🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Year:

1980

Chassis Code:

SA22C

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel)

Engine Code:

12A

Trim Levels Covered:

GS, LS, S (or equivalent regional designations)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1980 Mazda RX-7 (SA22C generation) represented a unique offering in the sports coupe market, prioritizing lightweight design and rotary engine technology.

Target Audience:

Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and restoration specialists seeking to maintain or repair their classic RX-7.

Competitors:

Competed against vehicles like the Datsun Z-cars, Toyota Celica, and Porsche 924, differentiating itself with its unique rotary powertrain.

Powertrain Advantage:

The compact and smooth-revving 12A rotary engine provided a distinctive driving experience and a low center of gravity.

Design Philosophy:

Emphasis on lightweight construction, balanced handling, and a driver-focused cockpit.

Iconic Status:

The first generation RX-7 is a celebrated icon in Japanese automotive history, lauded for its pure sports car essence.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Full Workshop and Repair Procedures

Secondary Coverage:

Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Wiring Diagrams, Component Specifications

Estimated Pages:

Approximately 800-1000 pages (typical for this era's comprehensive manuals)

Type:

Workshop Manual / Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Rotary engine teardown, assembly, apex seal inspection, rotor housing wear, oil metering system, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel injection system (Bosch L-Jetronic or similar early systems)

Transmission:

Manual gearbox (W53, W58) overhaul, clutch replacement, driveshaft and differential service

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake operation and adjustment

Suspension:

Front strut suspension, rear multi-link independent suspension, shock absorber replacement, spring replacement, alignment specifications

Steering:

Rack and pinion steering system, power steering pump and lines, steering column components

Electrical:

Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box layout, ignition system, charging system (alternator, starter), lighting, instrumentation, power windows (if equipped)

Fuel System:

Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, carburetor (if applicable for base models) or fuel injection system maintenance

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant types and capacities

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (early California models), muffler, pipe routing and replacement

Body:

Door panel removal, interior trim, bumper replacement, body panel alignment, glass replacement

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed step-by-step procedures for complete engine teardown and reassembly, including apex seal replacement and rotor housing refurbishment.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic flowcharts and common problem/solution guides for ignition, fuel, and mechanical issues.

Maintenance:

Regular service tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug changes, brake fluid flushes, and coolant changes.

Diagnostics:

Procedures for checking ignition timing, fuel pressure, compression (rotary specific), and electrical circuit testing.

Component Replacement:

Detailed instructions for replacing major components like the alternator, starter motor, water pump, fuel pump, and brake calipers.

Timing Adjustment:

Correct procedures for setting ignition timing and idle speed.

Lubrication System:

Oil metering pump adjustment and replacement, ensuring proper lubrication for the rotary engine.

Cooling System Flush:

Proper procedures for draining, flushing, and refilling the cooling system with the correct coolant.

Brake Bleeding:

Step-by-step instructions for bleeding the brake system to remove air.

Wheel Alignment:

Specifications and procedures for adjusting wheel alignment.

Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from routine maintenance to full engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics.

Detail Level:

Highly detailed, with torque specifications, clearances, and tolerances for all critical components.

Diagnostic Tools:

Includes information on using basic diagnostic tools and interpreting results for rotary-specific issues.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Likely text-searchable PDF for easy navigation

Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation

Clarity:

Clear diagrams, illustrations, and text

Binding:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

12A

Configuration:

Two-rotor Wankel rotary engine

Displacement:

1146 cc (69.9 cu in) (equivalent displacement often quoted as 2.3L for tax purposes)

Rotor Housing Material:

Chrome-plated aluminum alloy

Apex Seals:

Three-piece carbon-graphite or similar composite material

Horsepower:

100-110 hp @ 6000-6500 rpm (depending on market and emissions controls)

Torque:

103-114 lb-ft @ 3500-4000 rpm

Redline:

Approximately 7000 rpm

Induction Type:

Fuel Injection (Bosch L-Jetronic or similar) or Carburetor (base models)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (minimum 87 octane recommended)

Fuel Pressure:

Approximately 30-45 psi (for FI systems)

Oil Type:

API SG/SH or newer, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for exact specs)

Oil Capacity:

Approximately 5.5 quarts (5.2 liters) with filter

Oil Metering Pump:

Mechanical pump injecting pre-mix oil into intake ports

🔧 Transmission

Type:

5-speed Manual

Model Codes:

W53, W58

Type:

3-speed Automatic (less common)

Clutch Type:

Dry single plate

Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (check manual for exact viscosity and specification)

Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 2.0 liters

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4200 mm (165.4 in)

Width:

1650 mm (65.0 in)

Height:

1270 mm (50.0 in)

Wheelbase:

2400 mm (94.5 in)

Front Track:

1370 mm (53.9 in)

Rear Track:

1375 mm (54.1 in)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 1000-1070 kg (2205-2359 lbs) depending on trim and options

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1300 kg (2866 lbs)

Weight Distribution:

Excellent balance, close to 50/50 front/rear due to rotary engine placement.

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rating:

Not rated under modern standards; structural integrity and occupant protection were basic for the era.

Brakes:

Front ventilated discs, rear drums. Optional rear disc brakes on some models.

Steering:

Recirculating ball or Rack and Pinion depending on market. Optional power steering.

Seatbelts:

Three-point front seatbelts, lap belts in rear.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cage, impact-absorbing front and rear crumple zones (primitive by modern standards).

Headlights:

Pop-up halogen headlights

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM radio with cassette player, often with optional graphic equalizer.

Dashboard:

Driver-focused dashboard with tachometer, speedometer, fuel, and temperature gauges. Some models featured an oil pressure gauge.

ABS:

Not typically available on 1980 models.

Cruise Control:

Optional on higher trim levels.

Connectivity Features:

None by modern standards.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, whichever comes first (crucial for rotary engines).

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 15,000-20,000 miles (rotary engines require specific spark plug types and proper gap).

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2 years.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles.

Engine Oil:

API SG/SH or newer, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for specific recommendations)

Coolant:

Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mazda 'Blue' coolant or equivalent (check manual).

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (refer to manual).

Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Apex Seal Wear:

Premature wear of apex seals due to improper lubrication, overheating, or detonation. A common Achilles' heel of early rotaries.

Carbon Buildup:

Carbon deposits can accumulate in the combustion chambers and exhaust ports, leading to reduced performance and starting issues.

Oil Consumption:

Rotary engines naturally consume oil as part of their lubrication process; however, excessive consumption can indicate worn seals.

Cooling System Leaks:

Aging hoses and radiator components can lead to coolant leaks, which can quickly cause overheating in a rotary.

Thermal Isors:

Failure of thermal route sensors or associated wiring impacting fuel injection and ignition timing.

Carburetor Tuning:

Carbureted models may require frequent tuning due to sensitive nature and environmental factors.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Rotary Development:

Mazda's commitment to rotary engine technology, starting with the Cosmo Sport and continuing with the RX series.

First Generation:

The SA22C generation, produced from 1978 to 1985, established the RX-7 as a capable and unique sports car. 1980 model year features minor updates from the initial launch.

Facelift:

The 1981 model year saw a significant facelift and chassis updates.

Production Years:

1978-1985 (for the SA22C generation)

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

Sales Figures:

Achieved strong sales globally, cementing Mazda's reputation in the sports car segment.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Ten Best:

Named to Car and Driver's Ten Best list multiple times during its production run, highlighting its performance and handling.

Motor Trend Import Car Of The Year:

Nominated and recognized for its innovative design and driving dynamics.

General Reception:

Critically acclaimed for its handling, unique engine, and stylish design, making it a desirable sports car of its era.