The 1997 Mazda RX-7 FD, made iconic through its starring role as Han’s vehicle in The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift, underwent a remarkable transformation to become a legend in the world of cars and cinema. With substantial engine modifications by VeilSide, including an HKS turbocharger, along with an APexi suspension and Brembo brakes, this RX-7 pushed boundaries in performance and precision handling. Its arresting VeilSide Fortune body kit complemented the performance upgrades, giving the RX-7 an aggressive, lowered stance.
In the annals of automotive history, one name that continues to resonate with petrolheads and movie buffs alike is the 1997 Mazda RX-7 FD, affectionately known as the Mazda RX-7 VeilSide Fortune. This iconic vehicle’s allure in the franchise can be attributed to its pivotal role in the film’s high-octane action.
Han’s RX-7, adorned with the VeilSide Fortune kit, underwent a stunning transformation, using which Han demonstrates various drifting techniques throughout the movie, including power slides, donuts, and controlled drifts. In this article, we will look at how Han’s Mazda was transformed into this legendary vehicle.
Power Unleashed: Engine Modifications
The 1997 Mazda RX-7 FD, or the VeilSide Fortune, boasts substantial engine modifications. It has a finely tuned 13B rotary engine, masterfully tweaked by VeilSide. What sets it apart is the addition of an HKS turbocharger, which catapults its power output and overall performance to new heights.
To put it in perspective, the stock 1997 RX-7 FD delivered a respectable 255 horsepower and 217 lb-ft of torque. However, the VeilSide-tuned variant flexed its muscles with an estimated power output hovering around 300 horsepower, and some sources even suggest it could reach up to a jaw-dropping 330 RWHP at 15 psi.
The enhanced power translates into an exhilarating performance that goes beyond what the stock version could offer. Complementing the turbocharger, other performance enhancements include a titanium exhaust system, Brembo brakes, and an APexi suspension.
While precise 0-60 mph acceleration figures may elude us, it’s safe to say that these upgrades undeniably transformed the RX-7’s sprinting capabilities, taking it beyond the 7.5 seconds of its stock counterpart.
Precision in Motion: Suspension and Handling
Han’s RX-7 takes handling to the next level with an APexi suspension system. This carefully crafted modification enhances the vehicle’s handling and overall performance. Designed with precision in mind, it bestows unparalleled control and stability, particularly during high-speed maneuvers, making it the perfect choice for drifting and racing enthusiasts.
The secret to its prowess lies in a harmonious combination of stiffer springs, adjustable dampers, and upgraded sway bars. Together, these elements work in harmony to minimize body roll and elevate the car’s overall handling capabilities. This isn’t just about style; it’s about substance.
The benefits of the APexi suspension system shine as the RX-7 navigates corners with unwavering consistency, giving the driver the crucial ability to maintain control and execute precise adjustments. Whether it’s drifting or racing, where every fraction of a second counts, this suspension system comes to the fore, delivering faster lap times and optimizing the car’s power usage.
Beyond the APexi suspension system, a carefully curated ensemble of performance-enhancing modifications further fine-tunes the RX-7 into a finely balanced drift and race car. Despite competing with more potent and costly rivals, this RX-7 stands its ground, offering a compelling blend of performance and precision without any need for excessive hype.
Stopping Power Redefined: Braking System
In the world of high-performance vehicles, like Han’s RX-7, the significance of upgraded brakes cannot be overstated. The inclusion of Brembo brakes significantly bolsters its stopping capabilities, providing superior control and handling prowess, especially in demanding scenarios like high-speed braking and cornering. Brembo, a renowned name in the realm of performance brake systems, is celebrated for crafting top-tier, dependable, and efficient braking solutions that cater to not just sports cars but also supercars.
In Han’s RX-7, the Brembo brakes were seamlessly integrated with other components, including the APexi suspension and the titanium exhaust system. This synergy resulted in a harmoniously balanced and capable driving experience. It’s crucial to emphasize that while enthusiasts often focus on a car’s engine power and exterior modifications, upgraded brakes are a cornerstone of enhanced performance.
In the case of Han’s RX-7, they were not just an accessory; they were a vital element that elevated the car’s stopping power and contributed significantly to an enriched driving experience. They instilled confidence and precision, allowing the driver to explore the car’s limits with assurance and control without resorting to exaggerated claims..
Visual Majesty and Dimensions
The Veilside Fortune RX-7 made its first appearance at the Tokyo Auto Salon, a renowned automotive show in Japan, before being purchased from Veilside for use in “Tokyo Drift”. This comprehensive kit includes a front bumper, side skirts, rear bumper, fenders, and a rear wing and can be acquired for an additional investment of $17,000. What’s its purpose? To enhance the RX-7’s visual appeal while preserving its original dimensions.
The modified RX-7 retains its width and length, ensuring it maintains its road presence. Crafted around the FD3S RX-7 platform, this model gained international acclaim, notably following its appearance in the film “Fast and Furious: Tokyo Drift.”
At its core, the Veilside Fortune body kit for the RX-7 FD3S encompasses components that not only transform the car’s appearance but also enhance its performance. The base kit, which carries a price tag of ¥2,420,000, encompasses essential elements including a front bumper spoiler constructed from FRP and carbon, front fenders, hood, headlight set featuring Lexan headlight covers, side skirts, door panels, rear fenders, rear gate, side mirrors, rear bumper spoiler, rear wing, Lexan glasses, and emblems. Beyond the base kit, drivers have the option to further customize their FD Fortune with additional components. These optional parts, available in both carbon and FRP, encompass front and side underwings as well as rear duct fins, with prices spanning from ¥49,000 to ¥138,000.
It’s essential to highlight that this transformation is more about aesthetics than altering the vehicle’s inherent performance or handling dynamics. In tandem with the body kit, Han’s RX-7 boasts a slew of performance enhancements. A potent 13B rotary engine with a HKS turbocharger resides under the hood.
A titanium exhaust system serenades the road, while Brembo brakes and an APexi suspension fine-tune the driving experience. These enhancements culminate in a power output of around 300 horsepower and an elevated level of driving engagement, solidifying the RX-7’s status as a performance legend.
While precise weight figures for the modified RX-7 elude us, it’s reasonable to expect a slight increase due to the body kit and performance upgrades. Nevertheless, the true allure of Han’s RX-7 lies in its arresting visual transformation.
The VeilSide Fortune body kit, combined with its performance modifications, not only ensures that this machine commands the road but also solidifies its place in automotive lore. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of well-executed modifications, capturing the hearts of fans and car enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
The Mazda RX-7, especially in Han’s iconic rendition, has etched an indelible mark in the automotive world. The addition of a nitrous system, while possible and within limits, increased its acceleration capabilities even further. The enduring appeal of Han’s RX-7 is multi-faceted. Its distinctive design and high-performance features have garnered admiration from automotive enthusiasts, showcasing its well-balanced appeal.
Moreover, its role as a symbol of Han’s character in the Fast and Furious franchise has solidified its reputation, and its appearances in “The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift” and video games have added to its fan-favorite status. Beyond the screen, it has influenced the aftermarket automotive industry, spawning VeilSide-inspired body kits and performance upgrades, not just for the RX-7 but for a range of sports cars, demonstrating its practical influence on car enthusiasts and tuners alike.
