Segment:
Sports Car, Rotary Performance
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY Mechanics, Professional Technicians
Competitors 1989:
Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota MR2, Porsche 944
Powertrain:
Rotary Engine, Rear-Wheel Drive
Design:
Iconic 'Windmill' Styling, Balanced Weight Distribution
Performance Focus:
High Revving Engine, Agile Handling
Engine:
Rotary Engine (13B Turbocharged), Fuel System, Ignition System, Lubrication, Cooling, Emission Control
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Clutch, Driveshaft, Differential, Axles
Suspension:
Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Steering System
Brakes:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Disc Brakes, Parking Brake, ABS (if equipped)
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting, Gauges, Wiper System, Horn, Power Windows/Locks, ECU, Sensors, Wiring Diagrams
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Interior Trim, Glass, Seats, HVAC System
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement (Rotary Specific), Tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Procedures, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting, Fault Code Interpretation
Repair:
Engine Rebuild (Rotary Apex Seal Replacement), Transmission Overhaul, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement
Installation:
Component Installation and Removal Procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic adjustments to complete overhauls and diagnostics
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic flowcharts and procedures
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Schematics
PDF Quality:
High-resolution, searchable text, printable
Printability:
Printable for workshop use
Binding:
N/A (Digital PDF Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF Download)
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel)
Configuration:
Twin Rotor
Displacement:
1.3L (1308cc)
Horsepower:
182 hp (136 kW)
Torque:
199 lb-ft (270 Nm)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (Premium Recommended)
Ignition Type:
Electronic Ignition
Oil Type Recommendation:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40
Oil Capacity:
4.5 Quarts (4.2 Liters) with filter change
Coolant Capacity:
8.4 Quarts (7.9 Liters)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Manual Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific ratios (e.g., 1st: 3.483, 2nd: 2.022, 3rd: 1.367, 4th: 1.000, 5th: 0.833)
Manual Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90
Automatic Fluid Type:
Mazda ATF-J2 or equivalent (Dexron II)
NHTSA Ratings:
Not readily available for this model year, but known for good structural integrity
Braking:
Front and Rear Ventilated Disc Brakes, Optional ABS
Handling:
Independent Suspension (MacPherson Struts Front, Tri-Link Rear), Limited Slip Differential (Optional)
Restraints:
3-Point Seat Belts, Optional Driver's Airbag (late production models)
Body Structure:
Reinforced chassis for rigidity and crash protection
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette Player, optional CD Player on higher trims.
Controls:
Analog knobs and buttons for climate and audio control.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System
Connectivity Features:
Basic, primarily focused on vehicle operation and basic comfort features.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Refer to manual; typically every 30,000 miles for apex seals, and specific plug types for each rotor face.
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (Rotary engines do not have timing belts; they use a chain or direct drive for the rotor housing).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
ATF Dexron II or equivalent
Apex Seals:
Wear and failure of apex seals is a common concern for rotary engines, leading to loss of compression and power. Requires engine rebuild.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines naturally consume some oil for lubrication. Proper monitoring and topping up is crucial. Excessive consumption indicates potential seal issues.
Turbocharger Reliability:
Can be sensitive to heat and maintenance. Regular oil changes are vital.
Emissions System:
Early models may have issues with the air pump and catalytic converter due to age and operating conditions.
Rotary Legacy:
Mazda's pioneering history with the Wankel rotary engine, dating back to the Cosmo and RX series.
First Generation Savanna Rx7:
Introduced in 1978 as the SA22C.
Second Generation Fc:
Introduced in 1985, featuring a more modern design and improved aerodynamics. This 1989 model is part of the later FC series with refinements.
Third Generation Fd:
Introduced in 1991, considered by many to be the pinnacle of the RX-7 lineage.
Production Years Fc:
1985-1992
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Car And Driver 10Best:
The RX-7 (FC generation) was featured on Car and Driver's 10Best list in 1986.
Handling Reputation:
Consistently praised for its superb handling and driver engagement.
Automotive Journalism Accolades:
Numerous positive reviews and awards from automotive publications for its performance and design.
