Mazda sports car RX-7
The coach-built vehicle makes waves
Reasons why we can’t complain about the price
The Mazda RX-7 is a cornerstone of Japanese sports car history, renowned for its rotary engine—a rarity in the automotive world. With its high RPM capabilities and distinctive sound, the RX-7 has captured the hearts of enthusiasts. However, environmental regulations and fuel efficiency concerns have led to its discontinuation, leaving little hope for reviving this iconic model as a purely internal combustion vehicle.
Recently, intriguing news from Ukraine has captured the attention of car enthusiasts: a coach-built vehicle based on the Mazda RX-7 has been listed for sale. This unique offering not only boasts an eye-catching design but also comes with a fascinating history.
Produced as a second-generation RX-7 model, it boasts a uniquely distinctive appearance
As reported by Carscoops on September 5, a remarkable item was posted in the Facebook group Unique Cars For Sale 3.0. Known as the Proteros Blade Nagual, this one-of-a-kind vehicle was produced by Grig Tobolin, the representative of Ukrainian coachbuilder Proteros Design. The car was first unveiled to the public in 2018.
At first glance, the Proteros Blade Nagual’s striking visuals make it hard to recognize its origins. Built on the chassis of the 1989 Mazda RX-7 (FC3S), the design draws inspiration from the legendary Lamborghini Countach and Lancia Stratos. Features like the wraparound glass, integrated ducktail spoiler, and quad muffler tips evoke a classic 1980s muscle car aesthetic.
The rotary engine + manual combination
has accumulated 112,000 km (69,593 miles)
The design modifications are extensive, with no remnants of the original RX-7’s appearance. The front end presents a low, sleek profile, while the headlamps blend seamlessly with the body color. Unique side skirts and sharp character lines enhance the sporty look, and the wheels are sourced from the Lamborghini Murcielago.
Under the hood, the Proteros retains the 13B rotary engine from the base RX-7, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission that drives the rear wheels, generating a maximum output of 210 horsepower. The seller notes that the vehicle had covered 112,000 km (69,593 miles) before the coach-building work commenced, emphasizing the need for proper maintenance.
Surviving even in a war zone
The price is approximately $70,000
Despite being crafted by a lesser-known coachbuilder, the Proteros Blade Nagual has garnered positive feedback for its high level of craftsmanship. It is nothing short of remarkable that this car has remained undamaged in a war-torn area, particularly on the outskirts of Kyiv.
The seller has listed the Proteros Blade Nagual for approximately $70,000. While this price is several times higher than that of a used RX-7 of the same model year, the rarity of this one-of-a-kind vehicle and the effort invested in its custom design make the cost justifiable. Additionally, the car can be shipped to nearby European countries if needed.
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