N1, but with improved midrange response. Plus, it sounds kick ass.
Info: 714/685-5700, www.apexi.com
HKS
If you've been into the import scene for more than five minutes, you're probably familiar with the HKS product line. This Japanese manufacturer paved the way for many other companies like it with parts such as this carbon-titanium exhaust. Isn't it a beauty? If it doesn't give you and your car a hard-on, what will?
Info: 310/491-3300, www.hksusa.com
Auto Meter
One might wonder as to why a buyer's guide geared toward extracting extra power from a rotary engine includes an Auto Meter tachometer. However, there is a method to our madness. Simply put, Auto Meter is the only company that sells a tach that reads up to and over 11,000 rpm, and everyone knows a rotory engine makes its power at extremely high rpms.
Info: 815/895-8141, www.auto meter.com
JIC
Feeling like your car's diet doesn't consist of enough titanium? JIC will hook you up with enough of it to not only lighten your rotary-powered vehicle, but add the glitz and glamour as well. Oh, and this exhaust makes mad power and attracts loads of women, which is all that really matters nowadays.
Info: 562/803-6122, www.jic-magic.com
Blitz
Not only does the RX-7 come with an undersized intercooler, it's placed next to the engine with no direct path for incoming air to travel. Blitz' solution is its LM Intercooler, a full tube and fin design built to hold high boost with no questions asked. Comes complete with all pipes and fasteners for easy installation.
Info: 626/839-8350, www.blitz-na.com
Greddy
Is your factory RX-7 turbo coming on a little soft these days? GReddy sells a T78 and a T88 turbo upgrade, both ready to propel your FD into the horizon at ballistic speeds. If that doesn't sound appealing to you, sell you car to someone who cares, 'cause this upgrade screws the pooch, whatever that means.
Info: 949/588-8300, www.greddy.com
K&N
Got an RX-8 but having trouble finding an intake system you can trust to make power and pass emissions? K&N has a Typhoon intake ready to suit your needs, and down the road when the smog guy shakes his finger at your intake, you can flip him the bird and show him your OBD C.A.R.B. Certification. That'll make the day a lot easier for you and your car.
Info: www.knfilters.com
Mazdatrix
If you want factory parts without the factory hassle or price, turn to Mazdatrix. This tricky bunch sells every part available for your RX-7 or RX-8. If they don't have it, they'll probably find it for you. Take these fine 13B rotors for example; brand-new, ready to be spun in your Seven.
Info: 562/426-7960, www.mazdatrix.com
Pettit Racing
Brought to you by those who build three rotor supercars, this catalytic converter replacement is just what your aging RX-7 needs to once again growl properly. Not just a pipe with a cat welded onto it, this center pipe has been tried and tested on some of this country's most powerful rotary street cars.
Info: 954/563-6064, www.pettitracing.com
Racing Beat
As one of the premier names in rotary part slangin', Racing Beat was eager to start production of its full exhaust system for the new RX-8. This exhaust adds horsepower, improves sound, and looks way better than the factory spec system. It also doubles as an emergency vanity mirror if you feel the need for a last-minute hair touchup.
Info: 714/779-8677, www.racingbeat.com
XS Engineering
Looking to extract maximum power from your FD motor? XS Engineering spent countless hours on its dyno developing this turbo kit so you don't have to fuss around. Not only does XS Engineering have the capacity to sell you this kit, it can also help alleviate the stress involved with owning a bright-green car.
Info: 714/698-8300, www.xs-engineering.com
Mazdaspeed
Want to add real horsepower to your car without ticking off the warranty department? This flywheel offered for your RX-8 directly from Mazda's motorsports division, Mazdaspeed, will make the free-revving rotary rev even faster, which makes it easier to enjoy that 9,000rpm song.
Info: 800/435-2508, www.mazdamotorsports.com