The Mazda RX-7 was one of the few classic sports cars to come from Japan. Known for its sleek styling, unique rotary engine and affordable price, the two-door coupe was an instant hit from the moment it was introduced for the 1979 model year.Mazda's devotion to the Wankel rotary engine is one of the more well-known quirks of the auto industry. Although it is less fuel-efficient than conventional piston engines, the rotary engine has the benefit of being compact and lightweight. These qualities, along with the car's well-tuned chassis and rear-wheel-drive layout, have made the Mazda RX-7 one of the best-handling affordable sports cars ever made.Through three generations, Mazda made sure that the RX-7 stayed on the cutting edge of design and performance, completely overhauling the car for each model change. Unfortunately, Mazda probably went too far with the final RX-7. Although it was beautiful to look at, the third generation's overall no-compromise performance concept was too extreme, and the car's high price turned off many potential buyers. Sagging sales forced Mazda to stop importing the RX-7 to the North American market just three years into its product cycle.Though Mazda is currently producing a rotary-powered successor, the four-seat RX-8, many enthusiasts are still hoping the company will bring out an all-new RX-7. Though rumors have floated about, no official plans have been announced.