Mazda Savanna RX-7 FC3S showcases the second generation of Mazda’s iconic rotary-powered sports car. Building on the success of the original first generation, the FC3S represents a significant evolution in design and engineering. Its styling reminds me of a Porsche 944, which is actually not a bad thing, as for me, it was a good-looking front-engine alternative to the 911. Mazda RX-7’s exterior styling adopted smoother lines than its first-generation car, and kept the iconic pop-up, which made cars from that era look so exotic. The FCS3 also adopted a more modern independent rear suspension, and in turn improved the handling and stability of the car.

The heart of the Mazda RX-7 FC3S was made of a 1.3-litre, twin rotor turbocharged engine with an intercooler. This gave it a significant boost in power and torque when compared to the first-generation model. The lightweight nature of their rotary engine, a front-mid-engine layout, gave this car almost ideal 50:50 weight distribution. This translated into exceptional handling and a fun driving experience. This solidified its reputation not only on the street but also in the racing world, making it a popular choice for tuners. Today, the FC3S is celebrated as a key piece of Japanese automotive history with Mazda’s unique approach to engine design – making it an icon among JDM fans.

With an influx of opening and highly detailed diecast JDM models from other manufacturers, WhelArt has some big shoes to fill. Let’s see how this model stacks up. Other than a suction-style opening tool, this model does not come with any extras such as an additional engine or a hoist, which is fine by me, as the price is also significantly lower. In the past, LS Collectibles made a resin and sealed model of this RX-7, but the price was similar to what this WhelArt model costs today, and to me, this awards a clear win to the WhelArt model in the price category.

Out of the box, this model looks good, although it does not have the finesse or fit and finish of a more expensive Motorhelix model. Shut lines are acceptable, but could use some refinement in the side of the trunk lid area where it meets the body of the car. This is similar to the front hood, where it meets the pop-up lights. Oh yes, let’s talk about those pop-up lights – they are absolutely awesome! Their operation involves opening up one light at a time – this can give you a winking effect if you wish to display one in the up position and the other in the down position. I will personally display the model with both lights open, as to me, this is an important detail for cars of that generation.

This WhelArt Mazda RX-7 is constructed in die-cast metal with opening parts, and I think this is the most desired choice amongst collectors. White glossy paint is reasonably well applied on the die-cast body shell and some of the plastic parts, such as mirrors. There is no visible paint mismatch, which is one of my pet peeves. All windows are well fitted in all their respective areas. In my opinion, side windows give the model an overall enhanced look and add to the realism. The interior of this white example is mostly black with grey seats, silver pedals, and orange buttons located on the center console. Sports cars from this time were focused more on driving dynamics, and interiors were kept very simple. When I first opened the door and looked at the seats, I thought they were off, but after a quick search on the internet, I will admit they are correct and look well done with good effort of fabric simulation. Floors and trunk all have flocking – another plus.

At the front, everything looks well-proportioned; however, I would like to point out a couple of things. The raised “Mazda” script is in place and is part of the casting; however, the last “a” looks lost and flattened to the rest of the bumper and is therefore barely visible. The second item is the lack of a black frame around the clear lens above the turning signal. Other than that, everything else looks satisfactory to me.

Open the hood, and you are greeted by a wonderful engine, which is reproduced with quality in mind. The engine hood is held by an engine prop – another great little detail. And why not keep the hood open and show off that massive intercooler! There are lots of nice details here, including an adequate number of various labels. It is a real pleasure buying a model for a very reasonable price and being able to enjoy what is clearly missing in electric cars today.

At the back, this model looks more than satisfactory. All emblems look great, rear lights are on point, spoiler is accurate, rear window defogger is present, and rear wiper is where it should be. The rear license plate reminds you of what car you are looking at – my personal favourite way of identifying a car. In all, everything is faithfully reproduced and exactly where it should be.

Flip the model upside down, and you will find more than an adequate amount of detail. I know most people display models on their wheels and not always look underneath, but it is important to know WhelArt did not cut any corners here either. Front wheels do turn in both directions, rolling Toyo Proxes tires are appropriately branded, and tire thread completes the package.

To sum everything up, I think this is a well-crafted model with an adequate amount of detail. If white is not your colour of choice, WhelArt has a grey metallic available as well. As it is very difficult to find models in this price bracket with that much attention to detail, I would definitely recommend this model to fellow collectors. Let’s hope WhelArt expands and produces more models in the future, as I think they are in for something good in our community of model car collectors.