Chassis Codes:
S102A, S102B, S103A, S103B, S124A, S124B
Generations:
First Generation (1971-1978)
Production Years Covered By Manual:
1970-1978
Market Position:
The Mazda RX-3 was a compact sports car positioned to offer performance and unique rotary engine technology to a segment seeking sporty styling and a distinct driving experience, often competing with other small sporty coupes and sedans of its era.
Competitive Analysis:
Competed with vehicles like the Toyota Corolla Levin/Sprinter Trueno, Datsun (Nissan) 240Z/260Z, and various European compact sports cars, differentiating itself with its Wankel rotary engine and stylish coupe/sedan body styles.
Key Features Of Vehicle:
Rotary engine (Wankel) providing a smooth and high-revving power delivery, distinctive styling, rear-wheel drive, available in coupe, sedan, and station wagon body styles.
Manual Value Proposition:
Empowers owners and technicians to perform comprehensive maintenance and repairs, saving on labor costs and ensuring quality service, ultimately enhancing the longevity and performance of the classic RX-3.
Primary User:
Primarily mechanical technicians familiar with BRP (Mazda's internal component classification) products and general automobile practices, but also beneficial for knowledgeable owners.
Coverage Areas:
Comprehensive repair and overhaul of Mazda RX-3 vehicles from 1970-1978, including proprietary components.
Page Count:
Not specified in product information, but implied to be extensive for workshop service.
Manual Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Information Reliability:
The manual is stated to provide the most reliable information and aims to help users get the best value from their vehicle, reflecting dealer-level service data.
Systems Covered:
Engine (Rotary), Fuel System, Ignition System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Electrical System, Bodywork, Transmission (including disassembly and overhaul).
Procedures Included:
Routine maintenance, servicing, diagnostic procedures, repair procedures, removal and installation, assembly and disassembly, tune-ups, troubleshooting.
Technical Depth:
Detailed repair and overhaul procedures, including extensive engine and transmission work, emphasizing special aspects of the product. Assumes technician familiarity with general automobile practices and BRP (likely meaning 'Brake, Rotor, and Planetary' or similar internal Mazda terminology for component groups) product service procedures.
Emphasis On Proprietary Components:
The manual includes instructions for components manufactured for the RX-3, and importantly, incorporates instructions from respective component manufacturers for proprietary parts, offering a holistic repair approach.
Warning Notation:
The manual utilizes specific notations for safety and critical information, including WARNING, CAUTION, and NOTE, to guide technicians and owners through procedures safely and effectively.
Engine Type:
Rotary (Wankel)
Engine Code Family:
Mazda Rotary (e.g., 10A, 12A)
Typical Displacement Cc:
Approx. 993cc (10A) to 1146cc (12A) - calculated from rotor displacement, often quoted with effective displacement in liters.
Typical Horsepower:
Varies by year and market, typically ranging from 90 hp to 110 hp for base models and higher for performance variants (e.g., RX-3 GT).
Typical Torque Lb-Ft:
Varies by year and market, typically in the range of 90-100 lb-ft.
Fuel Delivery:
Carbureted (e.g., Hitachi, Mikuni dual downdraft carburetors for most models; some later or performance models might have variations).
Maintenance Considerations
Apex Seal Life:
Critical maintenance item; requires understanding of proper warm-up/cool-down procedures and engine load management. Manual provides guidance on inspection and potential replacement.
Oil Consumption:
Rotary engines inherently consume a small amount of oil for lubrication of apex seals. Manual details correct procedures for monitoring and topping up.
Rotor Type:
Triangular rotor with apex, side, and corner seals.
Transmission Type:
4-speed Manual Transmission
Optional Transmission:
3-speed Automatic Transmission (less common)
Drive Layout:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Manual: GL-4 gear oil (specific viscosity like SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 often recommended). Automatic: DEXRON III or equivalent.
Gear Ratios:
Specific ratios vary by model and year; manual provides detailed ratios for all gears and final drive.
Length:
Approx. 4,035 mm (158.9 in)
Width:
Approx. 1,600 mm (63.0 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,325 mm (52.2 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2,300 mm (90.6 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 950-1050 kg (2094-2315 lbs), depending on body style and equipment.
Safety Ratings:
No formal crash test ratings from modern agencies (NHTSA, IIHS) are available for this era. Safety features were basic by today's standards.
Active Safety Features:
Front Disc Brakes, Rear Drum Brakes, Power Assist Brakes (optional or standard on some trims).
Passive Safety Features:
Lap and Shoulder Seatbelts (front), Padded Dashboard, Safety Glass.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles (5,000 km) or 3-6 months, whichever comes first. Manual will specify exact intervals.
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plug inspection/replacement and ignition timing adjustments recommended at intervals like 12,000-15,000 miles (20,000-24,000 km). Manual provides detailed procedures.
Filter Replacement:
Air filter, fuel filter, and oil filter replacement should follow manufacturer recommendations, typically coinciding with oil changes or tune-ups. Manual lists part numbers.
Engine Oil Type:
API SF or SG classification, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 typically recommended, with specific rotary engine oil additives may be advisable. Manual will specify exact grade and capacity.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze mixed with distilled water (50/50 ratio). Manual specifies capacity and type.
Common Issues:
Apex seal wear, rotor housing wear, carburetor tuning difficulties, electrical system aging, coolant seal failures, exhaust system corrosion. Manual provides troubleshooting for these.
Special Tools:
Manual references specific Mazda RX-3 special tools (identified by part numbers) for certain adjustments and repairs, such as rotor housing alignment tools or specialized seal compressors.
Torque Specifications:
Essential for engine rebuilds, suspension work, and body assembly. Manual provides precise torque values for all fasteners, crucial for preventing damage and ensuring proper function.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approximately 4.5 - 5.5 liters (4.7 - 5.8 US quarts), including oil cooler. Manual specifies exact capacity.
Transmission Oil Capacity:
Approximately 1.5 - 2.0 liters for manual, and slightly more for automatic. Manual provides precise figures.
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 5.0 - 6.0 liters. Manual specifies exact capacity.
Brand Heritage:
Mazda has a long history of innovation, particularly with its development and popularization of the Wankel rotary engine, which became a hallmark of the brand.
Model Evolution:
The RX-3 (initially called the 'Mazda Savanna' in Japan) was part of Mazda's early success with rotary engines, following the RX-2. It was designed as a sporty and compact alternative to larger sedans, offering accessible performance and stylish design.
Production Location:
Japan
Production Years Vehicle:
1971-1978
