Segment:
Subcompact hatchback/sedan
Target Audience:
Economical urban transportation
Key Competitors:
Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, Fiat Uno, Toyota Starlet, Opel Corsa
Design Philosophy:
Compact, fuel-efficient, practical, affordable
Powertrain Availability:
Known for reliable, smaller displacement engines
Utility:
Essential for maintaining the longevity and performance of the 1990 Mazda 121
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system
Drivetrain:
Transmission (manual & automatic), clutch, drive axles, differentials
Chassis:
Suspension (front & rear), steering system, braking system
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instruments, power distribution, starter, alternator, battery, infotainment system basics
Body And Interior:
Body construction, doors, windows, seats, trim, HVAC system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting charts, symptom-based diagnostics, fault code interpretation (if applicable)
Repair:
Component removal, installation, disassembly, reassembly, adjustments
Overhaul:
Engine rebuild, transmission overhaul, suspension component rebuilding
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, diagnostic values
Depth:
In-depth, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts
Engine Code:
B3 (commonly found in this model/year)
Configuration:
Inline-4 cylinder
Displacement Liters:
1.3 L
Bore X Stroke:
71.0 mm x 83.6 mm
Compression Ratio:
9.5:1 (typical)
Valve Train:
SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft), 16 valves (4 valves per cylinder)
Horsepower Ps:
Approx. 73 PS (at 5500 rpm, typical for B3 engine)
Horsepower Hp:
Approx. 72 hp (at 5500 rpm, typical for B3 engine)
Torque Nm:
Approx. 103 Nm (at 3500 rpm, typical for B3 engine)
Torque Lb-Ft:
Approx. 76 lb-ft (at 3500 rpm, typical for B3 engine)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) or Carbureted (depending on market/variant)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Ignition Type:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) or traditional distributor
Cooling Method:
Liquid-cooled
Oil Capacity Liters:
Approx. 3.0 - 3.5 Liters (with filter)
Type:
Hydraulic or rubber engine mounts for vibration isolation
Type:
5-speed Manual Transaxle
Type:
3-speed Automatic Transaxle (often with lock-up converter)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated diaphragm spring clutch
Manual Gearbox Oil:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mazda ATF D-III or equivalent Dexron II/III
Body Styles:
3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback, 4-door sedan (depending on market)
Length Mm:
Approx. 3960 mm (hatchback)
Width Mm:
Approx. 1645 mm
Height Mm:
Approx. 1405 mm (hatchback)
Wheelbase Mm:
Approx. 2345 mm
Track Width Front Mm:
Approx. 1420 mm
Track Width Rear Mm:
Approx. 1415 mm
Curb Weight Kg:
Approx. 850-950 kg (depending on body style and equipment)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg:
Approx. 1300-1400 kg
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
4 x 100 mm
Standard Tire Size:
165/70 R13 (typical)
Optional Tire Size:
175/65 R14 (possible on higher trims)
Crash Test Data:
Limited official crash test data readily available for this specific model year and region; rely on structural integrity and passive safety features of the era.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, Rear drum brakes
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on some higher trims or later production models, not standard.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seatbelts
Head Restraints:
Front and rear head restraints (standard)
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage, crumple zones (design of the era)
Oil Change Interval Km:
Every 5,000 - 7,500 km or 6 months
Air Filter Replacement Km:
Every 15,000 - 20,000 km
Spark Plug Replacement Km:
Every 30,000 - 40,000 km (depending on type)
Timing Belt Replacement Km:
Every 80,000 - 100,000 km (critical item)
Engine Oil Grade:
API SG/SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (preferred); SAE 5W-30 in very cold climates.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF (if equipped with power steering)
Engine Minor:
Oil leaks from valve cover gasket or oil pan gasket, potential for timing belt tensioner noise if not replaced.
Transmission Minor:
Clutch wear, occasional synchromesh issues in manual transmissions with high mileage.
Suspension Chassis:
Worn suspension bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends; rust in common areas (wheel arches, sills) can be a concern in certain climates.
Electrical Common:
Corroded electrical connectors, aging starter motors, alternator brushes.
OBD Port:
OBD-I system or no standardized diagnostic port; relies on manufacturer-specific diagnostic procedures and test connectors.
Mazda Philosophy:
Known for 'Zoom-Zoom' driving dynamics, innovation, and quality in a compact package.
Introduction Year:
1989 (for DA Series)
Platform:
Shared platform with Ford Festiva (in many markets)
Design Influence:
Designed with a focus on practicality and fuel economy for urban environments.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan (primarily), also assembled in other Mazda plants globally.
