Segment:
Iconic Japanese Sports Car, Rotary-powered Grand Tourer.
Predecessor:
Mazda RX-7 FC (Second Generation).
Competitors:
Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (Mk3/Mk4), Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4, Porsche 944.
Key Selling Points:
Lightweight chassis, balanced handling, potent twin-turbo rotary engine, distinctive styling.
Aerodynamics:
Advanced aerodynamic design for improved stability at high speeds.
Styling:
Sleek, flowing lines, pop-up headlights, and a distinctively curved roofline contribute to its timeless aesthetic.
Rotary Engine Innovation:
The FD RX-7 is synonymous with Mazda's unique rotary powertrain.
Engine Mechanical:
Rotary Engine (13B-REW), Engine Assembly, Lubrication System, Cooling System, Fuel System (including twin-sequential turbochargers), Ignition System, Emission Control Systems
Powertrain:
Transmission (RWD), Clutch, Driveshaft, Differential, Axles, Gear Ratios
Chassis And Suspension:
Front Suspension (Double Wishbone), Rear Suspension (Multi-link), Steering System, Brake System (ABS), Wheels, Tires
Electrical System:
Engine Control Unit (ECU), Ignition Control, Lighting, Instruments and Gauges, Power Accessories, Audio System, Wiring Diagrams
Body And Interior:
Body Construction, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, Seats, Safety Restraints (Airbags, Seatbelts), Doors, Windows, Convertible Top (if applicable)
Routine Maintenance:
Oil and Filter Changes, Spark Plug Replacement, Air Filter Replacement, Coolant Checks and Changes, Fluid Level Checks and Replenishment
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Fault Code Interpretation, Component Testing, Root Cause Analysis for Common Issues
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine Rebuilding (Apex Seals, Rotors, Housings), Transmission Overhaul, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Diagnosis and Repair, Body Panel Repair and Replacement
Diagnostics:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-I), Sensor Testing, Actuator Testing, Troubleshooting Guides based on Symptoms
Scope:
Comprehensive factory-level detail covering all aspects of vehicle maintenance, diagnostics, repair, and overhaul.
Precision:
Includes torque specifications, clearances, fluid types and capacities, wiring schematics, and detailed component disassembly/assembly instructions.
Target Audience:
Professional Technicians, Advanced DIY Enthusiasts, Restoration Specialists.
Digital Format:
PDF (Portable Document Format) is the most common and preferred format for these types of manuals, allowing for searchability and scalability.
Resolution:
High-resolution scans ensuring legibility of diagrams, schematics, and text. Typically optimized for digital viewing and printing.
Physical Binding:
N/A for digital download, but original factory manuals were typically bound in heavy-duty binders or stapled booklets.
Physical Paper:
N/A for digital download, but original factory manuals used high-quality, durable paper resistant to shop grease and wear.
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel)
Rotor Displacement:
654 cc per rotor (1308 cc total equivalent)
Configuration:
Two-rotor, Sequential Twin-Turbocharged
Horsepower:
252 bhp @ 6500 rpm (initial models)
Torque:
217 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (initial models)
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended)
Turbocharging:
Sequential twin-turbo system (Primary turbo for low RPM, Secondary turbo for high RPM)
NHTSA Ratings:
Not prominently advertised or available for this era/segment.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most models.
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Control System (TCS) on some later models/trims.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag standard from introduction.
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pretensioners.
Roll Cage:
Integrated structural rigidity and reinforced A-pillars for rollover protection.
Audio System:
Factory premium audio system with cassette player and AM/FM radio. Often features premium speaker components.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems depending on trim level. Air conditioning is standard.
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system for highway driving.
Power Features:
Power windows, power door locks, power mirrors.
Oil Change:
Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles (5,000 - 8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Higher quality synthetic oil is highly recommended.
Spark Plugs:
Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km), depending on plug type (OEM vs. aftermarket). Critical for rotary health.
Air Filter:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or annually. Crucial for preventing wear on the rotary seals.
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended. Full synthetic is strongly advised.
Coolant:
Mazda-specific long-life coolant or equivalent (e.g., Dex-Cool compatible) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil for manual transmission.
Differential Fluid:
API GL-5 SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil.
Apex Seal Wear:
The most critical potential issue. Caused by detonation, poor lubrication, or incorrect maintenance. Manifests as low compression, poor starting, and loss of power.
Oil Metering Pump:
Failure can lead to insufficient lubrication of apex seals, exacerbating wear. Regular checks and maintenance are vital.
Sequential Turbo Control:
Solenoid failures or vacuum leaks can affect the transition between turbos, leading to hesitation or power loss.
Catalytic Converter:
Prone to clogging due to incomplete combustion or oil burning, impacting performance and emissions.
Fuel Injectors:
Can become clogged over time, affecting fuel atomization and performance.
Rotary Legacy:
Mazda's long-standing commitment to rotary engine technology, beginning with the Cosmo Sport 110S.
Fd Development:
Designed by Tom Matano and Hiroshi Masuoka, with significant input from Porsche engineers for chassis tuning and aerodynamics.
Trims And Variants:
Various global market trims including Type R, Type RB, Bathurst R, X-TUDO, etc., each with specific equipment and performance enhancements.
Production Period:
1991-2002
Manufacturing Location:
Hofushima Plant, Japan.
