🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Year:

1980

Chassis Code:

SA22C

Generation:

First Generation (SA/FB)

Engine Code Primary:

12A (RESA)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The 1980 Mazda RX-7 (SA22C) was a groundbreaking sports car that redefined accessible performance with its unique rotary engine. It competed against established models like the Datsun Z-car and Toyota Celica Supra, carving out a niche for its distinctive driving dynamics and economical yet potent powerplant.

Competitors:

Datsun 280Z, Toyota Celica Supra, Porsche 924, Alfa Romeo Alfetta GT.

Distinguishing Features:

Rotary engine, lightweight chassis, balanced handling, distinctive styling, affordable sports car segment.

Value:

This factory service manual provides the essential, authoritative technical information required to maintain, diagnose, and repair the 1980 Mazda RX-7. Its comprehensive nature and detailed procedures make it an indispensable tool for owners and mechanics preserving this iconic vehicle.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Factory Service Manual

Pages:

280

Type:

Workshop Manual / Service Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Bookmarked, Indexed PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine And Drivetrain:

Detailed diagrams, specifications, and repair procedures for the 12A rotary engine, including apex seals, rotor housing, oil metering, cooling system, and exhaust system.

Fuel System:

Carburetor (likely Hitachi or Solex) tuning, disassembly, reassembly, and troubleshooting; fuel pump and lines.

Ignition System:

Distributor, ignition coils, spark plugs, timing adjustments, and electronic ignition components (if applicable).

Transmission:

Manual transmission (likely 4 or 5-speed) overhaul, clutch system repair, and driveshaft/differential service.

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, springs, shock absorbers), steering rack, power steering system (if equipped), and wheel alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (typical for this era), hydraulic system, brake fluid specifications, and service procedures.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, fuse box layout, lighting system, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system (starter motor), instrument cluster, and accessory circuits.

Body And Chassis:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, glass replacement, and chassis component service.

Cooling System:

Radiator, cooling fan, thermostat, coolant types, and flushing procedures.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter (early emissions control), muffler, and pipe replacement.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks, fluid level checks and top-offs, belt inspections.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic charts and procedures for common engine, electrical, and mechanical issues.

Repair And Rebuild:

Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, and reassembly.

Diagnostics:

Specific diagnostic steps for identifying faults within various vehicle systems.

Specifications And Tolerances:

Detailed torque values, clearances, and critical measurement specifications for engine and chassis components.

Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level detail, suitable for professional mechanics and serious DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic fluid changes to full engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

Digital (PDF)

Quality:

High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.

Binding:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Search Functionality:

Fully searchable PDF text for quick information retrieval.

Bookmarks:

Extensive bookmarking and indexing for easy navigation.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Rotary (Wankel)

Engine Code:

12A (RESA - Rotary Engine Super Auto)

Rotor Displacement:

573cc per rotor (1146cc total equivalent piston displacement)

Horsepower:

100-110 hp @ 6500 rpm (varies slightly by market/emissions)

Torque:

105-110 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (varies slightly by market/emissions)

Carburetion:

Single Hitachi downdraft carburetor (e.g., HMA 40-18) or twin Solex carburetors on some export models.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)

Cooling Type:

Liquid-cooled

Oil Metering:

Oil injection system for apex seal lubrication (automatic via oil pump).

Mount Type:

Rubber isolation mounts, specific torque specifications for mounting bolts.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed manual transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

3-speed automatic transmission (less common)

Gear Ratios Manual 4Sp:

1st: 3.47, 2nd: 2.13, 3rd: 1.33, 4th: 0.97, Reverse: 3.52 (typical, refer to manual for exact ratios)

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulic actuation

Transmission Fluid Type:

GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 2.0-2.3 Liters (consult manual for exact capacity)

Driveshaft Type:

Two-piece driveshaft with center support bearing.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

4200 mm (165.4 in)

Width:

1650 mm (65.0 in)

Height:

1275 mm (50.2 in)

Wheelbase:

2400 mm (94.5 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 970-1050 kg (2138-2315 lbs) depending on equipment.

Wheel Size Standard:

14x5.5 inch or 14x6 inch steel wheels with hubcaps.

Tire Size Standard:

185/70R14 or 195/70R14 (check manual for specific fitments).

Bolt Pattern:

4x114.3 mm (4x4.5 inch)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

No comprehensive NHTSA or IIHS crash test data available for this specific model year and era; safety features were more basic compared to modern standards.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes.

Parking Brake:

Mechanical parking brake, typically acting on rear wheels.

Seatbelts:

Standard lap and shoulder belts.

Steering Column:

Collapsible steering column for improved impact protection.

Body Structure:

Reinforced door beams, body-on-frame construction (though unibody is more accurate for the SA22C, it has substantial structural bracing).

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM radio with optional cassette player. Speakers typically located in doors and rear deck.

Cruise Control:

Optional cruise control system available on some models.

Original Connectivity:

None in the modern sense; mechanical and basic electrical systems.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (recommended).

Oil Filter Replacement:

With every oil change.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 12,000 miles or 12 months.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 15,000-20,000 miles (specific plug type and gap are crucial).

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 24,000 miles.

Transmission Fluid Change:

Every 24,000 miles or 24 months.

Engine Oil Type:

API SF or SG, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on climate).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.5-5.0 Liters (including filter). Consult manual for exact capacity.

Rotary Engine Apex Seals:

Wear on apex seals is a common concern, leading to loss of compression. Proper maintenance, including correct oil levels and avoiding excessive revving from cold, is critical. This manual details seal replacement procedures.

Carburetor Tuning:

Carburetors can require periodic adjustment due to age and wear. This manual provides detailed tuning procedures.

Rust And Corrosion:

Like many cars of this era, rust in common areas like wheel wells, rocker panels, and chassis components can be an issue, especially in humid or road-salt-prone climates.

Electrical Gremlins:

Aging wiring harnesses and connections can lead to intermittent electrical faults. The detailed wiring diagrams in this manual are essential for diagnosis.

Oil Filter Example:

Mazda Part Number: B61P-14-302 (Note: Specific P/N may vary, cross-reference recommended. Aftermarket equivalent examples include Fram PH3506, Wix 51515).

Spark Plug Example:

NGK Special Rotary Plug (e.g., BUR7EQ, specific part numbers are critical and listed in manual).

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Rotary Development:

Mazda's long-standing commitment to rotary engine technology, pioneered by Felix Wankel and licensed by Mazda in the early 1960s. The RX-7 was a flagship model showcasing this unique engine.

First Generation Launch:

Introduced in 1978 as the RX-7 (SA22C) in Japan, replacing the RX-3. It was designed as a lightweight, affordable sports car with a focus on handling and distinctive styling. The 1980 model represents the early iteration of this successful platform.

Production Years:

1978-1985 (First Generation)

Manufacturing Locations:

Japan

Global Sales Impact:

The RX-7 achieved significant global sales success, establishing Mazda as a credible sports car manufacturer and popularizing the rotary engine in mass production.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Import Car Of The Year:

The RX-7 was widely praised by automotive journalists upon its release and is often cited as one of the best sports cars of its era, contributing to Mazda's reputation for engineering innovation.