Market Position:
The 1980 Mazda RX-7 represented Mazda's initial foray into the affordable sports car segment, offering unique rotary engine technology and distinctive styling.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with vehicles like the Datsun Z-cars (240Z/260Z/280Z) and Toyota Celica Supra, differentiating itself with the Wankel rotary engine's smooth power delivery and compact size.
Key Features:
Lightweight construction, rear-wheel drive, sophisticated front suspension, and the iconic rotary engine.
Manual Usefulness:
Essential for maintaining, diagnosing, and repairing the 1980 RX-7, providing factory-level accuracy and detail for all vehicle systems.
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip
Operating System Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows (including Vista 32/64, XP, ME, 98, NT, 2000) & Mac
Page Count Estimate:
Estimated 1500+ pages (based on typical factory service manual depth for this era)
Manual Type:
Factory Service & Repair Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Rotary engine (12A) internal components, assembly, disassembly, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition system.
Engine Management:
Ignition timing, carburetor systems (likely Hitachi or similar), emissions control systems (SAS, EGR), troubleshooting diagnostic codes.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (W55/W56 type), clutch system, driveshaft, rear axle, differential.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake, bleeding procedures.
Suspension:
Front independent suspension (MacPherson struts), rear solid axle with Watt's linkage, shock absorbers, springs, bushings.
Steering:
Rack and pinion steering system, steering column, power steering system (if equipped).
Electrical System:
12V electrical system, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting system, gauges, switches, relays, fuses.
Body And Chassis:
Body construction, frame, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, glass, seals, body repair procedures.
Wiring Schematics:
Complete vehicle wiring diagrams, color-coded for easy tracing of circuits.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, lubrication, tune-up procedures.
Diagnosis And Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common faults, pinpoint tests, symptom-based troubleshooting.
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, overhaul, and replacement.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values, emissions data.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from basic maintenance to complete engine and drivetrain rebuilds, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Type:
Wankel Rotary
Displacement:
1.1 L (65.1 cu in) (Apparent displacement, actual rotor swept volume is lower, but industry standard comparison)
Horsepower:
Approx. 100-110 hp (depending on market and emissions equipment)
Torque:
Approx. 105-115 lb-ft (depending on market and emissions equipment)
Fuel System:
Carbureted (likely a single or dual barrel Hitachi carburetor)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Acceleration 0 60 Mph:
Approx. 9.5 - 11 seconds (highly dependent on driver and conditions)
Length:
Approx. 164.0 inches (4166 mm)
Width:
Approx. 65.6 inches (1666 mm)
Height:
Approx. 49.9 inches (1268 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2250 lbs (1020 kg)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 95.7 inches (2430 mm)
Wheel Size:
13-inch or 14-inch wheels
Tire Size:
Commonly 185/70R13 or 195/60R14
Safety Ratings:
NHTSA and IIHS ratings from 1980 are not readily available or comparable to modern standards. Focus is on active safety features.
Active Features:
Responsive steering, well-balanced chassis, effective braking system for its era.
Passive Features:
Three-point seatbelts, padded dashboard, safety glass.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual; rotary plugs have specific intervals and types.
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (Rotary engines do not have timing belts; they use internal timing gears/chains).
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual for specific viscosity grade (e.g., 10W-30 or 10W-40) and API service classification.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Known Issues:
Apex seal wear (common in rotary engines if not properly maintained or driven), carburation issues, ignition system reliability, potential for rust due to age.
Rotary Specific Maintenance:
Importance of proper warm-up and cool-down procedures, regular inspection of engine oil and coolant levels, and use of high-quality spark plugs.
