Vehicle Segment:
Subcompact / City Car
Target Audience:
Budget-conscious consumers, first-time car buyers, those seeking economical and reliable transportation.
Key Competitors:
Ford Fiesta, Volkswagen Polo, Fiat Uno, Honda City (first generation), Toyota Starlet.
Vehicle Strengths:
Compact size, maneuverability, fuel efficiency, affordability, reliability (typical Mazda trait).
User Level:
Professional technicians and DIY mechanics with basic to intermediate mechanical knowledge.
Benefits:
Provides factory-level repair and maintenance information, empowering owners to perform tasks typically done by dealerships, saving time and money.
Engine:
Detailed coverage including engine identification, disassembly, assembly, internal components, cooling system, lubrication system, ignition system, fuel system, emission control systems.
Transmission:
Coverage for manual and automatic transmissions, including inspection, repair, disassembly, assembly, and fluid specifications.
Brakes:
Comprehensive details on brake system components (discs, drums, calipers, master cylinder, lines), hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (if equipped).
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension systems, steering gear, power steering (if applicable), wheel alignment specifications.
Electrical:
Extensive coverage of the electrical system, including wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter, lighting, ignition, instruments, power windows, central locking, and diagnostic procedures.
Body Chassis:
Body construction, doors, windows, interior trim, exterior trim, bumpers, chassis components, rust prevention, repair procedures.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system operation, maintenance, and repair.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication points, inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair procedures for all major mechanical and electrical components, including detailed disassembly and reassembly instructions.
Diagnostics:
Engine diagnostics, electrical system diagnostics, using diagnostic tools.
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical values, diagnostic parameters.
Illustrations:
Includes diagrams, schematics, and photographs to illustrate repair procedures and component identification.
Depth:
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Covers detailed component overhaul and advanced diagnostics.
Engine Code:
B-series (e.g., B3, B5, B6)
Engine Displacement Liters:
Typically 1.1L (B11), 1.3L (B3), 1.5L (B5), 1.6L (B6) depending on market and trim.
Engine Type:
Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC or DOHC (depending on engine code)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 55 - 100 PS (40 - 74 kW), depending on engine and tuning.
Torque Range:
Approximately 85 - 130 Nm (63 - 96 lb-ft), depending on engine.
Fuel Delivery:
Carbureted or Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI), depending on engine and market.
Cooling Type:
Water-cooled
Oil Capacity Liters:
Typically around 3.0 - 3.5 liters (check manual for specific engine).
Ignition Type:
Distributor-based or Distributorless Ignition System (DIS), depending on engine variant.
Transmission Type Standard:
5-speed Manual Transmission
Transmission Type Optional:
3-speed or 4-speed Automatic Transmission
Clutch Type:
Dry single-plate (for manual transmission)
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil (check manual for exact specification).
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron II or equivalent (check manual for exact specification).
Length Mm:
Approximately 3,730 - 3,800 mm (varies by body style).
Width Mm:
Approximately 1,600 - 1,650 mm.
Height Mm:
Approximately 1,370 - 1,430 mm.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2,300 - 2,350 mm.
Curb Weight Kg:
Approximately 850 - 950 kg, depending on equipment and engine.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg:
Typically around 1300-1400 kg.
Crash Test Results:
Limited independent crash test data available for this model from the early 1990s. Generally considered basic for its era.
ABS:
Optional on some higher trims, not standard.
Airbags:
Driver's airbag was an optional feature and not universally equipped.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seatbelts. Driver and front passenger often featured pretensioners.
Body Structure:
Unibody construction with crumple zones.
Oil Change Interval Km:
Typically 5,000 - 10,000 km or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil used (refer to manual for precise interval).
Spark Plug Replacement Interval Km:
Varies by plug type (copper, platinum, iridium); typically 20,000 - 60,000 km.
Timing Belt Replacement Interval Km:
Crucial for non-interference engines; typically 80,000 - 100,000 km or 5-7 years. Check manual for interference status and recommended interval.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 is common. Check manual for specific viscosity and API rating.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Consult manual for specific type and color (e.g., Mazda's specific coolant).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Common Wear Items:
Suspension bushings, exhaust system components, clutch wear (especially in manual transmissions), minor electrical gremlins (door locks, window regulators), radiator hoses.
Engine Specific Issues:
Carburetor issues (if applicable) requiring cleaning and adjustment, potential for oil leaks from seals and gaskets over time.
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel arches, sills, and lower body panels can be susceptible to rust, particularly in regions with harsh winters or high humidity.
Mazda Philosophy:
Mazda has a long history of producing reliable, driver-focused, and often innovative vehicles, even in the economy segment.
Generation Codes:
The 1992 model typically falls within the DB generation, following the DA. Later models evolved into the DW and later versions were rebadged Ford Fiestas in some markets.
Design Origin:
The Mazda 121 (DB generation) was a collaboration with Ford, sharing platforms with the Ford Fiesta Mk3.
Production Years:
The DB generation was produced from approximately 1990 to 1995.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Spain (for European markets) and Japan.
