🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Year:

1980

Generation:

1st Generation (SA/FB)

Chassis Code:

SA22C

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Mazda RX-7 was a groundbreaking sports car that established Mazda's reputation for innovative engineering, particularly with its rotary engine. It competed against established European sports cars and offered a unique driving experience.

Competitors:

Datsun Z-cars (280Z), Toyota Celica Supra, Porsche 924, Chevrolet Camaro.

Rotary Engine:

The Wankel rotary engine provided a compact, smooth, and high-revving power unit, distinguishing the RX-7 from its piston-engine rivals.

Styling:

Sleek, aerodynamic, and distinctive styling with pop-up headlights, a hallmark of 1970s and 1980s sports car design.

Handling:

Lightweight construction and a balanced chassis contributed to excellent handling characteristics.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Complete Workshop Service and Repair

Secondary Coverage:

Parts and Maintenance

Estimated Page Count:

Approximately 1000+ pages (based on typical factory workshop manuals of this era and scope)

Type:

Factory Service Manual (Digital)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Software (Interactive CD Platform)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Rotary engine internal components, lubrication, cooling, timing, sealing systems.

Fuel System:

Carburetor (likely Hitachi or Nikki twin-choke), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel tank, evaporative emission control.

Ignition System:

Distributor, ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition timing, electronic control unit (if applicable for the year).

Electrical System:

Charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), battery, wiring diagrams, lighting, instrumentation, accessories.

Transmission:

Manual transmission (likely 4 or 5-speed), clutch system, automatic transmission (optional).

Drivetrain:

Propeller shaft, universal joints, differential, rear axle, wheel bearings.

Suspension:

Front suspension (struts, control arms, anti-roll bar), rear suspension (live axle, trailing arms, Panhard rod, shocks), alignment specifications.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (typically), brake fluid, master cylinder, power booster, parking brake system.

Steering:

Steering gear, steering column, tie rods, steering linkage, power steering system (if equipped).

HVAC:

Air conditioning system (compressor, condenser, evaporator, refrigerant), heating system, ventilation.

Body And Interior:

Body panel removal/installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seats, glass, mirrors, weatherstripping.

Emission Control:

Air injection system, PCV system, exhaust system, catalytic converter (if applicable).

Maintenance Procedures:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, coolant checks, belt adjustments, lubrication points.

Repair Procedures:

Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, brake caliper service, suspension component replacement, electrical system diagnostics.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting common issues, symptom-based diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) with specific procedures.

Depth:

Comprehensive factory-level detail, covering everything from basic fluid checks to full engine disassembly and reassembly.

Diagnostics Level:

Advanced diagnostics, including specific fault isolation steps and troubleshooting trees.

Diagrams Illustrations:

High-definition diagrams and photographs supporting step-by-step instructions.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format:

Software platform (interactive CD)

Print Capability:

Printable instructions and illustrations (entire manual or specific sections).

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

Indexing:

Fully indexed by bookmarks and keywords.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Naturally Aspirated Wankel Rotary

Engine Code:

12A

Displacement:

1146 cc (equivalent to approx. 2.3L piston displacement for tax purposes)

Horsepower:

100-105 hp @ 6000 rpm (SAE Gross)

Torque:

117 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm (SAE Gross)

Carburetion:

Hitachi 40mm twin-choke downdraft carburetor (common for US models)

Ignition Control:

Electronic ignition system (for this year).

Cooling Type:

Water-cooled rotary engine with large radiator and fan.

Oil System:

Pressurized oil system with a dedicated oil cooler. Crucial: separate oil injection system for apex seals.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed manual

Transmission Type:

3-speed automatic

Clutch Type:

Single dry plate, hydraulically operated

Gear Ratios:

Specific gear ratios for manual and automatic transmissions are detailed within the manual.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

95.0 inches (2413 mm)

Length:

167.7 inches (4260 mm)

Width:

65.4 inches (1661 mm)

Height:

49.2 inches (1250 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2300-2450 lbs (1043-1111 kg)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

GVWR data available in manual.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Results:

No standardized crash test ratings were widely available for vehicles of this era as they are today. The manual will provide structural repair information.

Braking System:

Front vented disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Power assisted with dual hydraulic circuits.

Steering System:

Recirculating ball steering, with optional power steering.

Seat Belts:

Three-point inertia-reel seat belts

Body Structure:

Integrated safety cage and crumple zones, as per design of the era.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio, often with an 8-track or cassette player. The manual covers radio removal and installation.

Cruise Control:

Cruise control was an optional feature on some models, and its operation and repair are covered.

Vehicle Communication:

No modern digital communication systems (e.g., CAN bus) present; systems are purely electromechanical and analog.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (typically recommended, check manual for specifics).

Oil Filter Change:

With every oil change.

Spark Plug Service:

Refer to manual; typically around 20,000-30,000 miles for platinum tip plugs.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 30,000 miles.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (verify with manual; high-zinc content oils often recommended for rotaries).

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron III or equivalent ATF.

Differential Fluid:

GL-5 gear oil, SAE 80W-90 or 85W-140.

Rotary Oil Injection:

Specific 2-stroke or rotary engine oil blend for the injection system (refer to manual for exact specification).

Apex Seal Wear:

Premature apex seal wear can occur if the engine is not properly maintained or if oil injection fails. Critical to follow lubrication procedures.

Carburetor Tuning:

Carburetors can require regular tuning and cleaning to maintain optimal performance and fuel economy.

Cooling System Maintenance:

Rotary engines generate significant heat; a well-maintained cooling system is essential to prevent overheating.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Rotary Pioneering:

Mazda's commitment to the rotary engine began with the Cosmo in the late 1960s, and the RX-7 cemented its place as the leading exponent of this technology.

1St Gen Introduction:

The first generation RX-7 (SA22C) was introduced in 1978 as a 1979 model year vehicle, succeeding the RX-3 and showcasing a more modern, sporty design.

Production Years:

1978-1985 (1st Generation)

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Accolades:

The RX-7 was praised for its handling and unique rotary powerplant, often appearing on 'best sports car' lists of its era.