Market Position:
The Mazda RX-7 (SA/FB) established itself as a unique and accessible entry into the sports car market, particularly notable for its rotary engine technology, offering a distinct alternative to piston-engine competitors.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed against vehicles like the Datsun Z-cars (280ZX), Toyota Celica Supra, and Porsche 924. Its primary differentiator was the compact, high-revving rotary powertrain and balanced chassis.
Key Features:
Lightweight construction, rear-wheel drive, distinctive Wankel rotary engine, sleek coupe styling, independent front suspension, live rear axle (initially), later coil-sprung solid axle.
Coverage Years:
1979-1980
Coverage Areas:
All North American and Export Market Specifications
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Format:
Printed (typically, or digital reproduction)
Target Audience:
Do-it-yourself mechanics, professional technicians, classic car restorers, and Mazda enthusiasts.
Systems Covered:
Engine (Rotary, Wankel), Fuel System (Carburetor & Fuel Injection variants), Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain, Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Braking System (Front Disc, Rear Drum), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Components), Body & Chassis, Interior Trim, HVAC System
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Servicing, Component Removal and Installation, Overhaul and Reassembly, Diagnosis and Troubleshooting, Electrical Circuit Testing, Emissions Control Systems, Torque Specifications, Special Tool Usage, Exploded Views, Component Identification
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive - covers basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and driveline overhauls. Includes diagnostic flowcharts and detailed repair instructions essential for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Detailed troubleshooting guides, diagnostic flowcharts for electrical and mechanical issues, compression testing procedures for the rotary engine.
File Format:
N/A (typically printed document, PDF reproductions common)
Print Quality:
High-quality paper, clear diagrams and text (original factory standard)
Binding Type:
Stapled or perfect bound (original factory standard), professionally bound for reproductions
Paper Type:
Durable, coated paper stock suitable for workshop environments
Manual Completeness:
100% complete and intact factory service manual, covering all aspects of repair and maintenance.
Primary Engine:
12A Rotary (1146cc or 0.7L equivalent displacement)
Horsepower 1979:
100-105 hp @ 6000-6500 rpm (SA chassis, depending on market and emission controls)
Horsepower 1980:
100-110 hp @ 6000-6500 rpm (FB chassis, depending on market and emission controls)
Torque 1979 1980:
100-105 lb-ft @ 3500-4000 rpm (depending on market and emission controls)
Fuel System:
Initially Zenith Stromberg carburetors (single or twin), later models and variants used Hitachi (or similar) multi-point fuel injection (MPI) for increased performance and emissions compliance.
Induction Type:
Naturally Aspirated
Cooling System:
Pressurized liquid cooling system with front-mounted radiator.
Lubrication System:
Integrated oil sump with a specific rotary engine oil metering system (REMI) for apex seal lubrication.
Exterior Length 1979 1980:
Approx. 160 inches (4064 mm)
Exterior Width 1979 1980:
Approx. 65.2 inches (1656 mm)
Exterior Height 1979 1980:
Approx. 49.9 inches (1268 mm)
Wheelbase 1979 1980:
Approx. 86.6 inches (2199 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2200-2300 lbs (1000-1043 kg)
Wheel Size:
13x5.5 inch (standard), 14x5.5 inch (optional/later models)
Tire Size Standard:
185/70R13
Seating Capacity:
2+2 Seating (rear seats are very small)
Safety Ratings Era:
NHTSA ratings from this era are less standardized than modern tests. Focus was on occupant protection with available seatbelts and padded dashboards.
Active Features:
Four-wheel disc brakes (optional on early models, standard later), Limited-slip differential (optional).
Passive Features:
Energy-absorbing steering column, padded dashboard, three-point front seatbelts, dual-sided mirrors.
Infotainment System:
Basic AM/FM radio, optional cassette player. Analog gauges with tachometer.
Driver Assistance Features:
Minimal by modern standards. Focus was on driver engagement and mechanical feedback.
Connectivity Features:
None by modern definition.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (check manual for specific recommendations).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual; typically around 15,000-20,000 miles for rotary-specific plugs.
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 24,000 miles or 2 years.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SG/SH or equivalent, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (viscosity dependent on ambient temperature). Consult manual for exact specifications and rotary-specific oil requirements (e.g., for REMI system).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III / Mercon (or equivalent ATF specification).
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mazda Long Life Coolant (FL22) is recommended for later models, but for this era, standard green coolant is acceptable if flushed and replaced with appropriate mixture.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Apex Seal Wear:
The primary concern with rotary engines is apex seal wear. Regular maintenance, proper warm-up and cool-down procedures, and using the correct oil are critical to longevity. Compression testing is essential for diagnosing seal health.
Carburetor Tuning:
Zenith Stromberg carbs can require frequent adjustment and rebuild due to age and wear, impacting performance and fuel economy.
Rotary Engine Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines inherently consume some oil for lubrication. The REMI system injects oil directly into the engine. If consumption becomes excessive, it can indicate seal issues.
Cooling System Leaks:
Aging hoses, radiator, and water pump seals can lead to coolant leaks, which are critical to address promptly due to the engine's sensitivity to overheating.
Ignition System Maintenance:
Distributor, coil, and spark plug maintenance is vital for smooth rotary operation. Using correct spark plugs (often specific long-reach types) is crucial.
Brand Heritage:
Mazda, established in 1920, gained international recognition for its innovative rotary engine technology, pioneered by Felix Wankel and licensed and developed extensively by Mazda.
Model Evolution:
The RX-7 (SA22C) was Mazda's first dedicated sports car. Introduced in 1978 for the 1979 model year, it replaced the less sporting RX-3. The FB designation was used for the second phase of the first generation, from 1981-1985, with significant styling and chassis updates. The 1979-1980 models represent the initial introduction of the iconic platform.
Production Period:
First Generation: 1978-1985 (SA chassis 1978-1980, FB chassis 1981-1985)
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
