Positioning:
Iconic Japanese sports car, renowned for rotary engine technology and handling prowess
Competitors:
Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Toyota Supra (Mk IV), Mitsubishi 3000GT
Handling:
Near 50/50 weight distribution, sophisticated multi-link suspension, praised for balance and agility
Engine Type:
Sequential Twin-Turbocharged Rotary Engine (13B-REW)
Design:
Sleek, aerodynamic 'bubbleback' styling
Powertrain:
Engine (Rotary 13B-REW), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (RWD), Differential, Driveshafts, Axles
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Front & Rear), Wheels, Tires
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, ECUs, Sensors, Lighting, Power Accessories, Charging System, Starting System
Body:
Exterior Panels, Interior Trim, Doors, Windows, Seats, HVAC System
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), symptom-based troubleshooting
Repair:
Component removal and installation, overhaul procedures, adjustments
Special Tools:
Identification and use of specialized tools required for specific procedures
Depth:
Advanced diagnostics, complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, electrical system troubleshooting, body repair
Configuration:
Twin-Rotor, Naturally Aspirated (later Twin-Turbocharged)
Displacement:
1308 cc (80.0 cu in)
Horsepower Sequential Turbo:
255 hp @ 6500 rpm (early FD)
Torque Sequential Turbo:
217 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (early FD)
Type:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with sequential twin-turbochargers
Type:
Distributorless ignition system (DIS) with twin ignition coils per rotor
Type:
Liquid-cooled, pressurized system with intercooler
Type:
Pressurized wet sump with oil cooler
Apex Seals:
Critical component requiring specific lubrication and maintenance
Length:
Approx. 167.7 inches (4260 mm)
Width:
Approx. 69.1 inches (1755 mm)
Height:
Approx. 47.8 inches (1215 mm)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 95.7 inches (2430 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2800-3000 lbs (1270-1360 kg)
Gross Weight:
Varies by trim and options
Crash Test Results:
N/A (FMVSS standards of the era)
Braking:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) standard on most models
Suspension Stability:
Advanced suspension design contributes to stability
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags standard
Seat Belts:
Three-point inertia-reel seat belts
Audio System:
Factory premium audio system, often with cassette and CD player
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control (on higher trims)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control system
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era; primarily focused on analog systems
Oil Change:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months (depending on driving conditions)
Spark Plugs:
Refer to manual; typically at higher mileage intervals, specific rotary plugs required
Timing Belt:
N/A (Rotary engines do not have timing belts, but a timing chain/sprocket system)
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific recommendations, especially for rotary oil additive)
Coolant:
Mazda Long Life Coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual)
Power Steering Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent
Apex Seal Wear:
Premature wear can lead to compression loss, requiring engine rebuild. Proper warm-up/cool-down and oil management are crucial.
Sequential Turbo Failure:
Failure of the primary or secondary turbocharger, or related control solenoids.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines inherently consume some oil as part of their lubrication system. Monitor levels closely.
Vacuum Lines And Emissions:
Degradation of rubber components in the vacuum and emissions systems can cause performance issues.
Car And Driver 10Best:
Car and Driver's 10Best list multiple times in the early 1990s
Motor Trend Import Car Of The Year:
Nominee/Winner in various publications for its performance and handling
Handling Praise:
Consistently lauded by automotive journalists for exceptional handling and driver feedback.
