Inside Artemy Zotov’s Mazda RX-7 Model for CaDA: Engineering Meets Artistry

The Inspiration Behind the Mazda RX-7 Model

What inspired you to choose the Mazda RX-7 as your next model project?

My favorite part in the Fast and Furious series is Tokyo Drift, and I really remembered this Mazda since it had a custom body kit. When I started getting into brick toys as an adult, it was only a matter of time before I designed it someday.

Design Highlights and Key Features

Are there any particular features of the RX-7 that you wanted to highlight in the design?

I think it's no secret to anyone who's already seen this model that the main feature of the model is a rotating rotary engine. But it is also worth noting that the model has an authentic 4 speed gearbox. Some real RX-7s were produced with an automatic 4-speed transmission.

Collaboration with CaDA: How It All Started

Can you tell us about your collaboration with CaDA? How did the partnership come about, and what was the process like working with them?

In fact, I asked CaDA's contacts from another designer who had already worked with the company. After that, we started proposing projects together, and some of them ended up producing sets.

All communication with the company is conducted in correspondence with the manager via email. If I lack some details for the current project, I ask the manager to send them to me, and this makes the work easier. Usually, before releasing the set, CaDA sends a control version of the kit for a final check.

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced during the design and development of the Mazda RX-7 model? How did you overcome these challenges?

The biggest challenge was, of course, the rotary engine. To tell the truth, I was building the very first

version of the model for a local competition on the theme of "movie cars", and then I had not yet figured out how to assemble a rotating engine, so there was a static dummy. But after a while, I suddenly decided to try using a chain to create a triangular shape. After that, all that remained was to create the desired shape of the engine body so that this triangle would not get stuck when spinning.

Unique Building Techniques and Structural Design

Your models often showcase unique building techniques. Are there specific techniques or elements that you incorporated into the RX-7 to enhance its realism?

I wouldn't say my techniques are unique. I adhere to the rule that the structure must be strong but without compromising the design. Except for the rotary engine, the most interesting technique in the RX7 is the use of a curved panel for the rear arch of the wheel, as the existing arch panels would not match the original design.

Achieving Scale and Detail in Model Building

How do you approach achieving the right scale and level of detail in your models, particularly with the RX-7? What are some of the key features that you focused on?

I always check the drawings of real cars to ensure that my models have the correct proportions. But in the case of the RX7, the difficulty was that this modified version of the car was wider than the stock one. So I had to look at different photos. In general, I start from the size of the wheels because their range is limited.

Builder Experience: What Fans Can Expect

What do you hope builders will experience when constructing the Mazda RX-7 model? Are there any specific aspects of the build that you think will be particularly rewarding for them?

I hope they like the gearbox and the engine, as well as the body design.

Feedback from the Building Bricks Community

Have you received any feedback from the building bricks community since the release of the RX-7 model? What has resonated most with fans and builders?

Everyone liked the rotary engine; someone even asked permission to use a similar design in their models. I was really happy to receive all that feedback.

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Buy CaDA C61502W Mazda RX7 at official store: https://decadastore.com/products/cada-mazda-rx-7-c61502w

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Future Projects and Inspirations

Can you share any hints or insights about what you’re working on next?

I prefer not to discuss my plans because my mood heavily influences my decisions, and I may discontinue the model if I lose interest. However, CaDA and I will certainly release another 1/8 scale model in the future. Stay tuned for more information.

Are there any other vehicles or themes you’re particularly excited about exploring?

Honestly, as a fan of anime games, I would like to build character figures, but I don't have much experience and system pieces for this yet.

As for vehicles, I would like to try assembling either a technic train or a technic yacht.

Educational Value in Model Building

Do you see model building as a form of education? How can models like the RX-7 contribute to learning about automotive design and engineering? 

I often come across advertisements inviting children to build with brick toys at their school. It is safe to say that this has now become a form of education. With large models like the RX7, one can study the structure of the chassis as it includes the suspension, transmission, and engine. I have even seen models that had brakes. I am still amazed by it.

Advice for Aspiring Model Builders and Designers

What advice would you give to aspiring builders and designers who want to create their own models? Are there any resources or techniques you recommend?

There are many free instructions for various models available right now. I started my own way with those. But it is also useful to assemble different sets that may use unexpected techniques.