Segment Placement:
Compact sports coupe/sedan, aimed at performance enthusiasts seeking a distinctive driving experience.
Key Competitors:
Datsun 240Z, Toyota Corolla Levin/Sprinter Trueno (AE86 precursor), Ford Escort RS, various European small sports cars of the era.
Unique Selling Points:
Rotary engine technology, distinctive styling, agile handling, relatively affordable performance.
Manual Years Covered:
1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978
Estimated Pages:
800-1200 (typical for comprehensive workshop manuals of this era)
Manual Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual
Format:
PDF (Downloadable)
Engine Systems:
Rotary engine theory, lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery (carbureted), ignition, emissions control (early systems), engine disassembly/assembly, troubleshooting
Drivetrain Systems:
Clutch operation, manual transmission disassembly/assembly/adjustment, rear axle servicing, driveshaft inspection and repair
Chassis Systems:
Front and rear suspension (independent front, leaf spring rear), steering system diagnosis and repair, brake system overhaul (front discs, rear drums typical), wheel alignment specifications
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition switch, starter motor, alternator, battery, gauges, horn, fuses and relays, troubleshooting electrical faults
Body And Trim:
Door mechanisms, window regulators, seat adjustment, interior trim removal/installation, exterior trim, panel gaps
Maintenance Procedures:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, belt adjustments), fluid level checks, lubrication points
Repair Procedures:
Engine rebuild (rotary apex seals, rotor housing inspection), transmission rebuild, brake caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul, carburetor rebuilding, suspension component replacement
Troubleshooting Diagnostics:
Step-by-step diagnostic charts for common engine, electrical, and mechanical problems
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive: Covers from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel) Engine
Engine Displacements:
571 cc x 2 rotors (1142 cc total displacement equivalent), 654 cc x 2 rotors (1308 cc total displacement equivalent)
Engine Code Examples:
12A (early, 571cc), 12A (later, 654cc)
Horsepower Range:
80-110 hp (net) depending on year and emissions equipment
Torque Range:
75-95 lb-ft (net) depending on year and emissions equipment
Fuel Delivery:
Single or dual downdraft carburetors (e.g., Hitachi/Aisan, Mikuni Solex)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (as mandated by emissions regulations during its production run)
Body Styles:
2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan, 5-door Wagon (RX3 Station Wagon), 2-door Rotary Sports Coupe (R100 often associated, but RX3 had its own variants)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 95.5 inches (2425 mm)
Length:
Approx. 161.8 - 165.7 inches (4110 - 4209 mm) depending on body style
Width:
Approx. 63.8 inches (1620 mm)
Height:
Approx. 53.0 - 54.7 inches (1345 - 1390 mm) depending on body style
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 2000 - 2350 lbs (907 - 1066 kg)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4x110 mm
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data available from this era, however, typical safety features for the period include padded dashboards and seatbelts.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, Rear drum brakes
Seatbelts:
Standard lap and shoulder belts (front), lap belts (rear)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months
Spark Plug Inspection Interval:
Every 6,000 miles (9,600 km)
Air Filter Replacement:
As needed, typically every 12,000 miles (19,200 km) or annually
Engine Oil Specification:
API SF or SG, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended. Consult manual for exact viscosity based on temperature.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II (or equivalent)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water
Rotary Engine Wear:
Apex seal wear, rotor housing wear, oil seal failure leading to compression loss and increased oil consumption.
Carburetor Issues:
Vapor lock, fuel delivery issues, vacuum leaks, idle control problems.
Electrical Gremlins:
Corroded wiring connectors, aging insulation, failure of voltage regulators and ignition components.
Rust And Corrosion:
Common in older vehicles, particularly wheel arches, sills, and floor pans.
Mazda Rotary Legacy:
Mazda's pioneering development and mass production of the Wankel rotary engine, starting with the Cosmo Sport and continuing with models like the R100 and RX series.
Rx3 Development:
Successor to the R100, sharing platform and rotary engine technology. Offered in various body styles to appeal to a broader market. Known for its distinctive styling and sporty character.
Production Period:
1971-1978
Key Markets:
Japan, North America, Australia, Europe
