🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

RX2

Generation:

First Generation (pre-facelift)

Chassis Codes:

AP17

Body Styles:

2-door Coupe, 4-door Sedan

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Mazda RX2 was a pivotal model for Mazda, establishing the brand's reputation for innovative rotary engine technology in a stylish, compact package. It competed in the sporty compact segment against vehicles like the Toyota Corolla Levin/Sprinter Trueno and Datsun (Nissan) 1200/1600.

Competitive Analysis:

Offered a unique selling proposition with its smooth-revving, high-revving rotary engine, providing a distinct driving experience compared to conventional piston engines. This manual addresses the specific maintenance and repair needs of this unique powertrain.

Key Features:

Rotary engine technology, distinctive styling, nimble handling, sporty performance for its era.

📋 Manual Details

Applicable Years:

1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1978

Type:

Workshop Service Manual (WSM)

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (likely PDF, though physical reproduction is common for vintage manuals)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Rotary engine theory, disassembly, assembly, lubrication, cooling, ignition, fuel, exhaust, emissions control

Drivetrain Systems:

Clutch, manual transmission, driveshaft, rear axle assembly, differentials

Suspension Steering:

Front suspension (struts, control arms, bushings), rear suspension (leaf springs, shock absorbers), steering gear, power steering system (if equipped)

Braking Systems:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, instrumentation, ignition switch, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays

Body Chassis:

Body panel removal/installation, frame, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, bumpers, corrosion protection

Heating Ventilation Ac:

HVAC system operation, heater core, blower motor, ducting (AC likely optional/dealer installed)

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug indexing/replacement, coolant flushes, belt tensioning, brake adjustments, lubrication points

Diagnostics:

Troubleshooting engine performance issues (e.g., apex seal wear, carburation problems), electrical fault finding, brake noise diagnosis, suspension component wear

Repair Rebuild:

Engine rebuild procedures (rotary specific), transmission overhaul, brake caliper/wheel cylinder servicing, starter/alternator replacement, suspension component replacement

Special Tools:

Identification and usage of specialized tools required for rotary engine maintenance and repair

Depth:

Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and skilled DIY enthusiasts. Covers detailed disassembly, reassembly, and calibration procedures.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

Likely PDF, optimized for digital viewing and printing. Searchable text functionality is a common feature for well-converted manuals.

Print Quality:

High resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of diagrams and text.

Binding Type:

N/A (for digital format). If a physical reproduction, typically spiral-bound or comb-bound for lay-flat usability.

Paper Type:

N/A (for digital format). Original manuals were typically printed on durable paper stock.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Rotary (Wankel)

Engine Model:

12A

Engine Displacement Cc:

1146 cc (equivalent displacement for taxation purposes)

Engine Description:

Two-rotor, naturally aspirated, peripheral port or side exhaust port configurations depending on year/market.

Horsepower Gross Ps:

Approx. 110-120 PS (varies by market and emissions regulations)

Torque Gross Lb Ft:

Approx. 110-125 lb-ft (varies)

Carburetion:

Twin-choke downdraft carburetor (e.g., Hitachi/Weber type)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (octane rating appropriate for the era, likely 91 RON or higher recommended)

Oil System:

Pressurized lubrication system with integrated oil cooler. Premixing of oil with fuel for apex seal lubrication is NOT standard on the 12A from the factory; it uses a separate oil injection system.

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-speed manual transmission

Transmission Type:

3-speed automatic transmission (less common, often designated with an 'A' suffix, e.g., RX2 Deluxe Auto)

Clutch Type:

Dry, single-plate diaphragm spring clutch

Manual Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios will be detailed in the manual, typically varying slightly between coupe and sedan models.

📐 Dimensions

Length Mm:

Coupe: ~4120 mm, Sedan: ~4125 mm

Width Mm:

Coupe/Sedan: ~1600 mm

Height Mm:

Coupe: ~1345 mm, Sedan: ~1385 mm

Wheelbase Mm:

~2315 mm

Curb Weight Kg:

Coupe: ~1000-1050 kg, Sedan: ~1030-1080 kg (varies with equipment)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg:

Approximately 1400-1450 kg

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4x110 mm

Tire Sizes:

Commonly 165/80 R13 or 175/70 R13

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings Era:

Vehicles from this era were not subject to modern crash test standards (like NHTSA or Euro NCAP) with comparable stringency. Safety features were basic.

Active Safety Features:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, dual-circuit braking system. ABS was not available.

Passive Safety Features:

Lap belts (front), unpadded dashboard, basic body structure. Some later models may have offered optional headrests.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio, possibly with a cassette player in later models or as an aftermarket addition. Speaker count typically 2 or 4.

Driver Assistance Features:

None by modern standards. Focus was on mechanical driver control.

Connectivity Features:

No external connectivity or Bluetooth. All functions are mechanical or analog.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 5,000 km or 3 months (whichever comes first). Refer to manual for specific oil type and viscosity.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 10,000 km or 6 months.

Spark Plug Service:

Inspect every 10,000 km, replace as needed. Specific plug types (e.g., platinum or special rotary plugs) will be listed.

Coolant Flush:

Every 2 years or 40,000 km.

Engine Oil Type:

Refer to manual. Typically API SF or SG rated oil, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 depending on climate. **Crucially, rotary engines require specific attention to lubrication, including potential for oil consumption.**

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity approx. 5-6 liters.

Transmission Fluid Type:

GL-4 Gear Oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90. Capacity approx. 1.5-2.0 liters.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Known Issues:

Apex seal wear (leading to low compression, poor starting, smoking), oil seal wear, eccentric shaft seal leaks, carburetor tuning difficulties, carbon build-up in the combustion chambers, ignition system reliability, chassis rust.

Rotary Specific Maintenance:

Regular checks for oil consumption and compression are vital. The manual will detail procedures for compression testing and the importance of engine oil quality and level.

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mazda's commitment to rotary engines began with the Cosmo and continued with models like the R100 and RX2, establishing a unique identity in the automotive world.

Model Evolution:

The RX2 (chassis code AP17) was introduced in Japan in 1970 and was also sold in export markets. It represented a step up in size and refinement from the R100. Minor styling updates and mechanical improvements occurred throughout its production run.

Production Years:

1970-1978

Production Location:

Japan

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Recognitions:

While the RX2 itself may not have specific individual awards widely publicized, it was instrumental in cementing Mazda's reputation as a leader in rotary engine technology, paving the way for future award-winning models like the RX-7.