I understand that Mazda addressed common FD engine reliability issues with changes made to the 1996 and 1999 model years.
Having read http://www.mazdarotaryclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=394&page=3 Third Gen Model Guide, http://www.rx7.net.nz/fd-jp-models.html , Autospeed\'s \'99-spec article http://autospeed.com/cms/title_Last-of-the-Line-RX7/A_111399/article.html , and Brian Long\'s book, as far as I can see the changes that might improve reliability are these:
Jan 1996
- \'Rats nest\' replaced by a less troublesome \'embedded\' design
- Hard Y-pipes changed to alloy
Jan 1999
- New front bumper provides better airflow to intercooler, engine, oil & brake cooling.
- Bigger radiator
- Boost gauge fitted as standard
- Revised oil metering (responding quicker to accelerator inputs)
Does the above seem accurate? Any other changes that might affect reliability?
I understand that the \'99-spec Type RB didn\'t get the power upgrade, and remained at 265hp on the original turbos and boost levels. Did it get the other changes?
Finally, has anyone retro-fitted any of the above mods to earlier cars, or made equivalent changes to improve reliability? How easy is it to retro-fit a \'99-spec front bumper and gain the ducting benefits? I guess a larger radiator is an easy change?
Thanks for all the help, I\'m keen to find a good FD with the best possible chance of avoiding engine problems. Obviously the \'ideal\' is to wait for another \'99 spec car to come up, but given their scarcity and high price, I\'m interested in alternatives.