The Mazda RX-7, especially its third generation, stands as a peak of Japanese sports-car engineering. For 25 years, it was more than just a car for one remarkable Japanese grandmother, Naoko Nishimoto—it was a cherished companion.
While most seniors might choose a trusty, sensible vehicle for their final ride, Nishimoto's last drive before surrendering her license at 80 was in her sleek, silver RX-7, inspired by the anime Initial D. The series showcased epic car battles on winding roads, and a yellow RX-7, like the one driven by Keisuke Takahashi, captivated Nishimoto.
Captivated by the anime, Nishimoto seized her dream car as soon as she discovered it was a Mazda. Her Series 8 RX-7, boasting 276 horsepower and featuring upgrades like enhanced brakes and a more aggressive final drive, was among the last of its kind.
Nishimoto, despite her grandmotherly appearance, often embraced Nagasaki’s curvy roads in her RX-7. Her story gained fame through a local TV feature, sparking interest from over 400 potential buyers. In the end, Mazda itself purchased the car to include in its heritage collection.
On December 18, 2024, Nishimoto made her farewell drive to the dealership, leaving behind 48,000 miles of memories. In a dignified ceremony, she received a personalized plate and a letter from Mazda's president. The RX-7 now heads to Hiroshima for a meticulous restoration before joining promotional efforts in Yokohama.
Mazda's dedication to preserving automotive history extends to offering restoration services akin to those for the first-generation Miata. This highlights the RX-7's enduring legacy as a masterpiece of Japanese automotive design, making it perfect for a final drive to remember.
Naoko Nishimoto, an 80-year-old grandmother, bade farewell to her beloved Mazda RX-7, inspired by anime, after 25 years. Mazda acquired the car for preservation, recognizing its significance in automotive history and Nishimoto’s unique passion for performance.
 | What a beautiful story! Ms. Nishimoto's love for her RX-7 shows that passion knows no age. I can't wait to see how Mazda brings this iconic car back to life for future generations. |
 | It's bittersweet to see such a legendary car leave its owner, but it's great that Mazda will preserve it. Ms. Nishimoto certainly had an extraordinary automotive journey. |
 | I hope Mazda truly treats this RX-7 with the respect it deserves. Companies often say they're preserving history, but sometimes it’s just for show. |
