Time Attack: 100-Year-Old Rotary Tech Powers Modern RX-7 Race Build
A meticulous blend of classic engineering and modern performance defines Chris Johnston's time-attack Mazda RX-7 FD3S, showcasing the timeless appeal of rotary-powered excellence.
Yellow RX-7 on road
The build maintains the original 13B-REW rotary engine, upgraded by Eccentric Motorsports with half-bridge porting and balanced components rated to 10,000 rpm. Power delivery comes from a single BorgWarner EFR 8374 turbocharger, replacing the factory sequential setup for improved reliability and control.
Mazda RX-7 engine bay
Key Performance Modifications:
- Custom PWR intercooler with titanium piping
- Dual Injector Dynamics injectors (1000cc primary, 2000cc secondary)
- Triple Walbro 400 fuel pumps
- Haltech Elite 1500 ECU
- Custom cooling system with PWR radiator and dual Setrab oil coolers
Interior view of RX7 race car
Yellow RX-7 with rear wing
The drivetrain features a Japanese-market transmission with RX-8 4.44 final drive and KAAZ 1.5-way LSD. Wheels are 18x10.5 CE28 Club Racers (rear) and CE28Ns (front), wrapped in 275/35-18 performance tires.
Braking comes from Project Mu 4-piston front calipers and Spirit R rear calipers, with 355mm front and 314mm rear two-piece rotors. Safety equipment includes a 945 Garage ten-point roll cage, racing seats, and Takata six-point harnesses.
Yellow Mazda RX7 driving fast
The exterior maintains period-correct modifications with RE Amemiya and R Magic components, finished in Mazda Sunburst Yellow PPG paint applied by Johnston himself. Fresh from its 2021 SEMA debut, this RX-7 now actively competes in time attack events.
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