Original Market Segment:
Affordable sports car, coupe.
Key Competitors:
Datsun Z cars (280ZX), Toyota Celica Supra, Chevrolet Camaro, Ford Mustang.
Unique Selling Proposition:
Lightweight chassis, rear-wheel drive, innovative Wankel rotary engine, distinctive styling, and excellent handling.
Manual User:
Mazda RX-7 owners, automotive technicians, classic car restorers.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul procedures for the Wankel rotary engine, including apex seals, rotor housing inspection, oil metering pump, and lubrication systems.
Fuel System:
Carburetor (likely Hitachi/Mikuni) adjustment, overhaul, fuel pump, fuel lines, and emissions control systems specific to the rotary engine.
Ignition System:
Ignition timing adjustment, distributor, spark plugs (dual plugs per rotor), ignition coils, and electronic control units (if applicable).
Transmission Manual:
Overhaul and repair of the 4-speed or 5-speed manual transmission, clutch service, and drive axle assembly.
Transmission Automatic:
Service and repair of the optional automatic transmission (if equipped).
Braking System:
Front disc brake overhaul, rear drum brake service, master cylinder, brake lines, parking brake adjustment, and hydraulic system bleeding.
Suspension System:
Front strut and coil spring assembly, rear leaf spring suspension, bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, and wheel alignment specifications.
Steering System:
Rack and pinion steering gear, tie rods, steering column, and power steering system (if equipped).
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, starter motor, alternator, battery service, lighting system, fuses, relays, and instrument panel functions.
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan operation, water pump, thermostat, coolant specifications, and heater core service.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel alignment, door and window mechanisms, interior trim removal, bumper service, and frame inspection.
Emissions Control:
Detailed information on the Rotary's unique emissions systems, including air injection, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), and catalytic converter operation.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, belt adjustments, and fluid level checks.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting guides for common issues, particularly related to the rotary engine's operation.
Repair Overhaul:
Step-by-step instructions for complete disassembly, repair, and reassembly of all major vehicle components and systems.
Diagnostics:
Specific diagnostic procedures for engine performance, electrical faults, and mechanical issues, utilizing factory specifications.
Adjustments:
Detailed procedures for adjusting engine idle speed, carburetor settings, clutch pedal free play, parking brake, and headlamp aim.
Wheel Alignment:
Specific alignment angles (camber, caster, toe) and adjustment procedures for the front and rear suspension.
Depth:
Full dealership-level repair and maintenance procedures, suitable for both professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months (refer to manual for specific recommendation).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Recommended at specific mileage intervals, often tied to tune-ups. The dual-plug design requires careful attention.
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (Rotary engines do not have timing belts; they utilize a timing chain or gears.
Engine Oil Type:
API SF or SG classification, viscosity grade typically 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for precise specification and oil metering injector).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity grade 75W-90 or 80W-90 (verify with manual).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Apex Seal Wear:
Premature wear of apex seals if engine is not properly maintained, overheated, or if lubrication system fails. Critical diagnostic point in the manual.
Carbon Buildup:
Carbon deposits can form in the combustion chambers and exhaust ports, affecting performance and requiring specific cleaning procedures detailed in the manual.
Oil Seals:
Potential for oil seal leaks over time, particularly around the front and rear main seals.
Carburetor Tuning:
Carburetors can be sensitive to altitude and require periodic adjustments for optimal performance and emissions.
Mazda Rotary Introduction:
Mazda's pioneering commitment to the Wankel rotary engine, beginning with the Mazda Cosmo.
First Generation Debut:
The RX-7 (SA22C) debuted in 1978 in Japan and 1979 in North America, establishing itself as a purist's sports car.
1980 Model Year Changes:
Minor updates likely included trim refinements, and potentially minor mechanical adjustments for emissions or drivability. Specifics would be detailed in the manual.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Production Period:
1978-1985 (First Generation)