🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-2 (also known as 616)

Model Code:

LA2

Year:

1970

Generation:

First Generation

Chassis Code:

LA2

👋 Introduction

Market Introduction:

The Mazda RX-2 (616) was a significant model for Mazda, representing their early foray into mass production of rotary-engine vehicles for a global market. It aimed to compete with established compact and sporty cars of the era, offering unique performance and refinement.

Competitors:

Competed against vehicles like the Datsun 240Z, Toyota Corona, Honda Civic (later models), and other sporty coupes and sedans of its time.

Rotary Engine:

Key selling proposition was the advanced Wankel rotary engine, offering smooth operation and a high power-to-weight ratio.

Design:

Stylish coupe and sedan body styles, contributing to its sporty image.

Manual Value:

This manual is essential for owners and technicians of the 1970 Mazda RX-2/616, providing the in-depth technical knowledge required for proper maintenance, repair, and diagnosis, crucial for preserving these classic rotary vehicles.

📋 Manual Details

Systems Covered:

General Information, Engine Mechanical, Engine Lubrication, Engine Cooling, Engine Control, Fuel System, Exhaust System, Accelerator Control, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Propeller Shaft, Rear Final Drive, Front Axle, Rear Axle, Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Brake System, Parking Brake, Brake Control, Steering Control, Seat Belts, SRS, Body/Lock/Security, Glasses/Window/Mirrors, Exterior/Interior, Instrument Panel, Seats, Automatic Air Conditioner, Starting/Charging, Lighting, Driver Information, Wiper/Washer/Horn, Body Control, LAN System, Audio Visual/Navigation/Telephone, Auto Cruise Control, Power Supply/Ground/Circuit Elements, Maintenance

Page Count:

Estimated 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era, specific count not provided in product info)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual / Repair Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine Mechanical, Lubrication, Cooling, Control, Fuel, Exhaust, Accelerator Control, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Propeller Shaft, Rear Final Drive

Chassis:

Front Axle, Rear Axle, Front Suspension, Rear Suspension, Brake System, Parking Brake, Brake Control, Steering Control

Electrical:

Starting & Charging, Lighting System, Driver Information System, Power Supply, Ground & Circuit Elements

Body And Interior:

Body, Lock & Security, Glasses, Window & Mirrors, Exterior & Interior, Instrument Panel, Seat, Automatic Air Conditioner

Safety And Comfort:

Seat Belts, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Wiper, Washer & Horn, Auto Cruise Control System

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, tune-ups, inspections

Repair Procedures:

Engine overhaul, transmission repair, brake service, suspension component replacement, electrical system diagnostics and repair, body panel repair, interior trim removal and installation

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, electrical system testing, engine performance analysis

Depth Of Coverage:

Comprehensive (suitable for dealership technicians, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and complex diagnostics)

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Delivery Method:

Instant Download (.rar/.zip)

File Compression:

RAR/ZIP (requires WinZip, WinRAR, or 7-Zip)

Required Software:

PDF Reader (e.g., Adobe Acrobat Reader), File Archiver

Printability:

Printable

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Text Search:

Likely searchable text within the PDF (standard for professional manuals)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Wankel Rotary

Engine Code:

10A

Displacement:

993 cc (59.6 cu in) - each rotor chamber

Rotor Design:

Two-rotor, single-shaft

Horsepower:

Approx. 100-110 PS (74-81 kW; 99-109 hp) at 6000-6500 RPM (depending on market and tuning)

Torque:

Approx. 130-140 Nm (96-103 lb-ft) at 3500-4000 RPM (depending on market and tuning)

Fuel Delivery:

Carbureted (typically a 2-barrel carburetor)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (or leaded depending on market regulations at the time)

Oil Type:

Rotary specific engine oil (e.g., SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40, high-quality mineral or semi-synthetic recommended for older engines)

Cooling Method:

Water-cooled

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Manual

Transmission Type:

