Hey all, first post, just looking for some input. I'm pondering getting into SCCA Pro Rally in the 2wd class (fast as a bat out of heck along muddy roads) and I was just wondering, my options right now are early 80s RX7 or a '75 280Z, both in about the same condition, both going to be totally rebuilt (obviously) - I'm thinking the Z might be more up to the abuse, but don't seem to find a lot of info on people using them for Rally purposes. Any input?

 

Hey Justin. Sounds like a sweet project. One thing I see as tipping the scales in the Z's direction is that they have an independant rear suspension, compared to the rx7's solid rear axle. When you are trying to get grip and hitting bumps at the same time, the IRS will pay dividents. The one downside however, is that its a bit difficult to get a limited slip for the Z compared with the solid axle rx7.

All things considered I think the Z would be a more reliable car off road, tougher overall. However, you'd likely have an easier time finding rally parts for the rx7 since there are a few out there!

Best bet is probably to find one of those guys that are rallying the rx7 and ask them about the car.

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Thanks for the input, yeah I'm thinking the Z will be more likely to take the abuse, they were used often in the 70s and 80s rallies, I guess most of them have been broken down to the point where restoration for street machines is the most common application, unlike the slew of rally rx7s. I think I'll try and pursue the Z more than the rx, I don't really like the idea of the finiky rotary.