As a car journalist, I spend my days writing about and reviewing other people’s builds – their visions, their stories. I analyze, critique, and celebrate automotive passion from the driver’s seat. But at some point, people started asking me, “what do you drive and build?” Although I'm fortunate enough to have several, one of them is a testament to what I build. That’s where this car comes in. My personal project is a first-generation Mazda RX-7, built with intention, respect for heritage, and a willingness to push boundaries. The heart of it is a street-ported 12A, reinforced with Goopy Performance 3mm apex seals and a fully balanced rotating assembly. It has Racing Beat headers and a custom titanium exhaust, made with Vibrant v-bands, vibrant resonators, and vibrant mufflers, and yes, it shoots massive rotary flames.
I’m the first to admit that this car is not fast. Dyno-proven, my daily driver makes three times the amount of horsepower and torque, but handling, noise and feel are the main focuses of the build. A WhiteLine strut tower brace stiffens up the chassis, while Ground Control lowering springs and adjustable KYB shocks keep the ride composed. A big spindle swap and Energy Suspension bushings tighten up steering feel, while Racing Beat anti-sway bars make sure the car stays flat when I’m pushing it through the corners.
Inside, it’s a mix of function, and style that are stuck in the 80’s. A Personal steering wheel, Recaro Trophy seats, and Tomei Duracon shift knob keep things driver focused. A JDM backseat conversion, Bride seat rails, and a hardwood trunk add character. Even the entertainment is sorted, with a double-din head unit—because sometimes, the right soundtrack makes the drive even better. Visually, the car blends period-correct aesthetics with one-of-one details. A Carbon Kevlar Mazda Factory Racing kit, custom front bumper, and Mazda Factory Racing wing give it a presence that demands a second look. The hand-polished aluminum trim and optional catalogue Plexi sunroof add touches of nostalgia, while a bespoke Gaslight livery design ensures the RX-7 stands apart. Sitting on extremely rare three-piece Compomotive CX500 wheels with magnesium faces (15x10 front, 15x12 rear), the stance is purposeful without being over the top.
I’ve driven lots of cars — some are faster, some are sharper, and some are technically “better” in objective ways. But this build isn’t about chasing numbers. It’s about the experience, the connection between man and machine, and the satisfaction of knowing that every part, every decision, every challenge was met with my own hands. It’s proof that I don’t just write about passion, I build it.
At the end of the day, being a true enthusiast isn’t about the most expensive parts or the highest horsepower figures. It’s about the willingness to create something that matters to you. And for me, this RX-7 is exactly that.
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