🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-3

Year:

1978

Generation Designation:

First Generation (SA22C chassis code for the coupe, though RX-3 name persisted for this model year in some markets)

Chassis Code:

SA22C

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Mazda RX-3 in 1978 was a sporty compact car, a significant model for Mazda's global expansion and particularly known for its rotary engine technology.

Competitors:

Competed with other sporty Japanese and American compacts of the era, such as Datsun (Nissan) Z-cars, Toyota Celica, and American pony cars.

Rotary Engine:

Its primary distinguishing feature was the unique Mazda Wankel rotary engine, offering a smooth power delivery and compact size.

Manual Utility:

Provides the exact same information used by dealership technicians, ensuring accurate and comprehensive repair procedures.

📋 Manual Details

All Models Covered:

Yes, covers all RX-3 models and configurations for the 1978 model year.

Repair Scope:

All repairs A-Z, vehicle specific.

Estimated Page Count:

Likely extensive, comparable to dealership service manuals of the era (typically 500+ pages).

Type:

Factory Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Rotary engine (12A) specific maintenance, diagnosis, and repair.

Control System:

Engine control, ignition system, fuel delivery system.

Mechanical:

Comprehensive mechanical systems including chassis, drivetrain, and engine components.

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, carburetor (likely Hitachi or Mikuni), fuel lines, and fuel filter service.

Emission Control:

Detailed information on emission control systems specific to the 1978 model year, including any relevant Japanese or US market regulations.

Intake Exhaust Cooling:

Intake manifold, exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (if applicable), radiator, cooling fan, water pump, and thermostat service.

Lube System:

Engine oil and filter changes, oil pump, and lubrication passages.

Ignition Charging Starting:

Spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor, points (if applicable) or electronic ignition, alternator, starter motor, and battery service.

Transmission:

Both manual and automatic transmission service, clutch operation, and drivetrain components.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension, steering box, power steering system (if equipped), and wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, brake fluid specifications, hydraulic system, parking brake operation, and power brake booster.

Electrical:

Complete wiring schematics, fuse box layout, lighting systems, instrument cluster, and accessory electrical components.

Body Exterior Interior:

Door mechanisms, glass replacement, seat adjustments, interior trim, and exterior body panel service.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, and general tune-up procedures.

Diagnosis:

Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon issues across all vehicle systems.

Repair:

Detailed instructions for the disassembly, repair, and reassembly of all major vehicle components.

Troubleshooting:

Troubleshooting guides and flowcharts for electrical and mechanical problems.

Specifications:

Comprehensive technical specifications for all components, including torque values, clearances, and fluid capacities.

Depth:

Dealership level, covering everything from basic maintenance to complex overhauls and diagnostics.

Detail Level:

Factory highly detailed, with step-by-step instructions and illustrations.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

All pages are printable for use in the workshop or garage.

Image Enlargement:

Images and diagrams can be blown up and printed in enlarged copies.

Binding:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital PDF)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Mazda Wankel Rotary

Engine Code:

12A

Displacement:

Approx. 1.15L (rotor displacement), often referred to as 1.3L by convention.

Horsepower:

Typically in the range of 100-110 HP (varies by market and emissions equipment).

Torque:

Around 110-120 lb-ft (varies by market and emissions equipment).

Carburetion:

Single or dual-barrel carburetor (e.g., Hitachi or Mikuni).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (as required by emissions standards of the era).

🔧 Transmission

Type:

4-speed manual transmission (common).

Type:

3-speed automatic transmission (available on some models).

Clutch:

Dry single-plate clutch for manual transmission models.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Coupe, Sedan, and sometimes a Station Wagon variant (though less common under RX-3 badging globally for this specific year, may be branded Savanna).

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2,200 - 2,400 lbs (1000 - 1100 kg) depending on body style and equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited formal crash test data publicly available for this era and model, but early Japanese safety standards were in place.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Power assist may be optional or standard depending on trim.

Seatbelts:

Standard lap and shoulder belts (three-point front, lap rear).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Typically a factory AM/FM radio, possibly with an 8-track player or cassette option depending on trim and market.

Features:

Basic driver assistance features typical of the late 1970s, such as power steering (optional) and power brakes (optional).

Features:

No modern connectivity features (e.g., Bluetooth, USB).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Typically every 3,000 miles (5,000 km) or 3 months. Consult manual for exact recommendation.

Tune Up:

Periodic tune-ups involving spark plug replacement, ignition timing adjustment, and carburetor adjustment are critical for rotary engines.

Engine Oil:

API SE or SF service category, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 viscosity (check manual for specific details).

Coolant:

50/50 mixture of ethylene glycol-based antifreeze and distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Apex Seals:

Wear of apex seals is a common concern in rotary engines, leading to compression loss. Proper maintenance and avoidance of over-revving are key.

Carburetor Issues:

Carburetors can be sensitive to dirt and require precise adjustment for optimal rotary engine performance.

Oil Consumption:

Rotary engines naturally consume a small amount of oil to lubricate apex seals; however, excessive consumption indicates a problem.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Rotary:

The RX-3 was a key model in Mazda's pioneering of the Wankel rotary engine in mass-produced vehicles, following the success of the RX-2.

Transition To Savanna:

In some markets, the RX-3 name was phased out for this generation, with the chassis (SA22C) becoming the basis for the second-generation Mazda RX-7, but the RX-3 badging persisted for the 1978 model year in many regions.

Production Years:

RX-3: 1971-1978 (with continuous chassis development).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Rotary Engine Heritage:

The Mazda rotary engine itself received significant recognition for its innovative design and performance characteristics, making the RX-3 a notable vehicle in automotive history.