Help needed in Philly 1990 RX7 ragtop

I'm inheriting a 1990 RX7 convertible from my Dad who passed away recently. He loved this car. Even named it the "Contessa" (which I think is Italian for hottee).  It has been sitting out in the open on a lot behind a mechanics for 1 year (I didn't know...). Last I heard it had "transmission" problems which is strange for a manual with only about 60k original miles. I guess it sat because nobody my Dad went to could deal with the issues. I don't even know where to start. Dealers will cost a fortune if they can even deal with a car of this vintage. Anyone out there know a classic Mazda-friendly mechanic in the Philadelphia region?

There's no need to post this in more than one location. 

I agree.  Which post do you want to keep AreHexHeaven? Pick one please.  The other goes.
'Sorry to hear about your Dad though. I lost my own when I was just 19.

BTW: con·tes·sa (kn-ts, kn-tssä)
n.
An Italian countess.