🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Year:

1980

Chassis Code:

SA22C

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Compact Sports Car

Key Selling Points:

Rotary engine performance, lightweight design, distinctive styling, affordable sports car.

Competitors 1980:

Datsun 240Z/260Z/280Z, Toyota Celica GT, Porsche 924, Triumph TR7.

Unique Selling Proposition:

The pioneering rotary engine (Wankel) offering a smooth, high-revving power delivery and compact size.

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers DIY enthusiasts and mechanics to perform comprehensive maintenance and repairs on the first-generation RX-7.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Systems:

Engine, Emission Control, Lubrication, Cooling, Fuel/Inlet/Exhaust, Electrical, Clutch/Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Propeller Shaft, Rear Axle, Steering, Brakes, Wheels, Tires, Suspension, Body

Estimated Page Count:

Refer to actual manual for precise count (typically 500+ pages for a full workshop manual)

Manual Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Rotary engine (12A) teardown, assembly, component specifications, timing, rotor housing, apex seals, side seals.

Fuel System:

Carburetor (likely Hitachi or similar), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filter replacement, adjustments, troubleshooting.

Ignition System:

Distributor, ignition coils, spark plugs, timing adjustments, troubleshooting.

Lubrication System:

Oil pump, oil pan, oil filter, oil cooler (if applicable), lubrication specifications, oil change procedures.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, hoses, coolant specifications, bleeding procedures, troubleshooting.

Emission Control:

Air injection system, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), catalytic converter (if applicable), emission related component diagnosis.

Clutch Manual Transmission:

Clutch inspection, adjustment, replacement, manual transmission removal, disassembly, reassembly, gear ratios, fluid specifications.

Automatic Transmission:

Automatic transmission removal, disassembly, reassembly, hydraulic circuits, fluid specifications, troubleshooting (if equipped).

Drivetrain:

Propeller shaft (driveshaft) inspection, U-joints, rear axle assembly, differential, axle bearings, fluid specifications.

Steering System:

Steering rack, tie rods, steering column, power steering pump (if equipped), fluid specifications, alignment procedures.

Brake System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul, master cylinder, parking brake.

Suspension System:

Front independent suspension (struts, control arms), rear live axle with links/watts linkage, shock absorbers, springs, bushings, wheel alignment.

Wheels Tires:

Wheel specifications, tire pressure recommendations, lug nut torque specifications.

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, glass, interior trim, structural components, rust repair considerations.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system (starter), fuses, relays, diagnostic procedures.

Preventive Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections, lubrication points.

Diagnostic Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step guides for identifying and resolving common and uncommon issues across all systems.

Repair Overhaul:

Detailed instructions for component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, and reassembly.

Adjustment Calibration:

Procedures for adjusting carburetor, ignition timing, clutch, brakes, headlights, etc.

Component Replacement:

Guidance on replacing parts such as spark plugs, belts, hoses, brake pads, bearings, etc.

Depth Level:

Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to full engine rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics.

Diagnostic Tools:

Mentions of necessary special tools and basic diagnostic equipment (multimeter, timing light).

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text within the PDF document.

Print Recommendation:

High-resolution for clear diagrams and text when printed.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Operating Systems:

Windows (Win) and Mac OS (Max)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel)

Engine Code:

12A

Displacement:

1146 cc (equivalent to ~2.3L piston engine for tax purposes)

Horsepower Gross:

100-105 hp (depending on market and specific emissions equipment)

Torque Gross:

110-115 lb-ft (depending on market and specific emissions equipment)

Carburetor:

Hitachi DCAS 32 (twin downdraft carburetors, often with thermal reactor or air injection for emissions).

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (Regular Octane)

Oil Capacity With Filter:

Approx. 4.5 - 5.0 quarts (4.3 - 4.7 liters)

Oil Type Recommendation:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (check manual for precise specification)

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 - 7.0 quarts (6.2 - 6.6 liters) of a 50/50 coolant/water mix.

Apex Seal Life:

Variable, often requiring rebuild between 80,000-150,000 miles depending on maintenance and driving style.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type:

3-speed Automatic Transmission

Clutch Type:

Dry single plate

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (check manual for exact specification)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron II or equivalent (check manual for exact specification)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

95.7 inches (2430 mm)

Length:

162.0 inches (4115 mm)

Width:

65.6 inches (1665 mm)

Height:

50.4 inches (1280 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2300-2450 lbs (1043-1111 kg) depending on transmission and options.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Refer to vehicle VIN plate for specific GVWR.

Standard Wheel Size:

13x5.5 inch or 14x5.5 inch (steel or alloy options)

Standard Tire Size:

185/70R13 or 185/70R14 (depending on wheel size)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4x110mm

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Crash Test Results:

Not readily available for this era and specific model. Focus on structural integrity and passive safety features of the time.

Brakes:

Front discs, Rear drums. Power assisted.

Seatbelts:

Three-point front seatbelts.

Body Structure:

Reinforced body structure for its time, designed as a sporty coupe.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio with cassette player, optional power antenna.

ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not a standard feature on the 1980 RX-7.

Cruise Control:

Optional on higher trim levels.

Connectivity Features:

None (This era predates modern connectivity features).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, whichever comes first (highly recommended for rotary engines).

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 15,000-20,000 miles (specific platinum or resistor plugs recommended).

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.

Belt Replacement:

Serpentine/V-belts inspected at 15,000 miles, replaced as needed or typically between 40,000-60,000 miles.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check manual for precise specification)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Apex Seal Wear:

Premature wear can occur due to poor lubrication, incorrect oil, detonation, or overheating. Manual provides rebuild procedures.

Carburetor Issues:

Clogging, diaphragm failure, and vacuum leaks can lead to poor running. Manual details adjustment and rebuild.

Cooling System Reliability:

Older hoses can degrade, leading to leaks. Radiator efficiency can decrease over time. Proper maintenance is crucial.

Rotary Oil Injection:

System requires specific 2-stroke oil to be mixed with fuel or injected; failure leads to accelerated apex seal wear. Manual covers system checks.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Rotary Development:

Mazda's commitment to the Wankel rotary engine, starting with the Cosmo Sport, culminating in the RX series.

First Generation Rx7 Launch:

Introduced in 1978 as a 1979 model year vehicle, intended as a successor to the Mazda Luce/R130.

1980 Model Year Changes:

Typically minor updates in styling, features, or emissions equipment compared to the initial launch model.

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

Production Run First Gen:

1978-1985

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver 10Best:

Mazda RX-7 named to Car and Driver's 10Best list for 1979.

Motor Trend Import Car Of The Year:

Runner-up for Motor Trend's Import Car of the Year in 1979.

Performance Handling Reputation:

Widely praised for its sporty handling, balanced chassis, and unique performance characteristics.