🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX-7

Model Code:

FC3S / FC3C

Generation:

Second Generation (FC)

Production Years Covered By Manual:

1991-1992

Engine Code Primary:

13B

Chassis Code Coupe:

FC3S

Chassis Code Convertible:

FC3C

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Mazda RX-7 (FC) occupied a niche in the sports car market, known for its rotary engine, balanced handling, and distinctive styling. It competed with cars like the Nissan 300ZX, Toyota Supra, and Porsche 944.

Key Advantages:

Unique rotary engine providing high-revving power and a distinct character. Excellent chassis balance and handling dynamics, particularly the Turbo II models. Stylish design, especially the convertible variant.

Manual Value Proposition:

Essential for owners and enthusiasts undertaking restoration, maintenance, or modification. Provides the definitive resource for identifying and sourcing correct Mazda OEM parts, crucial for preserving originality and ensuring proper fit and function.

Exploded Diagrams Utility:

Exploded diagrams are invaluable for understanding how components assemble and disassemble, aiding in diagnostics, repair planning, and visual identification of parts.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Scope:

Comprehensive parts catalog with exploded diagrams for all components.

Geographic Coverage:

Assumed global market, based on Mazda's export strategy.

Trim Level Coverage:

Likely covers all factory trim levels and options available for the specified years, including Turbo II.

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by edition, but professional quality parts manuals typically exceed 500 pages for a vehicle of this complexity.

Type:

Parts Manual / Parts Catalog

Language:

English

Format:

Likely available in printed book or digital format (PDF). The description implies a digital format for enlarging views.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine And Powertrain:

Rotary engine components (rotor housing, apex seals, eccentric shaft), intake system, exhaust system, fuel injection, ignition, cooling system, lubrication system, clutch, transmission (manual and automatic), differential, driveshafts.

Chassis And Suspension:

Front and rear suspension components (struts, control arms, bushings, springs, anti-roll bars), steering system (rack and pinion, steering column), wheel bearings, hubs.

Braking System:

Front and rear disc brake components (calipers, rotors, pads, lines), master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake system.

Electrical System:

Wiring harnesses, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), battery, alternator, starter motor, fuses, relays, sensors, ECU, instrument cluster, audio system components.

Body And Interior:

Body panels (fenders, hood, doors, trunk lid), bumpers, glass (windshield, side glass, rear glass), seals, interior trim panels, seats, dashboard, steering wheel, pedals, seat belts, convertible top mechanisms (for FC3C).

Assembly And Disassembly:

Detailed exploded diagrams for the identification and ordering of all parts required for assembly and disassembly of any component.

Component Identification:

Accurate Mazda factory part numbers for every individual component, allowing for precise ordering.

Depth:

Highly detailed, providing manufacturer-specific part numbers and visual references for all serviceable components, crucial for restoration, repair, and maintenance.

📊 Manual Specifications

Digital Format Quality:

High-resolution scans or original digital files, ensuring clarity of exploded diagrams and text. Searchable PDF is a common and desirable format for parts manuals.

Print Quality:

Professional quality printing with sharp, clear diagrams and legible text, suitable for workshop use.

Binding Type:

For printed versions: Spiral-bound or durable perfect binding to withstand frequent use in a workshop environment.

Paper Type:

For printed versions: Heavy-duty, glossy or semi-gloss paper to resist grease and wear.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel)

Engine Displacement Rotary:

1.3 Liters (654cc x 2 rotor chambers)

Engine Code:

13B

Aspiration:

Naturally Aspirated (e.g., RX-7 S/FC) and Turbocharged (e.g., RX-7 Turbo II/FC3S)

Horsepower Naturally Aspirated:

Approx. 160 hp @ 6500 rpm (for 1991-1992 models)

Horsepower Turbocharged:

Approx. 200 hp @ 6500 rpm (for 1991-1992 Turbo II models)

Torque Naturally Aspirated:

Approx. 150 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Torque Turbocharged:

Approx. 200 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline, premium octane recommended.

