Segment:
Compact Sports Coupe/Sedan, Rotary-powered vehicle niche
Competitors:
Datsun 240Z/260Z, Toyota Celica, Ford Capri, Chevrolet Vega, Plymouth Firebird
Unique Selling Points:
Unique rotary engine technology, distinctive styling, sporty driving dynamics for its era.
For Buyers:
Essential for maintaining and restoring these iconic rotary-powered Mazdas, offering in-depth technical guidance for enthusiasts and mechanics alike.
Powertrain:
Rotary Engine (12A), Lubrication, Cooling, Fuel, Ignition, Exhaust
Drivetrain:
Clutch, Transmission (4-speed Manual, 3-speed Automatic), Driveshaft, Rear Axle
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front Disc/Rear Drum), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Gauges, Ignition System, Starting & Charging System, Accessories
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Doors, Glass, Interior Trim, Seats, HVAC System
Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Checks, Fluid Level Checks, Lubrication Points
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Charts, Common Problems & Solutions, Engine Performance Issues, Electrical Faults
Repair:
Engine Rebuild, Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Component Diagnosis & Repair
Specifications:
Torque Values, Clearances, Fluid Capacities, Dimensional Data, Electrical Component Specs
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional mechanics and dedicated enthusiasts. Covers disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of all major components.
Quality:
High-resolution PDF, searchable text, printable pages.
Resolution:
Crisp, clear text and legible diagrams/illustrations.
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF Download)
Paper:
N/A (Digital PDF Download)
Engine Type:
Two-Rotor Wankel Rotary
Displacement:
1146 cc (69.9 cu in)
Horsepower Approx:
100-125 hp (varies by year/market)
Torque Approx:
110-125 lb-ft (varies by year/market)
Carburetion:
Single or Twin Downdraft Carburetors (e.g., Hitachi, Mikuni)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (later models may require lead substitute or specific tuning)
Oil Type Spec:
API SG or higher recommended (check manual for exact specs for the era, often 10W-30 or 10W-40, plus specific rotary oil injection)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based (e.g., 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Type:
3-Speed Automatic (e.g., Torqueflite derivative)
Clutch Type:
Dry Single Plate
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent
Wheelbase Rx2:
2480 mm (97.6 in)
Wheelbase Rx3:
2420 mm (95.3 in)
Length:
Approx. 4100-4250 mm (161.4-167.3 in) depending on model/year
Width:
Approx. 1600 mm (63 in)
Height:
Approx. 1300-1350 mm (51.2-53.1 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 950-1050 kg (2094-2315 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight:
Not specified, consult manual
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x110 mm
Tire Sizes:
Commonly 165SR13, 175/70SR13 (check manual for specific fitments)
Crash Test Results:
No modern crash test ratings available for this era.
Braking System:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes (standard); potential for 4-wheel disc on later/performance variants.
Steering Type:
Recirculating Ball
Seatbelts:
Standard lap belts, potential for shoulder belts on later models.
Headrests:
Often optional or absent on early models.
Oil Change:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (recommendation for rotary engines).
Spark Plug Check:
Every 6,000 miles (specific platinum or semi-metallic plugs often recommended).
Rotor Apex Seal Inspection:
No set interval, but symptoms of wear (low compression, poor starting) indicate need for inspection/rebuild. Manual details compression testing procedures.
Timing Belt Chain:
Rotary engines do not have a timing belt; they use chain-driven oil pump and distributor drive.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.5 - 5.0 liters (4.7 - 5.3 US quarts) including oil filter (check manual).
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 6.0 liters (6.3 US quarts) (check manual).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for specific recommendation)
Apex Seals:
Wear and tear of apex seals is the most common issue, leading to compression loss.
Carburetor Tuning:
Can be finicky, requiring precise adjustment; vacuum leaks are common.
Cooling System:
Overheating can occur if the cooling system is not meticulously maintained due to the compact nature and heat output of the rotary engine.
Rust Corrosion:
Common for vehicles of this era, particularly in areas exposed to salt and moisture. Manual includes body repair sections.
Rotary Pioneering:
Mazda's commitment to rotary engine technology, starting with the Cosmo Sport.
Rx2 Introduction:
Introduced in 1970 as the Capella Rotary, known as RX-2 in export markets. Positioned as a compact, sporty sedan and coupe.
Rx3 Introduction:
Introduced in 1971 as the Savanna Rotary, known as RX-3 in export markets. Shorter wheelbase and more focused sport variant.
Facelifts Updates:
Both models received minor styling updates and technical refinements throughout their production runs.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Production End Year:
1978 (replaced by RX-7)
