Positioning:
The Mazda RX-2 was a sporty compact car introduced in the early 1970s, aiming to compete with established Japanese and European marques. It was a significant model for Mazda, showcasing their commitment to rotary engine technology.
Competitors:
Competed with vehicles like the Datsun 510, Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort, and various European compacts. Its unique rotary engine offered a distinct performance and refinement advantage.
Rotary Engine:
The primary selling point and defining characteristic of the RX-2 was its Wankel rotary engine, providing a smooth, high-revving driving experience.
Styling:
The RX-2 featured contemporary styling for its era, often praised for its clean lines and sporty appearance, available in coupe and sedan variants.
Availability:
Produced for a relatively short period, making original documentation and parts increasingly scarce.
Engine:
Rotary engine (12A) – disassembly, assembly, lubrication, cooling, ignition, fuel, emissions controls.
Transmission:
Manual transmission – removal, installation, overhaul, clutch assembly.
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive, driveshaft, differential, axle shafts.
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (MacPherson struts), rear leaf spring suspension, steering system.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, brake system hydraulic components, troubleshooting.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, accessories.
Fuel System:
Carburetor(s) (likely Hitachi or Mikuni), fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines.
Cooling System:
Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, coolant flow.
Bodywork:
Body panel adjustments, trim removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass replacement.
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:
HVAC system components and operation (likely basic heating and ventilation).
Maintenance:
Regular service checks, lubrication, fluid changes, filter replacements, spark plug inspection/replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common mechanical and electrical issues.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation.
Overhaul:
Complete engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, brake caliper/wheel cylinder rebuild.
Specifications:
Torque values, clearances, timing settings, fluid capacities, and other critical specifications.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Two-rotor Wankel (Rotary)
Displacement:
1146 cc (69.9 cu in)
Rotor Housing Diameter:
70 mm
Compression Ratio:
9.4:1 (typical)
Horsepower:
Approximately 90-100 hp @ 6500 rpm (varies by market and emissions control).
Torque:
Approximately 100-110 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (varies).
Carburetion:
Single twin-choke downdraft carburetor (e.g., Hitachi/Mikuni)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (premium recommended)
Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5-5.0 liters (with filter).
Oil Type:
API SE/SF rated, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (check specific manual for exact specs).
Type:
4-speed manual transmission
Type:
3-speed automatic transmission (less common)
Clutch Type:
Dry single-plate clutch
Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90)
Transmission Fluid Capacity:
Approximately 1.8-2.0 liters.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2475 mm (97.4 inches)
Length:
Approximately 4130 mm (162.6 inches)
Width:
Approximately 1600 mm (63.0 inches)
Height:
Approximately 1355 mm (53.3 inches)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 950-1050 kg (2090-2315 lbs), depending on body style and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not commonly specified in manuals of this era but generally around 1400 kg.
Crash Testing:
No modern crash safety ratings available for this era of vehicle. Safety features were basic.
Brakes:
Front disc, rear drum brakes. Power assist may be optional.
Steering:
Recirculating ball steering, typically non-power assist.
Seatbelts:
Lap belts standard, shoulder belts may be optional depending on market and trim.
Body Structure:
Unibody construction with basic crumple zones.
Oil Change:
Every 5,000 km (3,000 miles) or 6 months, whichever comes first.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles) or annually.
Spark Plug Inspection:
Every 10,000 km (6,000 miles). Replacement recommended at 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Ignition Timing Adjustment:
Check every 20,000 km (12,000 miles).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Washer Fluid:
Water or approved windshield washer fluid.
Apex Seals:
Wear or failure of apex seals is a common rotary engine issue, leading to compression loss and poor performance. Requires engine rebuild.
Carburetor Issues:
Carburetor tuning can be sensitive; vacuum leaks or worn components can affect fuel mixture and idle quality.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines inherently consume some oil for lubrication. Excessive consumption can indicate seal wear.
Cooling System:
Overheating can be an issue if the cooling system is not meticulously maintained. Check radiator, hoses, and water pump.
Electrical Gremlins:
Aging wiring harnesses and connectors can lead to intermittent electrical problems.
Rotary Pioneering:
Mazda's history is inextricably linked with the Wankel rotary engine, beginning with the Cosmo and continuing with models like the RX-2, RX-3, RX-4, and later the RX-7 series. This commitment set them apart.
Predecessor:
The RX-2 (Capella Rotary) followed the Mazda R100 (Familia Rotary) and shared its platform with the Mazda Capella (Capella Rotary).
Successor:
The RX-2 was succeeded by the RX-3 (Savanna Rotary) in most markets.
Production Years:
1970-1978 (production dates vary slightly by market).
Manufacturing Locations:
Japan.
