Vehicle Segment:
Sports Car / Grand Tourer
Reputation:
Iconic rotary-powered sports car renowned for its performance, handling, and distinctive design
Key Competitors:
Toyota Supra (Mk4), Nissan 300ZX (Z32), Mitsubishi 3000GT VR-4, Porsche 968
Rotary Engine:
Unique sequential twin-turbocharged 13B-REW rotary engine delivering high power and revs
Handling Dynamics:
Sophisticated suspension system, balanced chassis, and lightweight construction contributing to exceptional handling
Design:
Aerodynamic, flowing body lines, distinctive twin-tailpipe exhaust, and aggressive stance
Interior:
Driver-focused cockpit with ergonomic controls and premium materials for its era
Engine Systems:
Rotary Engine (13B-REW) disassembly, assembly, troubleshooting, diagnostics, lubrication, cooling, fuel injection, ignition, emission control
Transmission Systems:
Manual Transmission (R154, M015) overhaul, clutch system, driveline, driveshafts, differentials
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, springs, bushings, steering rack, power steering system, wheel alignment specifications
Brake Systems:
Front and rear brake calipers, rotors, master cylinder, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), brake bleeding procedures
Electrical Systems:
Wiring diagrams, ECU (Engine Control Unit) troubleshooting, lighting, audio system, power windows, central locking, starter, alternator, battery
Body Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, chassis lubrication, frame straightening, interior trim, doors, glass, bumpers
General Repairs:
Comprehensive step-by-step repair procedures for all major vehicle systems
Diagnostics:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, troubleshooting flowcharts, fault code identification and interpretation
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance items, fluid changes, filter replacements, component inspections
Rebuilds:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul instructions, differential rebuilds
Depth Of Information:
Factory level detail, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics
Diagnostic Tools:
References to specialized tools and diagnostic equipment used by Mazda technicians
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel)
Aspiration:
Sequential Twin-Turbocharged
Displacement:
1308 cc (1.3 L)
Horsepower Est:
255 hp @ 6500 rpm (JDM/European), 255 hp @ 6500 rpm (USDM)
Torque Est:
217 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (JDM/European), 217 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (USDM)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Sequential Turbo Control
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91+ Octane)
Transmission Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission (Mazda R154 or M015)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic Transmission (Optional on some models)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated, single-plate dry clutch
Final Drive Ratio:
3.909 (Manual), 4.100 (Automatic)
NHTSA Crash Test Ratings:
Not extensively rated by NHTSA for this specific year/generation in contemporary standards. Historically considered a safe sports car for its era.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Available Traction Control System (TCS) on some models
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point inertia-reel seatbelts with pre-tensioners
Rollover Protection:
Reinforced A-pillars and a robust chassis structure for a coupe
Audio System:
Mazda ETR AM/FM stereo with cassette player and optional CD player, premium speaker system
Climate Control:
Automatic climate control with digital display on higher trims
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era, primarily focused on basic automotive functions; no modern connectivity features like Bluetooth or USB
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, using high-quality synthetic oil suitable for rotary engines
Spark Plug Replacement:
Consult manual for specific interval, typically around 30,000 miles, using specific rotary spark plugs
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A (Rotary engines do not have timing belts; they use oil seals and apex seals)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on driving conditions
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 Synthetic (refer to manual for precise specifications)
Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-4 Gear Oil (e.g., 75W-90)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Rotary Apex Seals:
Potential wear of apex seals over time, leading to compression loss and engine issues. Regular maintenance and proper engine operation are crucial.
Sequential Turbo System:
Complexity of the sequential turbo system can lead to vacuum leaks or actuator issues if not maintained.
Fuel System Maintenance:
Importance of using high-quality fuel and regular injector cleaning due to rotary engine's specific fuel requirements.
Mazda Rotary History:
Mazda's long and pioneering history with the rotary engine, beginning with the Cosmo Sport.
Rx7 Generations:
This manual covers the highly acclaimed third generation (FD), succeeding the SA22C (FB) and FC3S generations.
Fd3S Development:
Developed under the 'FD-3S' project name, emphasizing lightweight, agile handling, and advanced rotary technology.
Production Years:
1992-2002
Production Locations:
Mazda's Fuchu Plant, Hiroshima, Japan
Car And Driver Ten Best:
Car and Driver recognized the RX-7 FD3S as one of its 'Ten Best' cars multiple times.
Automotive Journalism Acclaim:
Widely praised by automotive journalists worldwide for its performance, engineering, and driving experience.
