1992 Mazda RX-7 Version 1 Type RZ

300 cars were produced in the first special Rx7 version of the the Efini FD3s. Designated the "RZ", the Z was for Zero. The Zero Fighters of Japanese war time were inspirational during the development of the FD and were studied by Mazda engineers for their use of lightweight materials. This didnt help Japanese pilots as they were ripped to shreds by US bullets, but it helped the FD shed some unwanted kilos.

The RZ version went 30 kilograms lighter that your regular car by using kevlar racing bucket seats from the utimate seat manufacturer, Recaro. Combine this with the removal of rear seats in favour of light plastic storage and you are on your way to a bit more performance. Air-conditioning and Audio were optional with many customers chosing to leave them out in search of even less weight. Automatic was not an option either to keep the car as a drivers special.

Based on the type R, this version was not just an optionless car. Additions were the Bilstein Dampers with a much harder setting, and many reporters complained of the harsh ride in the cities. More contributing factors were probably due to the drivetrain and wheel / tyre package. Diff and Engine mounts were strengthened and the 4.3 diff was changed from 4.1 for better accelleration. Wheels were also finished in Gun Metallic paint and surrounded by Pirelli P Zero tyres, which I think were chosen by name only.

Brilliant black was the only colour chosen for the body which suits this car that had the hard edge styling of the deepest Japanese underground. With such a performance focus in this car a few extras could be found to aid the occupants as the driver tried to wring it's neck. Knee pads on the door and centre console for lateral support and a passenger footrest to brace your navigator, all contribute to the subtle list of changes to the RZ. A true collectible FD3s Efini Rx7.