NEW MAY BUILD THE NEW MAZDA RX7
Mazda has officially endorsed plans to build a rotary-powered RX-7.
With the Mazda RX-8 officially on sale in its major markets, Mazda is now turning to its next sports-car project. The company has officially endorsed plans to build a rotary-powered RX-7 replacement.
In the footsteps of the 1978 original, it will be a sleek, lightweight two-seater. Some platform, suspension and driveline elements will be borrowed from the RX-8 parts bin. Although expected to launch in 2006, a concept may be unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show next month.
An amped version of the Renesis RX-8 engine is likely to power the RX-7. With wider and stiffer rotor housings, a higher redline, and displacement out to about 1.6 litres, Mazda plans on output of around 300hp in the normally aspirated form. It appears there will be no turbocharged version. Fear not, though, as for the first time ever, Mazda is working on a supercharged rotary option for RX-7.
The production car, code-named J77, is likely to be shorter and wider than the RX-8. There may even be a cabriolet variant with a fabric or folding hard-top hood.
Designated trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners.