Vehicle Segment:
Compact Sports Car
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts seeking performance, handling, and a unique rotary engine experience.
Competitors:
Datsun Z-cars (240Z/260Z/280Z), Toyota Celica Supra, Porsche 924, Fiat X1/9
Rotary Engine:
Smooth operation, high power-to-weight ratio, unique driving feel.
Handling:
Excellent weight distribution, sophisticated suspension design, praised for its agility.
Design:
Classic, timeless styling with a long hood and short deck proportion.
Utility For Owners:
Essential for diagnosing and repairing the unique rotary engine, maintaining optimal performance, and preserving the vehicle's value.
Utility For Professionals:
Provides factory-accurate procedures and specifications for efficient and correct repairs, especially for the specialized rotary engine.
Powertrain:
Engine (Rotary 12A), Fuel System (Carburetor), Ignition System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Driveline
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (Front Disc, Rear Drum), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, Lighting, Instruments, Charging System, Starting System, Accessories
Body And Interior:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Upholstery, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning)
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Carburetor Rebuild, Transmission Repair, Suspension Overhaul, Brake System Repair, Electrical Component Replacement
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting Guides, Symptom-Based Diagnosis, Component Testing
Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Test Data, Component Tolerances
Depth:
Expert-level detail for professional technicians and serious DIY enthusiasts; covers diagnostic procedures, component removal/installation, and detailed rebuilds.
Engine Type:
Mazda Wankel Rotary
Displacement Equivalent:
1146 cc (Rotary engine displacement is calculated differently)
Rotor Housing Design:
Two-rotor
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 100-135 hp (depending on year and emissions controls)
Torque Range:
Approx. 110-125 lb-ft
Carburetor Type:
Hitachi Twin-Choke Downdraft (e.g., DCH-333 for 1979-1980 models)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Oil Type:
API SF or SG, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (refer to manual for specific temperature ranges)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.0 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter
Ignition Type:
Distributor-based electronic ignition (CDI - Capacitor Discharge Ignition in some models)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Manual Gear Ratios:
Refer to specific model year in manual (e.g., 3.60:1 1st gear, 1.95:1 2nd, 1.30:1 3rd, 1.00:1 4th, 3.44:1 Reverse)
Automatic Features:
Torque converter, lock-up clutch (later models)
Manual Fluid:
API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 gear oil
Automatic Fluid:
Dexron II or equivalent
Body Style:
2-door Coupe, 2-door Fastback/Hatchback
Wheelbase:
95.3 inches (2420 mm)
Length:
163.0 inches (4140 mm)
Width:
65.4 inches (1661 mm)
Height:
51.0 inches (1295 mm)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2300-2500 lbs (1043-1134 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle data plate
NHTSA Ratings:
Not specifically rated by modern NHTSA standards; safety features were typical for the era.
Braking System:
Front ventilated disc brakes, Rear drum brakes (upgrade to disc available on later models or aftermarket)
Suspension Features:
Independent front suspension (struts), Live rear axle with Watt's linkage
Seatbelts:
Three-point retractable front seatbelts
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column
Fuel Tank:
Located rearward of the axle for better weight distribution and protection
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months (whichever comes first), use of specific rotary oil additive often recommended.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles (specific rotary spark plugs required, often two per rotor housing).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles or as needed based on conditions.
Fuel Filter Replacement:
Every 20,000-30,000 miles.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 6.0 US quarts (5.7 liters)
Apex Seal Wear:
Potential for apex seal wear leading to loss of compression and power; crucial to follow proper engine break-in and maintenance. Pre-mix of oil can aid lubrication.
Carburetor Tuning:
Carburetors require regular tuning and can be sensitive to altitude and humidity changes. Rebuild kits are available.
Thermal Management:
Rotary engines generate significant heat; proper cooling system maintenance is vital to prevent overheating.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines inherently consume a small amount of oil for lubrication of the seals, but excessive consumption indicates a problem.
Mazda Rotary Development:
Mazda's pioneering and persistent development of the Wankel rotary engine, starting with the Cosmo Sport.
Rx-7 Introduction:
Launched globally in 1978 as the RX-7 (preceding the US market introduction in 1979), succeeding the RX-3.
Design Influences:
Influenced by sports car designs of the era, particularly the Porsche 924, and earlier Mazda rotary coupes.
Facelifts And Updates:
Minor styling updates and mechanical improvements occurred throughout the SA22C's production run, leading into the FB generation.
Production Years:
1978-1985 (First Generation)
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
