Troubleshooting guides for common and uncommon issues
Installation Procedures:
Installation of specific components and accessories (likely inferred)
Technical Depth
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for 'Do-It-Yourself' enthusiasts and professional technicians
Detail Level:
Detailed technical data, diagrams, and step-by-step instructions
Part Information:
Complete list of parts and pictures
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Type:
PDF
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable, aiding quick information retrieval
Print Quality
Print Output:
Printable pages for workshop use
Binding Type
Physical Binding:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type
Physical Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel)
Engine Displacement Cc:
1146 cc (70.3 cu in) - Equivalent rotor housing displacement. Often referred to as 1.1L or 1.2L
Engine Code:
12A (Rotary)
Performance
Horsepower Gross Ps:
Approximately 90-100 PS (Gross) depending on specific market and emissions controls for 1975.
Torque Gross Lb-Ft:
Approximately 100-110 lb-ft (Gross) depending on specific market and emissions controls for 1975.
Fuel System
Carburetion:
Typically twin-barrel carburetor(s).
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (as regulations began to mandate)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type Standard:
4-speed Manual
Optional
Transmission Type Optional:
3-speed Automatic
Features
Clutch Type:
Single dry plate (for manual transmission)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Styles:
Coupe, Sedan, Station Wagon
Wheelbase Mm:
Approx. 2400 mm (94.5 inches)
Length Mm:
Approx. 4150-4350 mm (163.4-171.3 inches) depending on body style
Width Mm:
Approx. 1600-1630 mm (63.0-64.2 inches)
Weights
Curb Weight Kg:
Approx. 950-1050 kg (2094-2315 lbs) depending on body style and equipment
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Safety Ratings Era:
Safety standards of the mid-1970s. Less stringent than modern standards.
Active Features
Braking System:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes
Steering Type:
Recirculating ball steering system.
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
Standard lap and shoulder belts
Body Construction:
Unitary body construction, intended for crash energy absorption relative to the era.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio, potentially with an 8-track player or cassette player depending on trim level and market.
Driver Assistance
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not a standard or common option for this model year.
Connectivity
Connection Ports:
N/A (No modern connectivity features like USB or Bluetooth).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval Miles:
Typically 3,000-5,000 miles, or as specified in the manual. Rotary engines require specific oil quality and levels.
Spark Plug Replacement Miles:
Varies, but typically around 15,000-20,000 miles for the specific rotary-compatible plugs.
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (Rotary engines do not use timing belts; they use chains or direct drive for the rotors).
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
API SF or SG classification, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 recommended (specific rotary oil requirements should be confirmed in the manual).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. Capacity and mixture ratio specified in the manual.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 (check manual for exact spec).
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron II or equivalent (check manual for exact spec).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Known Issues
Apex Seals:
Wear of apex seals is a common concern for all rotary engines, affecting compression and performance over time. Proper lubrication and avoiding over-revving are critical.
Carburetor Tuning:
Carburetors can require periodic adjustment and cleaning due to age and fuel variability.
Cooling System Maintenance:
Regular flushing and inspection of the cooling system is vital for rotary engine longevity.
Electrical Connections:
Corrosion and degradation of electrical connections are common in vehicles of this age.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Focus:
Mazda's pioneering work with rotary engine technology.
Model Evolution
Positioning:
The RX-3 was Mazda's sporty compact offering, bridging the gap between the smaller RX-2 and the larger RX-4, showcasing the performance potential of the rotary engine.
Body Style Introduction:
Introduced in 1971, the RX-3 evolved through various updates, with the 1975 model representing a refined iteration.
Production
Production Period:
1971-1978
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Rotary Prowess:
The RX-3, powered by the innovative Wankel rotary engine, contributed significantly to Mazda's reputation for performance and engineering distinctiveness in the 1970s.
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