The Ultimate Guide for Jake
Greetings, Jake! If you’re on this page, chances are you’re interested in purchasing an FD car. But before you make your purchase, it’s important to understand what you’re getting into. In this in-depth guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about FD cars for sale, including their advantages and disadvantages, specifications, and frequently asked questions. Let’s dive in!
Introduction
What are FD Cars?
FD cars are sports cars manufactured by Mazda from 1991 to 2002. The term “FD” refers to the third generation of Mazda’s RX-7 model, which is powered by a twin-turbocharged rotary engine. These cars are known for their sleek design, high performance, and innovative engineering. They gained popularity in the 1990s and have been a favorite among car enthusiasts ever since.
Why Buy an FD Car?
There are several reasons why someone might choose to buy an FD car. For one, they’re incredibly fun to drive. With their high-revving rotary engines and responsive handling, they offer a thrilling driving experience that’s hard to match. They’re also relatively rare, which adds to their appeal. And for those who are into modifying their cars, FDs offer a plethora of aftermarket parts and tuning options.
What to Consider Before Buying
While FD cars may be a dream for many car enthusiasts, they’re not without their downsides. One of the biggest things to consider is their maintenance requirements. Rotary engines can be finicky and require a lot of attention to keep them running smoothly. They also tend to be less fuel-efficient than traditional piston engines. Additionally, FDs are not as practical as other sports cars, with limited cargo space and seating capacity. And finally, because they’re relatively rare, finding parts and qualified mechanics can be a challenge.
The Cost of Ownership
Another thing to consider before buying an FD car is the cost of ownership. While the initial purchase price of these cars can be relatively low, the costs can quickly add up. Maintenance and repair costs can be high, and finding parts can be a challenge. Additionally, because these cars are highly sought after, insurance costs can be steep. It’s important to do your research and budget accordingly before making a purchase.
Where to Find FD Cars for Sale
If you’re interested in buying an FD car, there are several places to look. Online classifieds websites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace are good places to start. There are also forums and groups dedicated to RX-7 enthusiasts where you can find listings. And of course, you can always check with your local car dealerships and specialty shops to see if they have any FDs for sale.
What to Look for in a Used FD Car
When buying a used FD car, there are several things to look for to ensure you’re getting a good deal. First and foremost, you’ll want to inspect the engine and make sure it’s in good condition. Rotary engines can be finicky, so it’s important to have a qualified mechanic inspect it. You’ll also want to check for any signs of rust or body damage. And of course, you’ll want to take the car for a test drive to make sure it handles well and feels right.
The History of FD Cars
The RX-7 was first introduced in 1978 and quickly gained a following among car enthusiasts. The first generation (SA/FB) was produced from 1978 to 1985, and the second generation (FC) was produced from 1985 to 1991. The third and final generation (FD) was produced from 1991 to 2002. The FD was known for its sleek design, innovative engineering, and high performance. It was also one of the first cars to feature a sequential twin-turbocharged rotary engine.
Specifications
| Model Year | Engine | Horsepower | Torque |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1993-1995 | 13B-REW twin-turbocharged rotary engine | 255 hp @ 6,500 rpm | 217 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm |
| 1996-1998 | 13B-REW twin-turbocharged rotary engine | 255 hp @ 6,500 rpm | 217 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm |
| 1999-2002 | 13B-REW twin-turbocharged rotary engine | 276 hp @ 6,500 rpm | 231 lb-ft @ 5,000 rpm |
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
There are several advantages to owning an FD car. For one, they’re incredibly fun to drive. With their high-revving rotary engines and responsive handling, they offer a thrilling driving experience that’s hard to match. They’re also relatively rare, which adds to their appeal. And for those who are into modifying their cars, FDs offer a plethora of aftermarket parts and tuning options.
Another advantage of owning an FD car is their sleek design. These cars are known for their unique, futuristic look that has aged well over time. They’re also lightweight and nimble, making them great for carving up winding roads.
Disadvantages
While FD cars may be a dream for many car enthusiasts, they’re not without their downsides. One of the biggest things to consider is their maintenance requirements. Rotary engines can be finicky and require a lot of attention to keep them running smoothly. They also tend to be less fuel-efficient than traditional piston engines.
