🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX3 / RX-3

Generation:

First Generation

Model Codes:

S102, S124A, S124B, S132, S132A, S132B, S132C

👋 Introduction

Market Segment:

Compact Sports Coupe/Sedan

Competitors:

Datsun 240Z, Toyota Celica, Ford Escort (performance variants), other small sporty coupes of the era.

Unique Selling Proposition:

Rotary engine technology, sporty styling, affordable performance.

Target Users:

Professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics with basic electrical and mechanical knowledge.

Value For Owners:

Provides factory-level repair information to enable informed maintenance and repair decisions, potentially saving significant costs.

📋 Manual Details

Covered Years:

1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978

Estimated Page Count:

Likely 1000+ pages (typical for a comprehensive factory-style service manual of this era)

Type:

Repair Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip

Operating Systems:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine And Powertrain:

Rotary (Wankel) engine operation, disassembly, assembly, lubrication, cooling, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, rotary specific maintenance.

Transmission And Drivetrain:

Manual transmission overhaul, clutch system, driveshaft, differential, axle shafts.

Chassis And Suspension:

Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, springs, steering system, power steering (if applicable).

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, brake system diagnostics, hydraulic system, parking brake.

Electrical:

Wiring diagrams, battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting system, instrumentation, accessories, fuse box.

Body:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass, trim, interior components, seats, dashboard.

Maintenance:

Routine maintenance checks, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid), filter replacements, tune-ups, lubrication points.

Diagnostics And Troubleshooting:

Systematic troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics for engine, electrical, and mechanical issues.

Repair And Overhaul:

Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, cleaning, assembly, and reinstallation.

Technical Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values.

Depth:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, aiding in diagnosis of electrical faults.

Engine Rebuild:

Detailed procedures for complete rotary engine disassembly, component inspection, part replacement (apex seals, side seals, springs, O-rings, gaskets), and reassembly.

Ignition System Tuning:

Setting dwell angle, ignition timing, spark plug gap, and troubleshooting ignition circuit faults.

Completeness:

Likely a full factory service manual equivalent, providing end-to-end repair and maintenance information.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Printability:

Full Printable

Zoom Functionality:

YES (Zoom IN/OUT)

Binding Type:

Digital Download (No physical binding)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel) Engine

Engine Variants:

12A (571cc x 2 chambers = 1142cc effective displacement)

Horsepower Range:

Approximately 100-135 HP (depending on specific market and engine variant/tuning)

Torque Range:

Approximately 110-125 lb-ft

Carburetion:

Single or twin Weber side-draft carburetors, or Hitachi/Mikuni carburetors depending on trim and market. Later models may have fuel injection.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (as regulations evolved)

Rotary Specific Maintenance:

Apex seal wear, oil metering, coolant seal integrity, carbon build-up, engine oil type and viscosity critical.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed manual transmission (standard on many models)

Transmission Type Optional:

3-speed automatic transmission (optional on some variants)

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate clutch

Transmission Fluid Type:

GL-4 gear oil (e.g., SAE 80W-90, specific Mazda recommendation crucial)

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

Coupe, Sedan, Hatchback (RX3 Wagon/Van also existed but less common in global markets)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2,200 - 2,500 lbs (1000 - 1135 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings Era:

NHTSA/IIHS ratings not available for this era; primarily based on manufacturer safety features and design principles of the time.

Active Safety:

Disc front brakes, adequate handling for its class.

Passive Safety:

Seat belts, strong chassis construction for the era.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio, optional 8-track player or cassette deck. Analog instrumentation.

Driver Assistance Features:

None; technology of the era was focused on mechanical systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first. Critical for rotary engines.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Check and clean every 15,000 miles (24,000 km); replace as needed. Specific spark plug types are critical for rotary engines.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Engine Oil Specification:

API SF or SG category oil, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended for most climates. Consult manual for exact specs. Rotary-specific oils or additives for apex seals are often recommended by enthusiasts.

Coolant Specification:

Ethylene glycol based coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mazda specific coolant or equivalent.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Common Wear Items:

Apex seals, side seals, O-rings, vacuum lines, ignition components (points, condenser, coil), carburetor wear, rust (especially wheel arches and sills).

Rotary Engine Specific Concerns:

Overheating, loss of compression due to apex seal wear, oil consumption (normal within limits), thermal degradation of seals, carbon build-up on rotors.

Preventative Tips:

Regularly check oil level, ensure cooling system is pristine, avoid prolonged idling, use high-quality fuel, gentle on engine when cold.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Heritage:

Mazda's early foray into rotary engine technology, building upon the NSU license and their own development.

Rx3 Evolution:

Introduced in 1971, it was a significant step in Mazda's performance lineup, evolving through various styling and mechanical updates during its production run. It bridged the gap between the R100 and the RX-4.

Production Period:

1971-1978

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Recognition:

Highly regarded for its sporty character and rotary engine, it was a significant competitor in its segment. Often praised for its handling and unique engine note.