3-speed Automatic (optional on some models)

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate clutch

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios detailed within the manual for both manual and automatic transmissions

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (refer to manual for exact specification)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron III or equivalent (refer to manual for exact specification)

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2475 mm (97.4 in)

Length:

Approx. 4145 mm (163.2 in) Coupe / 4180 mm (164.6 in) Sedan

Width:

Approx. 1600 mm (63.0 in)

Height:

Approx. 1375 mm (54.1 in) Coupe / 1385 mm (54.5 in) Sedan

Curb Weight:

Approx. 940 - 1050 kg (2070 - 2315 lbs) depending on body style and options

Gross Vehicle Weight:

Specific GVWR detailed in manual

Wheel Size:

Typically 13-inch or 14-inch wheels

Tire Size:

Commonly 175/70 R13 or 185/70 R13 (refer to manual for precise fitment)

Bolt Pattern:

4x110mm

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

N/A (Vehicle safety standards and testing were less stringent and standardized in 1970 compared to modern vehicles. Manual will detail available safety features).

Braking System:

Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes (standard for the era). Manual covers hydraulic system, caliper/drum servicing, parking brake.

Steering System:

Recirculating ball steering (manual covers system inspection, adjustment, and component replacement)

Seat Belts:

Front lap and shoulder belts (standard, details on adjustment and inspection covered).

Srs:

Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) - Airbags were not standard or typically available in 1970. This section likely refers to passive restraint systems like seatbelt pre-tensioners if fitted on later models of this generation, or potentially just structural safety.

Body Structure:

Body integrity, door locks, security system components discussed in manual.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio, often with a single speaker. Manual covers removal, installation, and basic troubleshooting of the audio unit.

Cruise Control:

Auto Cruise Control System is listed, indicating this feature was available on some higher trims, a relatively advanced feature for 1970. Manual covers its operation and service.

Connectivity Features:

N/A (No modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB were present. The manual lists 'LAN System' which likely refers to internal vehicle wiring networks or diagnostic ports of the era, not a communication network as understood today).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (refer to manual for specific interval based on driving conditions).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Rotary engines often require specific spark plug types and replacement intervals, which will be detailed in the manual.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 12,000-15,000 miles or annually.

Engine Coolant:

50/50 mixture of distilled water and ethylene glycol based coolant (refer to manual for specific type and capacity).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (refer to manual for precise specification and capacity).

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 Liters (refer to manual)

Apex Seals:

Premature wear or failure of apex seals is a common concern with early rotary engines. Proper maintenance, warm-up procedures, and avoiding detonation are critical. The manual will detail inspection and replacement procedures.

Carburetor Issues:

Carburetors may require periodic cleaning, adjustment, or rebuilding due to age and fuel quality changes. Manual provides diagnostic and adjustment steps.

Oil Consumption:

Rotary engines inherently consume a small amount of oil as part of their lubrication system. The manual will specify normal consumption rates.

Thermal Management:

Early rotary engines could be sensitive to overheating. Maintaining the cooling system is paramount. Manual covers coolant flow and radiator checks.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Rotary Pioneering:

Mazda's commitment to the Wankel rotary engine began with the Cosmo Sport in 1967. The RX-2 (616) solidified Mazda's position as a leader in rotary technology, showcasing its viability for mass production.

Rx Series:

The RX-2 followed the RX-78 (Cosmo Sport) and preceded the RX-3 (818). It was a crucial step in refining the rotary platform and expanding Mazda's sporty car offerings.

Production Years:

1970-1978

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

Rotary Acceptance:

The RX-2 helped build consumer awareness and acceptance of rotary engines, highlighting their smooth power delivery and compact size, despite initial concerns about fuel economy and apex seal longevity.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Rotary Engine Technology:

While the RX-2 itself may not have specific named awards, it was instrumental in establishing Mazda's reputation for innovative rotary engine technology, which was recognized across the automotive industry.