Cooling Medium:

Water/Coolant Mixture

Coolant Capacity:

Approx. 6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts)

Oil Type Recommendation:

Refer to manual for specific viscosity (e.g., 10W-30, 5W-30 depending on climate). Rotary engines require specific oil formulations. API Service SG or higher.

Oil Capacity:

Approx. 4.7 Liters (5.0 US Quarts) with filter change.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Standard:

5-speed Manual Transmission

Transmission Type Optional:

4-speed Automatic Transmission

Differential:

Viscous Coupling Limited Slip Differential (VLSD) was often standard or optional on Turbo models.

Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios vary by transmission and model, detailed in the manual.

Manual Transmission Fluid Type:

GL-4 Gear Oil, typically 75W-90 or 80W-90. Refer to manual for exact specification.

Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:

Mazda M-III Automatic Transmission Fluid or equivalent Dexron III.

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4,315 mm (169.9 in)

Width:

Approx. 1,750 mm (68.9 in)

Height:

Approx. 1,295 mm (51.0 in) for Coupe, slightly different for Convertible.

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,500 mm (98.4 in)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4x114.3 mm (4x4.5 inches)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1,270 - 1,450 kg (2,800 - 3,200 lbs) depending on trim and configuration.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Specific NHTSA or IIHS ratings for these model years may be limited. The design predates more rigorous modern testing standards.

Braking System Type:

Four-wheel disc brakes. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was optional or standard on higher trims, particularly Turbo models.

Traction Control:

TCS (Traction Control System) was available on some Turbo models.

Seat Belts:

Three-point seat belts with pretensioners.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag was optional and became more common in later models of this generation. Passenger airbag was not typically offered.

Chassis Design:

Unibody construction with front and rear crumple zones.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted AM/FM stereo with cassette player. Optional CD player in later models. Speaker configurations varied by trim.

Climate Control:

Manual or optional automatic climate control systems were available.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models, especially Turbo variants.

Lighting Technology:

Halogen headlights. Pop-up headlights were a signature feature.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. Specific recommendations should be followed from the owner's manual or service manual.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Rotary engines have specific spark plug configurations (e.g., two plugs per rotor). Replacement intervals vary, but are crucial for engine health. Expect every 15,000-30,000 miles.

Timing Belt Equivalent:

Rotary engines do not have timing belts; they use an eccentric shaft. However, auxiliary drive belts (alternator, power steering, A/C) require regular inspection and replacement based on wear.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4. Refer to manual for exact specification and interval.

Power Steering Fluid Type:

Mazda Power Steering Fluid or ATF Dexron II/III. Refer to manual.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Mazda FL22 is a modern equivalent, but original spec likely differed.

Apex Seal Wear:

A common concern with rotary engines is apex seal wear, which can lead to loss of compression, poor starting, and reduced performance. Regular maintenance and proper engine operation are key.

Oil Consumption:

Rotary engines are designed to consume a small amount of oil to lubricate apex seals. Excessive consumption indicates potential seal issues.

Cooling System Maintenance:

The cooling system is critical for rotary engines. Overheating can cause significant damage. Regular flushes and attention to radiator, hoses, and thermostat are vital.

📚 Vehicle History

Mazda Rotary Legacy:

Mazda's commitment to the rotary engine, starting with the Cosmo and RX-7 (SA/FB), established its unique engineering identity. The FC generation continued this lineage, refining the rotary concept for performance and everyday usability.

Fc Generation Introduction:

The second-generation RX-7 (FC) was introduced in 1985 for the 1986 model year, replacing the original SA/FB RX-7. It featured a more modern, aerodynamically refined design, inspired by the Porsche 944.

1991-1992 Facelift:

The 1991-1992 models represent the later years of the FC generation, likely incorporating subtle updates and refinements from earlier production.

Production Period Fc:

1985-1992

Manufacturing Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Car And Driver Ten Best:

The FC RX-7, particularly the Turbo II, was recognized on Car and Driver's 'Ten Best' list multiple times during its production run, highlighting its performance and handling merits.

Sport Car International Rankings:

Often featured in contemporary automotive journalism for its driving dynamics and rotary engine character.