Mazda Savanna RX-7 Turbo (SA22C) (1982)先従隗始, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Mazda Savanna RX-7 Turbo (SA22C)

1982 — Japan

Malaise Era (1975-1985)JapaneseRotary Powered
Engine1,146 cc
DrivetrainRWD

Mazda Savanna RX-7 Turbo (SA22C)

The turbocharged SA22C RX-7 emerged during Japan's turbo boom era, adding a Hitachi turbocharger to the already charismatic 12A rotary engine for significantly improved performance. While increasing power, the turbo also highlighted the rotary's challenges with heat management and fuel consumption. This JDM-only variant featured limited-slip differential and sport suspension, making it more track-focused than export models. The turbo SA represented Mazda's willingness to experiment with rotary technology before achieving greater success with the later FC and FD generations.