Tyler Higgs’ V8-Powered Mazda RX-7

Tyler Higgs’ Mazda RX-7 started in rough shape. The car was destined for the scrap heap after suffering fire and rear impact damage and a poorly performed rebuild. Thankfully Tyler worked hard to transform the car into an amazing street and track machine.

For the power plant Tyler chose a 6.0 L LS2 V8 crate motor producing around 450 horsepower. It features ported heads, custom grind 220/550 camshaft, COMP trunion kit, Improved Racing oil baffle, and Earls 24-row oil cooler.

The V8 also makes use of JTR 1-7/8-inch longtube headers leading into a TAK Motorworks custom exhaust. Everything runs thanks to a TAK Motorworks custom engine and chassis wiring harness. Behind the LS2 sits a T56 six-speed manual transmission with a SDPC LS7 clutch and Ram Al lightweight flywheel. A custom aluminum driveshaft sends power to a factory RX-7 rear differential.

The RX-7 rides on a set of refurbished RE-Amemiya AW7 wheels. Tyler found a set that were 17-inch and bent. They were stripped, fixed, and had new lips and barrels installed making them 18×11 and 18×12.5. Mounted on them are a set of Toyo R888r tires.

On the exterior Tyler installed an ORIGIN Lab widebody kit. He also added APR carbon fiber mirrors and GT300 67-inch rear wing. The RX-7’s ride height is thanks to a Quantum coilovers with Nova 14kg springs.

Tyler is now working on the next phase of performance upgrades. You can follow the progress on @rx7_gt3_ls.

Source: @rx7_gt3_ls and Streetlight Productions