That looks like one of the higher-end models, with the 5-bolt wheels. I have a more basic 1988 and paid more than that, but it was a running car with about 150,000 miles. It has a stock Mazda security system, so it's possible the security system could be Mazda?

Alex Madsen wrote:

I have found a cheep RX-7 and I am hopping I could get some feed back from the list if it is worth buying and tips on what to look for.  It is a 1988 MAZDA RX-7 5 speed for $780. The catch is that it is not running at the moment. They claim that this is because of some after market security system they can to quite figure out. I do not think they have much experience with rx-7’s. They say they got it running once for inspection and emissions testing. It failed the Colorado emissions test and my guess they gave up on it after that. Fortunately NH where I will get it registered does not require an emissions test. The body is in good shape with only a few rust spots. The interior is not in very go shape and needs some work. The engine appears to be in ok shape, but it is hard to tell with out it running. The foam on the underside near the oil cooler was soaked with oil. I do not know where this is leaking from or how big a problem it is.

 

Any feedback on purchasing this car would be appreciated. It seems to me that if I cannot get it running I can trade it in or part it out for more than the perches price.  (Or take the engine for an aircraft)

Attached are pictures (bad) of the car and emissions paperwork. I hope to get down there with a real camera soon.

 

Alex Madsen