Segment:
Sports Coupe / Grand Tourer
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional repair shops specializing in rotary engines.
Competitors:
Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (MkIII), Porsche 944.
Differentiator:
Rotary Wankel engine technology, balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive, iconic styling.
Appeal:
Unique driving experience, motorsport heritage, distinctive engine sound.
Powertrain:
Engine (rotary), cooling, lubrication, fuel, exhaust, ignition, emissions control.
Drivetrain:
Transmission (manual/automatic), clutch, driveshafts, differentials, axles.
Chassis:
Suspension (front/rear), steering system, brakes (front/rear), wheels and tires.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows/locks, audio system wiring diagrams.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, glass, seats, trim, HVAC system, body electrical components.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, spark plug (apex seal) inspection/replacement procedures.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), electrical system testing.
Repair:
Component removal and installation, assembly and disassembly, component-specific repair instructions.
Overhaul:
Engine rebuild procedures (rotary apex seal, housing inspection), transmission overhaul, differential rebuild.
Adjustments:
Valve clearance adjustments (where applicable for ancillary components), idle speed adjustments, brake adjustments.
Depth:
Detailed, comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to full engine and drivetrain rebuilds, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Rotary Wankel (13B)
Configuration:
Two-Rotor, Naturally Aspirated
Displacement:
1.3L (1308 cc)
Horsepower:
150 hp (112 kW) @ 6500 rpm
Torque:
125 lb-ft (169 Nm) @ 4000 rpm
Injection Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Octane Rating 87 minimum, 91 recommended)
Induction:
Naturally aspirated, multi-port fuel injection.
Cooling System:
Liquid-cooled with pressurized radiator.
Lubrication System:
Pressurized wet sump with oil cooler.
Transmission Type:
5-Speed Manual
Transmission Type:
4-Speed Automatic
Clutch:
Hydraulic, single dry plate.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda ATF M-III or equivalent.
Crash Test Ratings:
Limited data available for this era; structural integrity generally considered good for its time.
Brakes:
Power-assisted disc brakes (front ventilated), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) optional or standard on higher trims.
Steering:
Power-assisted rack and pinion.
Restraints:
Seat belts (three-point), driver and passenger airbags (optional or later availability).
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player.
Climate Control:
Manual HVAC controls, optional automatic climate control on some trims.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available as an option or standard on certain trims.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; primarily focused on basic automotive functions.
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions. Critical for rotary engines.
Air Filter:
Inspect every 7,500 miles (12,000 km), replace as needed or annually.
Spark Plugs:
Replace every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km), depending on type (standard vs. platinum). Apex seals also require inspection/periodic replacement.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 2 years.
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check owner's manual for specific recommendations). Rotary engines require pre-mix oil injection or specific oil for oil metering injection systems.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Rotary Engine Wear:
Apex seal wear, eccentric shaft seal leaks, oil seal degradation leading to low compression.
Oil Consumption:
Higher than piston engines; normal consumption should be monitored. Excessive consumption indicates issues.
Fuel Injectors:
Clogging or failure, particularly in higher mileage vehicles.
Leading Armature Failure:
Can occur with prolonged high-revving or inadequate lubrication.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear and tear on rubber bushings leading to degraded handling and noise.
Mazda Rotary:
Mazda's pioneering history with the rotary engine, starting with the Cosmo.
Rx 7 Generations:
First Generation (SA/FB), Second Generation (FC, 1985-1992), Third Generation (FD).
Fc Generation Updates:
Facelifted in 1989 with updated styling, improved aerodynamics, and revised suspension tuning.
Production Years:
1985-1992
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
