Market Position:
The RX-2 (Capella Rotary) and RX-3 (Savanna Rotary) represented Mazda's bold early foray into rotary-powered performance vehicles for the mass market, targeting enthusiasts and those seeking a unique driving experience.
Competitors:
Competed with a range of Japanese and European compact and sports cars of the era, offering a distinct technical advantage with its rotary engine. Key rivals included Datsun (Nissan) Z-cars, Toyota Celica, and European coupes like the Ford Capri and Alfa Romeo GT.
Engine Technology:
The defining feature was the Wankel rotary engine, known for its smooth operation, high RPM capability, and compact size relative to its power output.
Design Styling:
Characterized by distinctive Japanese design of the 1970s, featuring clean lines, often with coupe or sedan body styles, and sporty accents. The RX-3 Savanna offered a particularly aggressive and sporty aesthetic.
Covered Years:
1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978
Covered Models:
Mazda RX-2 (Capella Rotary), Mazda RX-3 (Savanna Rotary)
Page Count:
Estimated 800-1200+ pages (typical for factory service manuals of this era, actual provided count not specified)
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual
Language:
English (Primary, likely original Japanese with translations)
Format:
Digital (PDF, likely scanned from original print, searchability varies)
Engine:
Rotary Engine (12A), lubrication, cooling, fuel delivery, ignition, emission control systems
Transmission:
Manual transmissions (4-speed, 5-speed), Automatic transmission (optional), clutch operation, driveline
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake
Suspension Steering:
Front independent suspension (struts, control arms), rear leaf springs (RX-2, early RX-3), rear solid axle (later RX-3), steering gearbox, power steering (if equipped)
Electrical:
Charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, lighting, wipers, instrumentation, wiring diagrams
Body Chassis:
Body construction, panels, doors, windows, interior trim, chassis components
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug inspection/replacement, fluid checks
Repair:
Engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, brake caliper/cylinder replacement, suspension component replacement, electrical component diagnosis and repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearance measurements, timing settings, fluid capacities, electrical resistance values
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from basic adjustments to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
Two-rotor Wankel Rotary
Engine Code:
12A (various configurations)
Displacement:
1146 cc (effectively 573 cc per rotor housing, often quoted in larger terms due to volumetric efficiency)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 100-130 hp (SAE Gross), depending on year and emissions equipment.
Torque Range:
Approximately 105-120 lb-ft (SAE Gross), depending on configuration.
Fuel Delivery:
Two downdraft carburetors (e.g., Hitachi SH215 for RX-2, Solex twin-choke for RX-3 variants). Later models may have incorporated rudimentary fuel injection or more advanced carburetion.
Ignition System:
Distributor-based, points and condenser ignition; later models transitioned to electronic ignition. Specific timing advance curves and dwell settings are crucial.
Cooling System:
Water-cooled, thermosiphon and pump-assisted circulation. Radiator and water pump are critical components. Proper coolant mixture is vital.
Lubrication System:
Integrated oil sump with specialized requirements for rotary apex seal lubrication. Often featured an oil injection system for the engine's internal seals.
Wheelbase:
Varies by body style: RX-2 Coupe (approx. 97.0 in), RX-2 Sedan (approx. 97.0 in), RX-3 Coupe/Sedan (approx. 95.0 - 97.0 in), RX-3 Wagon (approx. 95.0 in)
Overall Length:
Varies by body style: Approx. 165-170 in for RX-2, Approx. 160-165 in for RX-3 Coupe/Sedan, Approx. 160 in for RX-3 Wagon
Width:
Approx. 64-65 inches
Height:
Approx. 51-53 inches for coupes, slightly more for sedans and wagons
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2200-2500 lbs, depending on body style and equipment.
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not commonly specified in enthusiast circles, but essential for load calculations.
Crash Test Data:
No standardized crash test data (like NHTSA or IIHS) available for this era. Safety features were rudimentary by modern standards.
Braking System:
Front disc, rear drum. ABS was not available. Brake bias adjustment might be present on performance variants.
Steering System:
Recirculating ball steering. Power steering was an option on some models.
Seat Belts:
Lap belts or three-point retractable belts depending on seat and model year. Shoulder belts often integrated with lap belts.
Headrests:
Often integrated into the seat back, or removable units.
Body Construction:
Unitary construction with reinforced safety cage elements. Limited crumple zones by modern standards.
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM radio, often with a single speaker. Cassette players were an option on later models.
Instrumentation:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, coolant temperature, and oil pressure. Warning lights for various systems.
Traction Control:
Not available.
Bluetooth:
Not available.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 6 months. Engine oil type and viscosity are critical for rotary longevity.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles or as needed based on operating conditions.
Spark Plug Inspection Replacement:
Inspect every 10,000 miles, replace every 20,000-30,000 miles (specialized rotary spark plugs required, often platinum tipped).
Engine Oil Type:
API SE/SF or equivalent. Viscosity often 10W-30 or 20W-50 depending on climate and engine condition. Specific rotary-specific oils with appropriate anti-wear additives are recommended.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Check for original specifications for specific coolant types used.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 gear oil, viscosity typically 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Dexron-III or equivalent automatic transmission fluid (ATF).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Apex Seal Wear:
The most critical wear component. Symptoms include loss of compression, poor starting, increased oil consumption, and rough running. Regular lubrication and proper warm-up/cool-down are essential.
Carburetor Issues:
Aging diaphragms, clogged jets, and vacuum leaks are common. Rebuilding or replacing carburetors is often necessary for optimal performance.
Rotor Housing Corrosion:
Internal corrosion or wear on rotor housings can lead to compression loss. Proper coolant maintenance is crucial to prevent this.
Electrical Gremlins:
As with any vehicle of this age, aging wiring harnesses, corroded connectors, and failing switches can cause intermittent electrical problems.
Rotary Pioneering:
Mazda's commitment to the Wankel rotary engine started with the Cosmo Sport (1967) and continued aggressively with the Capella Rotary (RX-2) and Savanna Rotary (RX-3), establishing the brand's identity in performance and innovation.
Rx2 Lineage:
Based on the Mazda Capella platform, the RX-2 offered the rotary engine as a premium option, providing a unique smooth power delivery and high-revving character.
Rx3 Lineage:
The RX-3 (Savanna) was built on a shorter wheelbase, offered a sportier design, and became a popular platform for racing and performance tuning. It was positioned as Mazda's entry-level rotary sports car.
Production Years:
RX-2: 1970-1978 (overlapping with RX-3 and RX-4). RX-3: 1971-1978.
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
Rotary Racing Success:
While specific 'awards' for the RX-2/RX-3 themselves are rare, their rotary engines powered numerous successful race cars, solidifying Mazda's performance reputation in motorsport.
Design Awards:
Models like the Capella (RX-2) received design accolades for their modern styling in their respective markets.
Emission Standards:
Complied with the emission standards of the period, which were less stringent than today's. The manual would detail specific emission control system maintenance procedures.
