FYI: Tani-san’s ultra-wide 1996 FD3S Mazda RX-7 Type RB is turning heads in the streets of Japan with its striking GT300-inspired design and immense customization work.
Tani-san’s Ultra-Wide RX-7: A GT Race Car for the Streets
As we strolled past the gates of an ancient temple, a local resident warned us to be cautious of the next incoming bus. He wasn’t exaggerating. The 1996 FD3S Mazda RX-7 Type RB belonging to Tani-san was parked so wide that it protruded well onto the road. After exchanging pleasantries and snapping a quick photo, we maneuvered back onto the main road. Despite its daunting 2.2-meter-wide customized body kit, the car handled the turn with ease, though Tani quickly found himself navigating congested traffic—a familiar scene in the bustling streets of Tokyo.
Navigating Japan’s Narrow Roads
Japan’s narrow streets, filled with utility poles, pedestrians, and children, are not exactly conducive to a super-wide car like Tani’s RX-7. Making U-turns in this machine is a challenge, but the vehicle’s striking appearance often clears a path, with other drivers eagerly moving aside once they see the imposing figure of the RX-7 in their rearview mirrors.
A Masterclass in Customization
Inspired by the GT300 cars of the early 2000s, particularly the RE Amemiya entries, Tani spent two years meticulously crafting his dream GT race car for the street. Utilizing rental workshop space, he built an expansive body kit using TCP Magic and URAS bumpers as his foundation, then stretched and reshaped them almost beyond recognition.
The transformation included:
- Front Bumper: TCP Magic front bumper as the base, modified and hand-shaped.
- Rear Bumper: URAS rear bumper, extended and enhanced.
- Additional Parts: TCP Magic G-Face Type TT front fenders, diffusers, side skirts, RE Amemiya Sleek headlights, a carbon fiber bonnet, Car Shop Glow rear diffuser, and custom taillights.
- Wing Assembly: Components from Esprit, Car Shop Glow, and CarShop Lead to build a bespoke GT wing.
You can follow the build process on Tani’s Instagram to witness the extraordinary craftsmanship firsthand.
Final Touches and Professional Finishing
To achieve the flawless finish, Tani enlisted help from Ashiru Ito of A.BASE, a renowned body shop in Aichi Prefecture. The car was painted in a resplendent Lexus Nori Green Pearl, and fitted with 19×12-inch Work Meister L1 wheels both front and rear, which add a final touch of flair.
Sheer Power Under the Hood
The original 13B-REW engine is no slouch, producing an impressive 459PS. Deviating from the standard twin sequential turbo setup, Tani opted for a single large KKK K27 turbocharger, paired with a custom exhaust and a robust front-mounted intercooler. The A’PEXi Power-FC engine management system ensures precision-controlled firing orders, delivering smooth yet powerful performance.
Specifications include:
- Engine: Mazda 13B-REW, side port/street port, KKK K27 turbo, custom exhaust system, A’PEXi Power-FC engine management.
- Driveline: Factory 5-speed gearbox, upgraded clutch, LSD.
- Suspension and Brakes: Endless Zeal coilovers, D2 Racing 8-pot front brake kit.
- Wheels and Tires: 19×12" Work Meister L1 wheels, Toyo Proxes R888R 295/30ZR19 tires.
Driving Experience: A Test of Skill and Passion
Driving through the cluttered streets is a testament to Tani’s skill. The car’s stiffness, provided by Endless Zeal coilovers, offers a firm yet purposeful ride. Observing Tani navigate tight spaces and weave through traffic with precision rivals the dexterity of a seasoned truck driver.
The RX-7’s interior, though spacious in appearance, feels incredibly confined due to the extra foot of side skirt width. Squeezing into the bucket seats is a reminder of the car’s racing pedigree.
A Bright Future Ahead
This build is a beacon of what passion and creativity can yield, even for those in their 20s without extensive experience. Tani’s work has already opened doors; he is now honing his craft further at Bodyworks DB, a Porsche specialist shop in Yamanashi Prefecture. Clearly, his future in the automotive world looks promising.
For more exciting news from the automotive world, follow us on Twitter @automotivefyi and visit our website, Automotive.fyi.
Donald Smith
Editor of Automotive.fyi
