Segment:
Lightweight Sports Car / Roadster
Reputation:
Iconic, affordable, and driver-focused sports car that revived the roadster segment.
Key Competitors:
Lotus Elan (M100), Alfa Romeo Spider, Fiat Spider, Triumph Spitfire (older models).
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its superb handling, balanced chassis, and direct steering feel.
Design Philosophy:
Simplicity, lightweight construction, rear-wheel drive, and a focus on the pure driving experience.
Convertible Top:
Manual soft-top convertible roof, praised for its ease of operation.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine disassembly, assembly, rebuilding, and tuning for the 1.6L DOHC engine.
Engine Management:
Detailed diagnostics and repair procedures for the fuel injection system (EFI), ignition system, ECU (Engine Control Unit), and emissions control.
Transmission Manual:
Service and repair of the 5-speed manual transmission, including clutch system and driveshaft.
Transmission Automatic:
Service and repair of the optional 4-speed automatic transmission.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems (double wishbone), shock absorbers, springs, bushings, and alignment procedures.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear disc brakes, brake hydraulics, ABS (if equipped on specific early models), parking brake system, and bleeding procedures.
Steering:
Rack and pinion steering system, power steering system (if equipped), steering column, and tie rods.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, fuses, relays, and accessory circuits.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, convertible top mechanism and seals, chassis components, and rust prevention.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
OBD-I (On-Board Diagnostics) codes, diagnostic procedures, and troubleshooting flowcharts.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotation, and spark plug replacement.
Component Overhaul:
Detailed steps for rebuilding the engine, transmission, differential, and brake calipers.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon faults.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive and clear wiring diagrams for all electrical circuits.
Torque Specifications:
Exact torque values for all fasteners and critical components.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific procedures.
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive from basic preventative maintenance to complete engine and drivetrain overhauls. Includes diagnostic strategies and repair techniques.
Diagnostic Capability:
Detailed diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting, and component testing procedures.
Repair Level:
Suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts looking to perform all levels of repair and restoration.
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable, allowing for quick navigation to specific topics.
Image Resolution:
High-resolution scans ensuring clarity of diagrams, illustrations, and text.
Scalability:
Pages are likely formatted for standard printing (e.g., A4 or Letter size) and can be zoomed for detail.
Binding Type:
Not applicable (Digital PDF Download)
Paper Type:
Not applicable (Digital PDF Download)
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Inline 4-cylinder
Displacement:
1.6 Liters (1597 cc)
Valvetrain:
DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts), 16 Valves
Horsepower:
115 hp @ 6500 rpm (approx.)
Torque:
100 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane rating may vary by market; typically 91 AKI recommended)
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 6.0 Quarts (5.7 Liters)
Standard Transmission:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission:
4-speed Automatic Transmission
Differential:
Open differential (Limited Slip Differential - LSD - was a common option or upgrade)
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil (Specific Mazda specification should be confirmed in manual)
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III / Mercon ATF (Specific Mazda specification should be confirmed in manual)
Length:
155.7 inches (3955 mm)
Width:
66.1 inches (1680 mm)
Height:
48.2 inches (1225 mm)
Wheelbase:
89.2 inches (2265 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2100 - 2200 lbs (950 - 1000 kg), depending on options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 3000 lbs (1360 kg)
Trunk Volume:
Small, designed for weekend trips; specific volume not prominently advertised, but limited.
NHTSA Ratings:
Not directly comparable to modern standards. Early models lacked advanced safety features.
ABS:
Optional on some models, standard on later NA revisions.
Traction Control:
Not typically available on 1991 models.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag became standard in later NA years, likely optional or absent on early 1991 models.
Roll Over Protection:
Reinforced windshield frame and optional pop-up roll bars behind the seats.
Seatbelts:
Three-point inertia-reel seatbelts.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Check manual for exact recommendation.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 is commonly recommended. Refer to manual for specific viscosity and certification.
Oil Filter Part Number:
Mazda OEM: B6Y1-14-302 (or equivalent like Fram PH3512, Wix 51348)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or as per manual recommendations.
Timing Belt Replacement:
The B6 engine uses a timing belt. Replacement interval is typically around 60,000-70,000 miles (96,000-112,000 km). CRITICAL to check and replace if history is unknown.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mazda FL22 or equivalent is recommended for later models, but for 1991, standard green coolant should suffice if changed regularly.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual for exact specification; DOT 4 is generally preferred for higher boiling point).
Rust:
Prone to rust in common areas such as rocker panels, rear quarter panels, and subframes. Thorough inspection is crucial.
Oil Leaks:
Valve cover gasket, rear main seal, and oil pan gasket can develop leaks with age.
Cooling System:
Radiator and hoses can degrade; water pump may leak. Overheating can cause significant engine damage.
Clutch Wear:
Clutch components (disc, pressure plate, release bearing) are wear items and will require replacement based on driving style and mileage.
Window Regulators:
Can become stiff or break, especially on older models.
Convertible Top Seals:
Weather seals can degrade, leading to water leaks into the cabin. Replacement is often necessary.
