Mazda accepts return of RX-7 from long-term owner

Naoko Nishimoto, an 80-year-old Japanese woman, has gifted her Mazda RX-7 back to the manufacturer after driving it daily for 25 years. Nishimoto purchased the sports car at age 55, inspired by the anime Initial D.

Over a quarter-century of ownership, she accumulated approximately 48,000 miles and maintained the vehicle meticulously. Upon deciding to voluntarily surrender her driver’s license due to her age, she chose to return the car to Mazda to ensure it would be appreciated by others rather than sitting unused.

Mazda has taken ownership of the vehicle and committed to a full restoration. The automaker intends to use the restored RX-7 as a publicity vehicle to share Nishimoto’s story and her passion for driving with a new generation of automotive enthusiasts.