The Mazda RX-7 GT-X (FC) '90 stands as a significant chapter in the story of Japanese sports cars, celebrated for its unique rotary engine and dynamic handling characteristics. Falling under the second generation of RX-7s (internally known as the FC3S), the GT-X trim offered enhanced performance and comfort compared to its predecessors. Launched in the mid-1980s and continuing production through 1992, the FC RX-7 drew design inspiration from European rivals, with its smooth, rounded lines and pop-up headlights becoming hallmark design elements of the era.
What set the 1990 Mazda RX-7 GT-X apart was its 1.3-liter turbocharged rotary engine, a technological marvel that offered both lightness and exceptional power delivery. The turbocharged rotary (13B) produced up to 200 horsepower in Japanese specification, allowing the car to accelerate with an immediacy and vibrance that became a hallmark of the platform. The lightweight chassis and sophisticated independent suspension refined the RX-7’s reputation for superb handling balance, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
While not as widely embraced in international motorsport as its predecessor, the legendary SA/FB RX-7, the FC RX-7 nevertheless carved a niche in various racing series. It achieved huge popularity in the Japanese Touring Car Championship and was a common sight in grassroots motorsport and club events worldwide. In terms of sales, the RX-7 GT-X captured the imagination of car enthusiasts during the Japanese bubble economy, and it played a key role in cementing Mazda's reputation for affordable, well-engineered sports cars.
Today, the Mazda RX-7 GT-X (FC) '90 is revered by collectors, tuners, and sim-racers alike. Thanks to its appearance in video games like Gran Turismo 7, the FC RX-7 enjoys a renewed relevance, introducing new generations to the unique driving experience delivered by a turbocharged rotary engine. Its blend of style, performance, and innovation ensures the FC RX-7 remains a cornerstone of both automotive history and car culture.
