After two decades since its inception, the last RX-7 is still considered to be the best handling car to have come out of Japan. Though the S2000 and now, the GT86, have contested that title, the Mazda’s combination of incisive handling, big power from its turbocharged motor and timeless looks have made it an icon that, given the amount of action these cars continue to see, will endure for another decade or two.

Part of the FD3S’ cornering ability came from its fantastic weight distribution. The small, compact 13B-REW engine, though heavy, sat behind the front strut towers and flush with the firewall. This not only helped in turn-in but allowed for decent weight transfer to the rear under acceleration; a valuable trait in all cars, especially ones with hard-hitting turbo motors. Similarly, the contemporary JZA80 Supra was another one of the heavy hitters from that era, with a powerful, force-fed engine, but a poorer weight distribution.

That nose-heaviness makes itself apparent in this duel between a fleet of RX-7s and a powerful Supra driven by a talented, courageous and hard-charging driver. With more weight sitting over the front axle, wheelspin is a constant problem. To wrangle the Supra’s snappy power delivery on a damp surface takes some serious commitment, and in several sections the undeterred driver keeps his foot planted, despite the rear wheels smoking and the walls looming closer and closer.

To match an FD3S on braking and cornering speed takes some serious talent, since the Supra’s front-heavy weight distribution limits both these categories of performance. However, some solid car control can occasionally make up for deficiencies in the chassis, and never once does this driver’s talent ever come into question. With the rears spinning wildly in fourth gear corners and the car breaking away under hard braking, the Supra’s driver obviously smells blood, and is willing to take a few chances to catch the pesky Mazdas.