Additionally, FDs are not as practical as other sports cars, with limited cargo space and seating capacity. And finally, because they’re relatively rare, finding parts and qualified mechanics can be a challenge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between an FD and an FC?
The FD is the third and final generation of Mazda’s RX-7 model, while the FC is the second generation. The FD is known for its sleek design, high performance, and innovative engineering. It was also one of the first cars to feature a sequential twin-turbocharged rotary engine. The FC is similar in many ways but lacks some of the advanced features found on the FD.
Are FD cars reliable?
While rotary engines can be finicky and require a lot of maintenance, FD cars can be reliable if properly cared for. It’s important to find a qualified mechanic who is familiar with rotary engines and to stay on top of maintenance and repairs.
Do FD cars hold their value?
FD cars are relatively rare and highly sought after, which can help them hold their value over time. However, like any car, their value will depend on a variety of factors, including condition, mileage, and modifications.
Is it expensive to insure an FD car?
Insurance costs for FD cars can be high, especially if you’re a young or inexperienced driver. It’s important to get quotes from multiple insurance companies and to choose a policy that fits your budget and needs.
Can you daily drive an FD car?
While it’s possible to daily drive an FD car, it’s not the most practical choice. These cars have limited cargo space and seating capacity, and their maintenance requirements can be high. Additionally, rotary engines tend to be less fuel-efficient than traditional piston engines.
What’s the most common issue with FD cars?
One of the most common issues with FD cars is engine flooding. Rotary engines can flood if they’re not started or driven regularly, which can lead to hard starting and poor performance. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for starting and driving your car to avoid this issue.
What’s the best year for an FD car?
The best year for an FD car will depend on your personal preferences and needs. Generally speaking, the later models (1999-2002) are considered to be the most advanced and offer the highest performance. However, earlier models can still be a great choice and may be more affordable.
Can you turbocharge an FD car?
While FD cars come with twin-turbocharged rotary engines from the factory, it is possible to upgrade to a larger or single turbocharger for increased performance. However, it’s important to do your research and work with a qualified mechanic to ensure the upgrade is done properly.
What’s the top speed of an FD car?
The top speed of an FD car will depend on a variety of factors, including modifications and driving conditions. However, most stock FD cars have a top speed of around 155 mph.
Are FD cars rear-wheel drive?
Yes, all RX-7 models (including the FD) are rear-wheel drive.
What’s the fuel economy of an FD car?
The fuel economy of an FD car will depend on driving conditions and style, as well as the condition and maintenance of the engine. However, most stock FD cars get around 15-20 mpg in the city and 20-25 mpg on the highway.
Are FD cars expensive to maintain?
Rotary engines can be finicky and require a lot of attention to keep them running smoothly, so maintenance costs for FD cars can be high. Additionally, finding parts and qualified mechanics can be a challenge, which can add to the cost.
Do FD cars have airbags?
FD cars were produced before airbags became mandatory, so not all models come equipped with them. However, some later models do have airbags.
How much does an FD car weigh?
The weight of an FD car will depend on the year and model, as well as any modifications. Generally speaking, FD cars weigh between 2,700 and 3,100 pounds.
Can you drift an FD car?
Yes, FD cars are popular for drifting due to their lightweight, rear-wheel-drive setup and responsive handling.
Conclusion
So there you have it, Jake. Everything you need to know before buying an FD car. While these cars may not be the most practical choice, they offer a thrilling driving experience and are sure to turn heads wherever you go. Just be sure to do your research, budget accordingly, and find a qualified mechanic who is familiar with rotary engines. Happy driving!
Take Action Today!
If you’re ready to take the plunge and buy an FD car, start by doing your research and finding listings in your area. Take the time to inspect any potential purchases and have a qualified mechanic inspect the engine. And above all, budget accordingly and be prepared for the costs that come with owning a rotary-powered sports car.
Disclaimer
While FD cars can be a thrilling and rewarding ownership experience, they’re not without their risks. Rotary engines can be finicky and require a lot of maintenance, and finding qualified mechanics can be a challenge. Additionally, these cars are high-performance machines that require a certain level of skill and experience to operate safely. As with any car, it’s important to exercise caution and responsibility when driving an FD car.
