Market Niche:
Iconic Japanese sports car, highly sought after by enthusiasts for its rotary engine and performance capabilities.
Key Competitors:
Toyota Supra (Mk4), Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4, Porsche 968
Engine Type:
Twin-Rotary, Twin-Turbocharged
Handling:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, lightweight construction, and exceptional handling characteristics.
Design:
Sleek, aerodynamic, and timeless design penned by Yojiro Ueno.
Coverage Scope:
All Models & All Repairs A-Z
Specificity:
Vehicle/Model Specific (Not Generic)
Target Audience:
Dealership Technicians, Professional Mechanics, Enthusiast Owners
Page Count Estimated:
Varies by specific publication, typically over 1000 pages for comprehensive coverage.
Manual Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Format:
Print (Typically Spiral-bound or Perfect-bound)
Engine:
Rotary Engine (13B-REW), Turbocharging System, Fuel Injection, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System
Transmission:
Manual Transmission (Type R154 or equivalent Mazda transmission), Drivetrain, Differentials, Axles
Brakes:
Front and Rear Disc Brakes, ABS System, Hydraulic System
Suspension:
Front and Rear Independent Suspension (Double Wishbone), Shocks, Springs, Bushings
Steering:
Power Steering System, Steering Column, Tie Rods
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Battery, Alternator, Starter, Lighting System, Fuses, Relays, ECUs, Sensor Systems
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Glass, Interior Trim, HVAC System
Maintenance:
Routine Inspections, Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Replacement, Belt Inspection/Replacement, Fluid Level Checks and Top-offs
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnostics, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Sensor Testing Procedures
Repair:
Component Removal and Installation, Component Overhaul and Reassembly, Major Component Repairs (Engine, Transmission, etc.)
Special Procedures:
Rotary Engine Apex Seal Inspection/Replacement, Turbocharger Rebuild, Fuel System Cleaning and Testing, ABS Bleeding Procedures
Depth Level:
Comprehensive; Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and drivetrain rebuilds, detailed electrical troubleshooting, and body repair.
Diagrams Illustrations:
Detailed diagrams, exploded views, wiring schematics, and step-by-step illustrations for procedures.
Digital Format:
N/A (This product is a printed manual)
Print Quality:
Professional quality, designed for durability in a workshop environment.
Binding Type:
Spiral-bound or perfect-bound for ease of use and lay-flat capability.
Paper Type:
Durable, high-quality paper stock resistant to shop fluids and wear.
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel), Twin-Rotor
Induction:
Sequential Twin-Turbocharged
Displacement:
1.3L (654cc x 2)
Horsepower Early:
255 hp @ 6500 rpm (1992-1993)
Horsepower Late:
265 hp @ 6500 rpm (1994-1995)
Torque:
217 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (1992-1993) / 231 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (1994-1995)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Crash Test Ratings:
NHTSA and IIHS data for this era may be limited; emphasis on active safety features.
Braking:
Four-wheel disc brakes, optional ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
Stability Control:
Not available on these models.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger airbags standard.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cell and crumple zones.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM/Cassette or CD player, often with premium speaker options.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems.
Cruise Control:
Standard feature on most models.
Bluetooth:
Not factory standard for this model year.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first (synthetic oil recommended).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Refer to manual for specific intervals (typically based on mileage and type of plug).
Timing Belt Alternatives:
No timing belt; utilizes a chain and sprockets for camshaft drive.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, viscosity typically 10W-30 or 5W-30 depending on climate. Rotary-specific oil additive may be recommended.
Coolant Type:
Mazda FL22 Long Life Coolant or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Manual: API GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (e.g., Castrol Syntrans or equivalent), 75W-90 or 80W-90 viscosity.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Apex Seals:
Wear or failure of apex seals, leading to compression loss and engine performance degradation.
Sequential Turbo System:
Failure of the sequential turbo system's solenoids or actuators, affecting boost control.
Premixed Oil Injection:
Premixing oil in fuel tank is often recommended for longevity of apex seals, though factory oil injection system exists.
Catalytic Converter:
Clogging or failure due to carbon buildup or engine issues.
Oil Cooler:
Potential for leaks or inefficient cooling, especially under hard driving.
Mazda Rotary:
Mazda's long and distinguished history with the rotary engine, dating back to the Cosmo Sport.
Previous Generations:
SA22C (1978–1985), FC3S (1985–1991)
Production Period:
1992-2002 (Global for FD generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Hofu, Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan
Notable Trims:
Base, Type R, Type R-S, Type RB, Touring X, Spirit R (later models)