Mazda RX-7 is a Vankel rotary front engine powered, rear-wheel drive sports car from Japan. It was manufactured from the mid-1970s to the early 2000s over three generations. The third generation was produced for around 10 years and is referred to as FD or FD3S for Japan. One of the highlights was the sequential twin turbocharger system, where the first turbo provided low-end boost at just under 2000 RPM and the second one took care of mid to high RPMS. Very interesting setup indeed as it allowed for a semi-linear acceleration throughout.

The new casting Solido Mazda RX-7 Type RS FD3S models produced in 1/18th scale are the cars which I will be taking a look at today. These models are packaged in new Solido 1:18th scale presentation box where models are now mounted onto a black base. There is a plastic frame around both sides and back to keep things sturdy, and see though plastic window is now larger for better views of the model inside. A clear plastic ribbon keeps doors closed and pop-up lights are secured with a small strip of clear tape. I recommend peeling it off very slowly and starting from the die-cast body side rather than plastic pop-up lights to minimize leaving any glue residue.

Looking at both models, I admit it is always exciting to have more than one colour to choose from. The red example comes with non-metallic paint, matched with Kerscher rims – these used to be quite popular in the 1990s and are very reminiscent of that time. The green one on the other hand utilizes metallic paint paired with original Mazda rims – this is my personal favourite.

The main body shell is crafted in die-cast metal, with a plastic rear spoiler and pop-up headlights which scream the 1990s to me. I am happy to report they are functional and both models can be displayed with them in the up or down positions. To assist with this operation, there is a large level under the car which slides back and forth. My green example required a little force to flip the switch, whereas on the red one, this operation was a lot smoother. Regardless of how much effort is required, I am absolutely satisfied as I like to display my models with the lights in the open position. One item to note here, on both models there is a rough plastic point around the middle of all pop-up light covers which should have been sanded down or smoothened out.

Opening both doors enables interior access and that concludes opening parts. This is of course in line with their current offerings in this scale. Paint on both models is applied evenly and I do not see any obvious signs of paint over-spray. Door shut lines are on point, windows on both doors fill their frames well and will protect dust from entering inside. Inside, both interiors are predominantly all black, with the only addition of colour on gauge clusters – this is true to the original. Overall interior finish is acceptable for a budget model.

At the front, both wear RX-7 license plates however they are unique as if they belonged to different owners. I relish the look of the lights in the upward position. Lenses on all other lights including fog lights are acceptable – however, there is room for more refinement with mounting points. The lower aero lip and Mazda logo on both bumpers complete the package. I would like to point out that on some of my photos of the red example, the front bumper paint looks mismatched – this is a lighting issue on my part as in reality looks well matched.

At the back, both models look very decent. I did notice that the rear light cover over round lenses is darker on the red example and lighter on the green one. I personally prefer it lighter as you can see more detail of lights behind it. I do like the exhaust tips – they show good depth and are painted black inside. Mazda RX-7 logos, Mazda emblem and rear spoiler complete the look.

Moving on to rims and tires – in my opinion, both models are equipped with good-looking rims. Execution is in line with all budget models, showing discs and calipers. Tires show thread, however, tire branding is missing.

To sum things up, l think these are very capable budget 1:18th scale models from Solido. Definitely great entry-level models and I do applaud Solido for giving us a variety of specs. Japanese cars from that era have quite the following and I think these models will be welcomed. Solido continues to offer us a great blend of affordability and choice of miniature cars from all over the world. Keep them coming