Positioning:
The Mazda RX-7 was a groundbreaking sports car that established Mazda's reputation for innovative engineering, particularly with its rotary engine. It competed against established European sports cars and offered a unique driving experience.
Competitors:
Datsun Z-cars (280Z), Toyota Celica Supra, Porsche 924, Chevrolet Camaro.
Rotary Engine:
The Wankel rotary engine provided a compact, smooth, and high-revving power unit, distinguishing the RX-7 from its piston-engine rivals.
Styling:
Sleek, aerodynamic, and distinctive styling with pop-up headlights, a hallmark of 1970s and 1980s sports car design.
Handling:
Lightweight construction and a balanced chassis contributed to excellent handling characteristics.
Engine Mechanical:
Rotary engine internal components, lubrication, cooling, timing, sealing systems.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (likely Hitachi or Nikki twin-choke), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank, evaporative emission control.
Ignition System:
Distributor, ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition timing, electronic control unit (if applicable for the year).
Electrical System:
Charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), battery, wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, accessories.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (likely 4 or 5-speed), clutch system, automatic transmission (optional).
Drivetrain:
Propeller shaft, universal joints, differential, rear axle, wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front suspension (struts, control arms, anti-roll bar), rear suspension (live axle, trailing arms, Panhard rod, shocks), alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (typically), brake fluid, master cylinder, power booster, parking brake system.
Steering:
Steering gear, steering column, tie rods, steering linkage, power steering system (if equipped).
HVAC:
Air conditioning system (compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant), heating system, ventilation.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seats, glass, mirrors, weatherstripping.
Emission Control:
Air injection system, PCV system, exhaust system, catalytic converter (if applicable).
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant checks, belt adjustments, lubrication points.
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper service, suspension component replacement, electrical system diagnostics.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting common issues, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) with specific procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail, covering everything from basic fluid checks to full engine disassembly and reassembly.
Diagnostics Level:
Advanced diagnostics, including specific fault isolation steps and troubleshooting trees.
Diagrams Illustrations:
High-definition diagrams and photographs supporting step-by-step instructions.
Engine Type:
Naturally Aspirated Wankel Rotary
Displacement:
1146 cc (equivalent to approx. 2.3L piston displacement for tax purposes)
Horsepower:
100-105 hp @ 6000 rpm (SAE Gross)
Torque:
117 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (SAE Gross)
Carburetion:
Hitachi 40mm twin-choke downdraft carburetor (common for US models)
Ignition Control:
Electronic ignition system (for this year).
Cooling Type:
Water-cooled rotary engine with large radiator and fan.
Oil System:
Pressurized oil system with a dedicated oil cooler. Crucial: separate oil injection system for apex seals.
Crash Test Results:
No standardized crash test ratings were widely available for vehicles of this era as they are today. The manual will provide structural repair information.
Braking System:
Front vented disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Power assisted with dual hydraulic circuits.
Steering System:
Recirculating ball steering, with optional power steering.
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts
Body Structure:
Integrated safety cage and crumple zones, as per design of the era.
Engine Oil Change:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (typically recommended, check manual for specifics).
Oil Filter Change:
With every oil change.
Spark Plug Service:
Refer to manual; typically around 20,000-30,000 miles for platinum tip plugs.
Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (verify with manual; high-zinc content oils often recommended for rotaries).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF.
Differential Fluid:
GL-5 gear oil, SAE 80W-90 or 85W-140.
Rotary Oil Injection:
Specific 2-stroke or rotary engine oil blend for the injection system (refer to manual for exact specification).
Apex Seal Wear:
Premature apex seal wear can occur if the engine is not properly maintained or if oil injection fails. Critical to follow lubrication procedures.
Carburetor Tuning:
Carburetors can require regular tuning and cleaning to maintain optimal performance and fuel economy.
Cooling System Maintenance:
Rotary engines generate significant heat; a well-maintained cooling system is essential to prevent overheating.
