An original Mazda Savanna RX-3 has popped up for sale in Japan, going up for auction with just over 80,000km on the clock.
The dark green example is a 1973 Savanna GT model, featuring a 12A rotary engine and five-speed manual (as noted by ‘F5’). A Facebook post by our friends over at Nippon2U says it is rated 3, which means the condition is good but with blemishes.
Think along the lines of scratches and scuffing on the paintwork, or minor dents or rust, with interior trim featuring some damage or decent wear and tear. It all appears to be complete though, with all chrome exterior trimmings still in place.
Some of these parts are very hard to come by, including the sunshade over the rear windscreen, complete headlight and taillight housings, and what appears to be the original wheels and dress trims. Even the steering wheel looks original, including the rotary badge in the centre.
More specific details aren’t mentioned, but in its day the RX-3 – called the Savanna in Japan – featured a 12A (1146cc) twin-rotor engine producing 92kW. The GT model, launched exclusively in Japan, also had lowered suspension and wider 5.5-inch wheels.
Inside, the GT came with special vinyl upholstery, styled like leather, with embossed headrests, and a bespoke dash compared with the regular Savanna and overseas RX-3 (including the model sold in Australia). As shown on this example up for sale, the dash showcases three gauges across the top, as well as unique woven straps on the seats (missing on the rear).
These models are becoming highly sought after as the years go on, with prices in Australia up around the $100,000 mark. Although, all listings for sale in Australia that we found consisted of highly-modified examples, making this original one a very rare find.
Head over to the Nippon2U Facebook page to keep up to date on the latest listings. And if you see something you like, be sure to act fast and get and touch with them as rare classics like this will sell fast.
