FYI: A stunning showcase of ingenuity and performance, this FD3S Mazda RX-7 from Car Shop Glow embodies the spirit of Japanese automotive tuning in every curve and contour.
The FD3S RX-7, a name that echoes in the echelons of automotive greatness, has always been a target for tuning enthusiasts globally. In a spectacular twist of fate, Car Shop Glow, primarily known for its innovative LED solutions, has redefined this icon strictly for the race track. Originally profiled during the Battle Evome in February 2015, this RX-7 caught the eye with its bespoke bronze livery shimmering under the nascent light of dawn.
Evolution of Power and Style
Over the years, Hara-San from Car Shop Glow has transformed his once street-legal RX-7 into a Time Attack marvel, passionately driven through the infamous Tsukuba Circuit. The car is no typical tuner product, despite Car Shop Glow’s reputation for custom lighting. Instead, Hara has carved an unusual path, focusing on time attack racing, much to the delight of performance car enthusiasts.
Precision Engineering and Performance
Equipped with a custom Aragosta damper set and bushings meticulously bolted to the chassis, every ride in this RX-7 promises exhilarating performance. This is not just about bells and whistles; it’s methodical engineering at its finest. The Re Amemiya-designed body kit, augmented by Car Shop Glow’s wet carbon masterpieces, speaks volumes about the dedication to aerodynamics.
Aesthetic and Aerodynamics
The FD3S sports a modest yet effective visual upgrade with a central air intake, a strategically placed diffuser, and carbon vortex generators. These stunning additions not only enhance its aesthetic appeal but also underscore a commitment to functional design. Sculpted to perfection, the RX-7 integrates advanced components like a high-mounted carbon wing — a recent upgrade that speaks volumes of the continued evolution to handle those curves with surgical precision.
Rotaries and Rhythms
Under the hood lies a 13B rotary engine, refined with a Trust T88-34D turbocharger, pushing a mighty 530hp. Car enthusiasts are no strangers to the complexities of maintaining a rotary, yet through a partnership with Zestrace, a Chiba-based rotary specialist, every turn becomes a symphony of power and efficiency—a testament to the smooth yet thrilling ride that is every rotary loyalist’s dream.
Keeping Tradition Alive
While certain comforts such as a navigation system and a robust music setup remain, much of the interior has been stripped down or replaced with functional fixtures, like the custom roll cages strengthening both safety and structure. Though rooted in tradition, every modified inch of this RX-7 showcases the innovative spirit characteristic of Japanese tuning culture.
The Spirit of Time Attack
Despite its extensive modifications, the RX-7 retains a rich pedigree, marking its stance not just as a car but as a symbol within the time attack scene. This competitive atmosphere, predominantly grassroots, stands as a beacon to builders and tuners alike, eschewing mainstream commercialism to maintain the sport’s pure soul.
In conclusion, as the new generation of Mazda captures the streets, the FD3S RX-7 continues to captivate hearts, thanks largely to the dedication of enthusiasts like those at Car Shop Glow. This vehicle is more than just transportation; it’s a testament to enduring passion, an homage to the rotary engine’s legacy, and a beacon of what street-inspired engineering can achieve.
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Donald Smith, Editor at Automotive.fyi
