GT5 Transcripts/Mazda RX-7 FC

By the time the second-generation RX-7, the FC3S, arrived in October 1985, Mazda had firmly established the model as a competent rotary-powered sports machine. Although the new model was shorter than the previous car, it was wider and slightly taller, resulting in a 200-kg weight increase. But the newly designed 13B Wankel did more than compensate for the extra mass, as the turbocharged 654-cc powerplant produced 182 HP and 180 ft-lb of torque. To keep the rear end more secure, Mazda incorporated semi-trailing arms and lateral rods for the rear suspension that featured a toe control hub.

An even purer sports version of the car was introduced in August 1986, called the Infini. This limited-edition model was a two-seater, and featured, among other things, BBS alloy wheels, firmer shocks and an aluminum hood. The Infini name would make an appearance seven times, each time representing the sportiest version of the model, before production of the FC3S ceased in 1991.

Mazda made more significant tweaks to the RX-7 in 1989, when it matched a new independent twin-scroll turbocharger to the 13B as well raising the engine's compression ratio. The result was a power increase to 202 HP and 198.9 ft-lb. The final Infini model was the power of the 13B raised to 212 HP and 202.5 ft-lb. A convertible model was added to the lineup in 1987, which proved popular in the U.S., especially to women.